How Board Games Can Help Preschoolers Learn and Grow

Board games aren’t just for fun—they can also be powerful tools for helping young children, especially those with disabilities, develop important social skills.

A study by researchers at Vanderbilt University explored how teaching preschoolers to play board games could enhance their social interactions. The study involved four children with or at risk for disabilities, who played games with typically developing peers.

What Did the Study Find?

The researchers used a combination of peer modeling, guided prompts, and positive reinforcement to teach the children how to play board games. They found that:

•The children became more engaged in playing board games.

•Their social interactions with peers improved.

•The approach was effective across different children, with only minor adjustments needed for some.

Why Is This Important?

Play is a crucial part of early childhood development. It helps children learn how to communicate, cooperate, and build relationships. For children with disabilities, structured play activities like board games can provide a supportive environment to practice these skills.

Tips for Parents and Educators:

•Choose Simple Games: Start with games that have clear rules and are easy to understand.

•Play Together: Join in the game to model positive behavior and guide the children.

•Encourage Interaction: Prompt children to take turns, share, and talk with each other during the game.

•Celebrate Success: Praise efforts and cooperation to reinforce positive behavior.

By incorporating board games into playtime, we can create enjoyable learning experiences that support the social development of all children. For more information, you can read the full study here: An Empirical Examination of Effective Practices for Teaching Board Game Play to Young Children.