Families with young children are accustomed to having their children come home from school, eat a big lunch and then take a nap. Your feisty baby has been up all night and is bored.
Does this circumstance ring a bell? Do you think a lot about how to deal with him or her in a positive way?
Here are some tips and techniques to help young people focus on their work and encourage their cognitive development. What better way to foster the bond between parents and children than playing games that stimulate the child’s brain?
It is abundantly obvious from a well-known comment from the esteemed educator Maria Monterssori that when kids are encouraged to look around them, “making use of all that he finds around him, molds himself for the future.” As a result, we discover that engaging in activities that let kids use their senses helps them further develop and promote a more distinct logical and analytical justification.
Early experiences affect the way a child’s brain develops, whether they are positive or negative.Although every child is born with their own uniqueness, environmental influences can also have a significant impact on how a child’s brain develops. What we know about the nature vs. nurture debate is that while genes are inherited, environmental variables have an impact on how people grow cognitively. It is now known that intelligence is a product of a mix of nature and nurture.
It is ideal for parents and teachers to promote aspects of nature and nurture at home as well as at school for the best possible brain development.
The brain of a child develops more quickly between birth and age 5 than at any other point in life. Many crucial, higher-level skills, like motivation, self-control, problem solving, and communication, require connections that are either developed during these early years or not at all.
Even if memory is not entirely formed during infancy, the early years of childhood (from birth to age 8) are crucial for acquiring and developing memory. Understanding memory growth offers a fresh approach to making plans for your day.
Here are some of the best games and activities that I have successfully utilized both at home and in school to support and boost cognitive development, drawing on my personal experience as a parent of a 14-year-old and a preschool teacher for the past ten years.
Blocks – Construct it!
Children aged 2 to 4 are best suited to this game.
Since the dawn of time, blocks have been the most fundamental brain activities for children and have remained a staple in the “toy-sphere”—and there’s a solid reason for that.
Ways to Play-
Just introduce your toddler to blocks in a variety of colors and sizes. Give your kid free rein to explore the blocks and use their creativity.
Your child’s growth is exposed in all areas, including creativity, spatial awareness, form and color identification, and much more.
For younger children, you can start with simple color and form blocks, and for older kids, you can move up to Legos or other types of abstract construction blocks.
Use blocks to make simple patterns, then have your toddler try to imitate them. Blocks have been the most basic brain game for kids since birth.
I spy games – I spy… children’s mind games
Children aged 5 to 12 are best suited to this game
Scavenger hunts and classic games like “I Spy with My Little Eye,” “Rahul Says,” and “I Spy…” are enjoyable ways to exercise your brain.
It is proven that children who play these games for brain development are better at paying attention, following directions, improving their language skills, and possessing a greater sense of spatial awareness. Children (and adults!) love “Where’s Waldo” books because they help develop your child’s cognitive systems by teaching them how to search for a specific object in a chaotic environment.
Scavenger hunts are easy to customize, and they can keep kids occupied for hours.
WHAT IS MISPLACED? / Memory Recall (Visual, Auditory, Tactile)
Put a tray with various household goods on it (the more items, the more challenging the game so for younger children start with just 3-4 items and increase from there).
Tell your child to examine the items on the tray in detail. Call them all by name (the more you discuss the items the more likely your child is to remember them so you could ask them what color or shape (Each item is or serves a specific purpose).Wrap the objects with a towel. As they do so, take one thing out from under the cover while asking your child to close their eyes. Ask them to open their eyes, take off the cloth, and describe the missing item for you! Alternatively, request a list of the things.
For those who learn best visually, this game helps to stimulate visual memory. For auditory learners, it can be changed so that you name the objects or words instead of having them displayed. The student must pay close attention while listening and recall as (in the same order to make it more challenging).
By passing objects (in each hand) around a circle and feeling each one, agreeing on a common name, then recalling and listing all the objects, it can be customized for kinesthetic learners.
Puzzle Your Brain to Keep It Busy!
Children aged 2 to 8 are best suited to this game
The whole family can have fun with puzzles! Puzzles are fantastic brain-training activities because they are an excellent method to help your child improve their spatial awareness, coordination, problem-solving, cognitive, and fine motor skills.
For younger children, there are tangrams and board games to pick from, and older kids (and adults) can enjoy Scrabble, Sudoku, crossword puzzles, logic games, and even Rubik’s cubes! Puzzles are guaranteed brain teasers at any age!
Idea for a homemade puzzle: Arrange popsicle sticks in a row and attach copies of family photos to the sticks. Cut between the popsicle sticks with a cutter.
A Memory Game
A traditional game involves matching graphic cards. It is a memory-based game, and the person with the most pairs of cards and the ability to recollect where the cards are is the winner.
We started playing memory games when my kid was two years old because she was already pretty familiar with ideas like animals and their young and animals and their habitats. We would place the cards with the animal images turned upside down on one side. Pictures of animal habitats, young animals, and food choice cards would be placed upside down on the opposite side. She had to remember the card she picked during her turn as well as mine in order to find the appropriate pair. What a wonderful approach to improve recall and memory!
Later, this was expanded to include other ideas as well, including constructive behaviors, related items, etc. It’s simple to play a memory match game in preschool as well.
Video games have always been a medium for immersive storytelling and character development. From the heroic protagonists to the ruthless villains, video game characters can leave a lasting impact on players. However, some characters in video games have stirred up controversy due to their controversial personalities, actions, and representations. These characters can range from anti-heroes to outright villains, and their controversial nature can spark discussions and debates among players and the gaming community. In this blog, we will explore some of the most controversial video game characters of all time, their impact on the gaming industry, and why they continue to be a topic of discussion among gamers.
The Infamous Trevor Phillips from Grand Theft Auto V
One of the most controversial characters in video game history, Trevor Phillips is a playable character in Grand Theft Auto V. Known for his violent tendencies and unstable personality, Trevor has been criticized for glorifying sociopathic behaviour. His unpredictable nature and willingness to engage in morally reprehensible acts have made him a polarizing figure among gamers.
The Sexualized Representation of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider
Lara Croft, the iconic protagonist of the Tomb Raider series, has been subject to controversy due to her hyper-sexualized depiction in earlier games. Critics have argued that her portrayal reinforces negative stereotypes of women in gaming and objectifies female characters. While newer iterations of the series have attempted to address these issues, Lara Croft’s sexualization remains a topic of discussion.
Examining the issue of racial stereotyping in the depiction of Barret Wallace in Final Fantasy VII
Barret Wallace, a playable character in Final Fantasy VII, has been criticized for his stereotypical portrayal of African-American characters. His use of slang and aggressive demeanour have been seen as perpetuating negative stereotypes of black people in gaming. While the game has been praised for its overall story and gameplay, Barret’s representation continues to be a source of controversy.
The Transphobic Depiction of Poison in Street Fighter
Poison, a character in the Street Fighter series, has been criticized for her transphobic portrayal. Originally designed as a female character, Poison was later revealed to be transgender in some versions of the game. Her depiction as a sexualized, violent character has been seen as perpetuating negative stereotypes of transgender individuals.
The Ethnic Stereotyping of CJ in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
CJ, the protagonist of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, has been criticized for his stereotypical portrayal of African-American characters. His use of slang and association with gang culture have been seen as perpetuating negative stereotypes of black people in gaming. While the game has been praised for its overall story and gameplay, CJ’s representation continues to be a source of controversy.
The Ableist Portrayal of Isaac Clarke in Dead Space
Isaac Clarke, the protagonist of the Dead Space series, has been criticized for his ableist portrayal. His use of a suit to augment his physical abilities has been seen as perpetuating negative stereotypes of individuals with disabilities. Additionally, his struggles with mental health have been criticized for reinforcing negative stereotypes of people with mental illnesses.
The Sexualization of Quiet in Metal Gear Solid V
Quiet, a character in Metal Gear Solid V, has been criticized for her hyper-sexualized portrayal. Her near-nudity and lack of dialogue have been seen as objectifying female characters in gaming. While the game’s creators have defended her depiction as integral to the story, many gamers and critics have continued to voice their objections.
The Misogynistic Representation of Women in Duke Nukem
Duke Nukem, the protagonist of the Duke Nukem series, has been criticized for its misogynistic portrayal of women. The game’s emphasis on objectifying and sexualizing female characters has been seen as perpetuating negative stereotypes of women in gaming. While the game has been praised for its humour and gameplay, its treatment of female characters continues to be a source of controversy.
The Controversial Themes of Bioshock Infinite
Bioshock Infinite, a critically acclaimed first-person shooter, has been subject to controversy due to its themes of racism, violence, and nationalism. The game’s depiction of a city built on American exceptionalism has been seen as perpetuating harmful stereotypes and ideologies. Additionally, the game’s portrayal of violence and its use of racial slurs has been criticized for being insensitive and offensive.
The Disputed Representation of Ellie in The Last of Us Part II
Ellie, the protagonist of The Last of Us Part II, has been subject to controversy due to her representation and character development in the game. Some players have criticized the game’s portrayal of Ellie’s sexuality, while others have praised it for its representation of LGBTQ+ characters in gaming. Additionally, the game’s storyline and themes have divided players, with some criticizing its violent and bleak depiction of humanity.
The Insensitive Representation of Mental Illness in Outlast 2
Outlast 2, a horror game, has been criticised for its insensitive portrayal of mental illness. The game’s use of psychiatric patients as villains has been seen as perpetuating harmful stereotypes and stigmatising individuals with mental illnesses. Additionally, the game’s depiction of violence and gore has been criticised for being excessive and gratuitous. While the game has been praised for its horror elements and immersive storytelling, its representation of mental illness has been a source of controversy.
We are huge gamers! And, if I had to guess, I’d think that you do as well. You had to be reading this post and seeking for video game facts in your free time for a reason, right?
Among the greatest things you can do for your profession is earn a master’s degree in game development. Never has there been a more crucial time to upskill because the gaming industry is bigger and more daring than ever.Video games are overtaking movies as the most popular leisure, and it’s time to embrace this booming trend as gamers take over the entertainment industry (or just the planet).
We have 05 Shocking video gaming facts that will help you seem like an experienced and move you another step closer to enjoying all the advantages of esports, whether you’re a serious or casual gamer.Want to improve your design or development abilities for video games? Here are 5 fascinating industry statistics that motivate you to pursue postgraduate studies!
The market is currently valued over £100 billion
The worth of the worldwide games industry was $109.49 billion in 2019; since then, there has been significant increase. In less than five years, the market is expected to reach £186 billion, with a forecasted rate of growth of 9.17% from 2020 to 2025.
These days, this sector generates more revenue than the combined sectors of music and film. And it represents and over half of the whole entertainment market in the UK.
This is a terrific moment to establish your brand and portfolio if you’re looking to work in the game industry. If you develop your talents in this industry, which is predicted to grow quickly.
Gamers number 2.7 billion (and growing)
There are currently more than 2.7 billion gamers globally, according to Statista. With online driving the business forward making the industry one of the biggest growth worldwide industries, the rise is gaming is also not set to slow down.
A Master’s in Games Development helps you keep your skills current and at the vanguard of this booming industry while also positioning you for the future.
Everyone plays video games, and when Generation Z replaces millennials, these numbers will keep rising.
Not just kids play video games
The fact that playing video games is mostly an activity for adults emphasises the significance of this pastime and its influence on society. In reality, studies indicate that 70% of video game players are 18 years of age or older.
Online gaming has given rise to large communities of people and entire subcultures. With so much research now demonstrating the benefits of gaming, such as enhanced innovation and better mental health, the old belief that videogames is bad for you is also gradually losing ground.
Anime is huge right now
On a typical week, 21% of players watch anime; this is 12% more than the median consumer. Also, 30% of developers watch animation on a weekly basis.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, which was released in 2011, “has a noticeable anime influence,” continuing a long tradition of Japanese anime and games consoles being creatively inspired by one another.
Since then, the popularity of anime has increased steadily. In 2021, a non-English speaking programme won “most in request TV show of the year” for the first time ever. You probably knew that it was anime. Sports are also being influenced by anime, with the L.a. Chargers releasing an anime schedule video.
Gamers prefer to watch TV
Gamers love their superheroes when it comes to movies. With Spider-Man, X-Men, Batman, Superman, DC, and Marvel making up their top 6 most recognizable franchises, 36% of respondents identify as Marvel fans. There have been many collaborations between the two, but perhaps they haven’t used all of their potential.
Gamers prefer to view TV on their television, as do most customers, but they are 16% more likely than the typical consumer to be watching on a game console, demonstrating that these devices are used for more than just playing games.
Brands may want to consider how their digital experiences will be formatted and how well they will work with gaming consoles as opposed to smartphones or laptops in this situation.
Tetris is beneficial to your health
Tetris was found to lessen the intensity of cravings in a research. This included urges for food, drugs, and other things.
A comparable study with the same results was published in 2015. Seven times a day, groups inside the study were instructed to indicate their degrees of craving. A segment of the group had to play Tetris for a short while and provide a report on craving. The Tetris people experience a 14% decrease in desire regardless of the day.
These advantages enable people to make fewer errors while increasing their focus and reaction speeds. There is little doubt that playing video games, whether they are action games or not, has long-term benefits. This is supported by the growing body of studies.
Toys play a key role in a child’s life! They provide your child with entertainment, stimulation, and opportunities for learning and growth. However, with constant use, toys can quickly become worn and damaged, requiring maintenance and care to remain safe and functional. For this purpose, you can visit a toy store and ask queries regarding the maintenance of toys. Their professionals will give you a detailed guide on maintaining your children’s toys in perfect condition.
In this blog, you will also get a detailed guide about tips and best practices for maintaining and caring for kids’ toys. So, let’s get started!
Regular Cleaning:
Regular cleaning is a crucial aspect of toy maintenance. Dirt, grime, and bacteria can accumulate on incredibly plush and plastic toys, making them unhygienic and potentially harmful to your child’s health. Regular cleaning helps to remove any harmful substances and keeps the toys looking their best.
For plush toys, spot clean them with a damp cloth, and for plastic toys like baby bath toys, wash them with soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the toys, and always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Proper Storage:
Proper storage is vital for maintaining the longevity of your kids’ toys. However, overcrowded toy boxes or haphazard storage can result in toys becoming damaged or broken. Instead, invest in sturdy toy boxes or storage containers to keep toys organised and protected.
Avoid exposing toys to extreme temperatures or damp conditions, which can cause them to deteriorate and become damaged. Store toys in a cool, dry place and keep them away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. You will find a proper toy storage basket from a toy store that helps you organise the kids the way you want and easy access to your children to toys.
Repairing Damaged Toys:
Toys occasionally sustain damage or break, but this does not need their disposal. Many toys can be fixed, saving you money and ensuring your child continues to enjoy them.
Small tears in plush toys can be patched with a needle and thread. Broken plastic toys like kids’ watches can frequently be repaired by using plastic adhesive. Consult the maker or a reputable toy repair shop if you need help fixing a toy.
Replace Missing Pieces:
Missing pieces can render a toy useless, but they can often be replaced. Check with the manufacturer or a toy store to see if they sell replacement parts, or search online for a toy repair service to help you find what you need. This may lead you to keep the toys in good condition.
Inspect Toys Regularly:
Regular inspection of your kids’ toys ensures their safety and longevity. Check for any signs of damage or wear, such as loose parts, cracks, or fraying, and replace or repair the toys as necessary.
Discard broken or Dangerous Toys:
Toys that are broken or have become dangerous should be discarded immediately. Broken toys can pose a hazard to your child and should be removed from their reach. Dispose of broken toys properly to prevent them from becoming environmental hazards. You can contact a toy store and get information about the recycling and disposal of broken or damaged toys.
Bottom Line!
In conclusion, taking care of your kids’ toys ensures their safety and longevity. Maintenance is vital in keeping the toys in perfect condition and enjoying your child’s playtime. Regular cleaning, proper storage, repairing damaged toys, replacing missing pieces, and regularly inspecting toys are all essential steps in maintaining your kids’ toys. By following these tips, you can ensure that your kids continue to have access to safe and functional toys that will provide them with hours of fun and entertainment.
