Eductational Games

[Billy_J]

So far as computer learning in general, I think it is really good! That is because the kid gets "instant feedback" with wrong answers. They can quickly learn. And if it forces you to find the correct answer before it will allow you to proceed, then you WILL learn to fully understand things before proceeding.

Contrast that with homework or tests on paper given to a teacher. It may be the next day or several days later that the kid gets the graded paper back and then sees what was wrong. With this I think kids are more likely to repeat the same mistakes over and over.

[springfieldva]

Almost all games teach them something - taking turns, colors, counting, strategy.

My kids like taking a stack of Trivial Pursuit cards and quizzing each other (and us) with them.

They learned their states and capitals by putting together a talking puzzle - repeatedly. I swear I can still hear that thing.

[SuburbOfMemphisTN]

Originally Posted by bootandy

What are your thoughts on Education Games (so called 'Edutainment')?

I worry that either they wont be educational or that the kids will see through it and that it wont be a 'fun' game.

Does anyone use educational games - can anyone recommend any for younger children? (Either physical ones or ipad-apps).

^^ My children have video games, some are racing or taking care of pets, which are more fun than learning, but they also enjoy playing games that are educational as well. When they have computer time, the younger is only allowed on a handful of websites(the older has a bit more freedom) most are fun games, such as; www.yourchildlearns.com (it has K thru 6th grade, I think)has been one she has really been enjoying recently since they are learning/memorizing the states and capitals. There are different interactive maps and games for all subjects. These repetitive games allow it to "sink in" in a fun way.
My daughter's teacher at school teaches using a lot of songs and hand motions in her teaching....they memorize the songs(having fun) while they are really learning the information needed.
Yes, both kids have time to just play...but why not add some extra learning (weather it be for school or life) while having fun!!

[ChrisFromChicago]

Almost all games can be educational, to a certain extent. My son loves Bad pigs

[springfieldva]

Mad Libs are fun, too.