The folks at the University of Lethbridge’s Building Brains Together group have developed a game bag to keep kids learning all summer long while they’re having fun.
The bags contain 10 games that help build children’s executive function skills and all the supplies needed to play. The games are designed for preschool-aged children to help improve their readiness for kindergarten. The kits are now available and can be ordered online through the University of Lethbridge Bookstore at a cost of $29.99.
“We know that play builds those healthy brains and a strong foundation,” says Vicki Hazelwood, coordinator of Building Brains. “We want to see kids thrive and the game bags are a tool that we can get into families’ hands and equip them to play games that make a difference. We know through the research that these playful activities will help build executive function skills in children.”
Games in the bag include Red Light, Green Light, a game that improves children’s working memory and helps them build emotional control. Musical Freeze has children dancing to music and, when the music stops, they freeze in the same pose shown on a card. Another activity in the bag is a shared project, where two children work together. The process allows children to plan, negotiate and work together to make whatever they want using modelling clay.
“We know in the first five years of life, a child’s experiences have a powerful influence on development, physically, socially and emotionally,” says Hazelwood. “So, if they have positive playful experiences with a caregiver in their life, then it really promotes strong and nurturing relationships and it sets them up for positive outcomes in the future.”
With funding from the City of Lethbridge, Building Brains partners with organizations such as Lethbridge Housing Authority, food banks, the school division and Family Centre to connect with as many caregivers and children as possible.
“We want to see healthy, resilient children in our community,” says Hazelwood.
“With these game bags, our hope is to re-invest in continuing the program and supporting healthy child development in our community.”