Board Games: More Than Just Fun!

Board games have been around for ages, and lately, researchers are finding out they're great for our brains. In Spain, a study from several universities showed that playing board games in class helps kids learn better than traditional teaching methods. Another study in Chile found that board games boosted kids' number skills. Why are board games so good for us? Well, learning the rules and playing them helps us think in new ways. And games often have repetitive parts that make skills stick. But board games aren't just good for our brains. They're also great for making friends and feeling good. Just look at board game cafes and game therapists popping up everywhere! Adam Davis runs a nonprofit called Game to Grow. He uses games to help people feel better and connect with others. Games can help us deal with frustration, think flexibly, and even handle unexpected things. Anthony Bean, who runs Geek Therapeutics, says board games can improve memory, solve problems, and even help with stress. Plus, they can help us be patient and adaptable. Board games can help people who are neurodiverse too. A study from the University of Plymouth found that board games help autistic teens and adults build skills and independence. Board games have clear rules, which can be a break from the unsaid rules of daily life. But it's not just about playing any game. The game and the person leading it make a big difference. A good leader can help people get the most out of the game. And different games help with different skills. Chess can help with critical thinking, while Pandemic helps with working together. Dungeons & Dragons can even help with creativity and empathy. Board games are more than just a fun activity. They can help us learn, feel better, and connect with others. So next time you're playing a board game, remember it's doing more for you than you might think!