Best Educational Games For Preschoolers
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Did you know that play is a child’s natural way of learning? Do not underestimate its benefits – it is a great tool for a child's cognitive, social and emotional growth.
One study done at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has established that children with high use of imaginative play are more problem-solving and more creative.
It is a good way of proactively imparting such skills as problem solving, creative thinking and social skills in young children.
Do you recall that happy moment your kid successfully completes a puzzle, constructs a tall tower, or goes on a superhero crusade? Those laughing and cracking are not just creative but foundational to education throughout one’s life.
Why Educational Games Matter
Educational games are designed to promote cognitive development, social-emotional development, and language and literacy skills in young children. By playing these games, preschoolers can:
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Enhance cognitive skills: Improve problem-solving, critical thinking, and memory. According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, play-based learning can increase a child's IQ by up to 17 points.
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Develop social skills: Learn to cooperate, share, and communicate effectively. Social interaction through play helps children develop empathy, understanding, and conflict-resolution skills. Research shows that children who engage in frequent social play are more likely to have stronger friendships and better social adjustment in school.
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Boost emotional intelligence: Cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and self-regulation. Play allows children to explore their emotions and learn how to manage them in healthy ways. Studies have found a strong correlation between play-based learning and the development of emotional intelligence, which is crucial for success in both academic and social settings.
Cognitive Development Games
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Puzzles:
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For toddlers (1-2 years): Cartoon-style flat puzzles with large and bright images to match.
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For preschoolers (3-4 years): Matching various 4-10 pieces of jigsaw puzzles.
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For kindergarteners (5-6 years): Even more complex puzzles that include jigsaw puzzles having between 10 and 24 pieces.
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Building Blocks:
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Benefits: Creativity, or thinking skills and aesthetic or perceptual ability, including ability to appreciate forms/structures.
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Recommendations: Wooden blocks, magnetic playful tiles and LEGO Duplo.
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Board Games:
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Benefits: Promotion, shifting and ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures.
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Recommendations: Filk games such as CandyLand and Chutes as well as Ladders.
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Social-Emotional Development Games
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Role-Playing Games:
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Benefits: Empathy, communication, and imagination.
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Recommendations: Dress-up clothes, dolls, and play sets.
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Cooperative Games:
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Benefits: Teamwork, sharing, and problem-solving.
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Recommendations: Card games, board games, and group activities.
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Sensory Play:
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Benefits: Sensory exploration, calming, and focus.
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Recommendations: Playdough, water play, and sensory bins.
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Language and Literacy Games
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Alphabet Games:
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Benefits: Letter recognition, phonics, and word building.
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Recommendations: Magnetic letters, alphabet puzzles, and letter-sound games.
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Storytelling Games:
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Benefits: Imagination, vocabulary, and sequencing.
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Recommendations: Storybooks, puppets, and storytelling prompts.
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Word Games:
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Benefits: Vocabulary, spelling, and language skills.
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Recommendations: Word games like Scrabble Junior and Boggle Junior.
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How to Incorporate Educational Games into Daily Routines
To maximize the benefits of educational games, consider incorporating them into your child's daily routine. Here are a few tips:
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Set aside dedicated play time: Schedule regular play sessions to ensure consistent learning.
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Choose age-appropriate games: Choose games based on the developmental stage of your child.
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Play together: Join your child in play to foster bonding and learning.
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Create a stimulating environment: Provide a variety of toys, games, and books to encourage exploration.
Best Educational Games App for Preschoolers
In today's digital age, technology can be a powerful tool for early childhood education.Zape Learning is a best educational app that offers a wide range of engaging and Educational games for preschoolers designed to stimulate young minds. With interactive activities, captivating visuals, and a user-friendly interface, Zape provides a fun and effective way to learn. By incorporating Zape into your child's routine, you can supplement traditional play and enhance their learning experience.
How to Balance Screen Time for Kids:
While digital games can be beneficial, it's essential to balance screen time with traditional play. Here are some strategies to minimize screen time and maximize the benefits of digital games:
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Set Screen Time Limits: Clearly define and adhere to screen time rules.
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Choose High-Quality Apps: Opt for educational apps such as Zape Learning app that are age-appropriate and offer interactive learning experiences.
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Co-View with Your Child: Watch and play games together to guide your child's learning and provide opportunities for discussion.
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Take Screen Breaks: Encourage regular breaks from screens to engage in physical activity and creative play.
Technological tools such as Zape help you to establish the creativity, interest and fun in learning through incorporating a play based learning and development approach to learning with your child. Therefore, let’s commit our children to playing now and most importantly observe how they grow!
What are your favorite educational games for preschoolers? Submit feedback below with your thoughts and recommendations.
