Works For Me Wednesday: Using Games To Teach

By MAD21

I have worked with children for years and have found that one of the best ways to teach children is through games. If they are having fun it not only holds their interest, but it makes them want to learn more.

One of my favorite ways to teach them how to listen to you and be tuned into your voice, is by playing a version of: Red Light Green Light. The game can be played the traditional way, but in real life, where we are rushing around and there is no time and not enough friends to play with, you can play the game while just walking or running.

The idea is that while you are walking with your children, you say, "Red light!" and they stop walking and freeze like their feet are glued to the pavement. Then you, of course, say, "Green light!" and they can walk freely again. You know that you are teaching them listen to you and to stop and look both ways before crossing the street, etc. but they just think you are playing a game.

The more often you play this "game," the more often they are tuned into you and your voice, even when you are not playing the game. Which comes in handy in many situations, but more importantly gives them a better chance of hearing you if they are running into a dangerous situation.

Every Wednesday, fellow blogger Kristen at We are THAT Family posts clever ideas for getting things done. She calls it, "Works For Me Wednesday" or WFMW. Be sure to go visit her blog to read her post along with links to other blogs who are participating.