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When Games Are More Than Just Games – What Can Children Learn from Puzzles and Board Games?
By Egils Grasmanis, Co-founder of “Brain Games”
When thinking about preschool education, it is often assumed that children are just playing games, and that this is not real learning. In reality, various types of play and games are essential resources for children to learn, acquire new knowledge, and develop important skills. There are games that train memory and logical thinking, games that strengthen communication and collaboration skills, and many more. Moreover, learning through games is an activity that children can do with teachers as well as with parents, reinforcing the knowledge gained in preschool.
Each game has its own purpose and nature, helping to develop specific skills. For example, strategy games encourage children to plan several steps ahead, assess situations, and make decisions. Puzzles and similar games help train logical thinking, analyse situations, and find solutions. Games that require teamwork or partner interaction enhance the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. Overall, games teach children the importance of following rules and guidelines. Through play, children also learn to recognize their own and others’ emotions, fostering empathy. If they don’t win a game, they learn patience and the understanding that it’s not always possible to win—there is value in learning from challenges and setbacks.
The world of games is vast, ranging from simple, easy-to-understand games suitable for preschool-aged children to more complex games for older children and teenagers.
Games as a Learning Tool
Games as an element of the learning process are often unfairly overlooked. Board games are not just entertainment for children or a way to pass the time; they provide benefits not only for children but also for teachers. By playing games, educators can gain insight into children’s thinking and creativity. This helps them better understand children’s interests, needs, and talents, which in turn allows for a more tailored and effective learning approach.
Teachers can incorporate games as a learning tool, such as using math games to enhance logical thinking or language games to develop reading and writing skills. To promote a playful and creative approach to learning, we engage with preschool educators, encouraging them to try different games themselves and later implement them as part of the educational process. Recently, we visited the preschool “CreaKids,” where we played board games with teachers and analysed how each game could be integrated into learning. Games can help create a positive atmosphere and strengthen the bond between educators and children.
Quality Time for Parents and Children
Various games are also a great way for children and parents to spend meaningful time together. Both adults and children tend to open up emotionally during play, making it easier to discuss different topics naturally. This not only strengthens parent-child relationships but also improves communication among adults in general. Board games are not just a form of entertainment—they are a tool that helps people learn, connect, listen to others, and share their thoughts and feelings.
Games are much more than just entertainment—they are tools for learning, discovery, and growth. They teach children skills that are valuable both in education and in everyday life. By playing games with children, we show them that learning, and development never truly end.