How to learn best through interactive games

Research suggests that children learn best through interactive and engaging activities that capture their interest and imagination (Darling-Hammond et al., 2021). Traditional teaching methods, such as relying solely on textbooks and lectures, may not be as effective as using games and activities that encourage active participation and provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences.

Using flashcards and games can be an effective way to introduce Italian to your children while making the learning process enjoyable and memorable.

Here are 4 games to try:

Music and Flashcards game, put a well known Italian song and when the music stops, kids pick up the card and says the noun aloud in the target language. This will encourages speaking practice and can be a great way to reinforce previously taught content. Research shows that using music as a tool for learning can help children retain information better as they associate the lyrics with the concepts being taught (Hall & Burns, 2019). By incorporating movement into the game, children can also engage their kinesthetic learning style, which is another effective way of retaining information (Hillman et al., 2009).
Telephone game, is a great way to encourage listening and memory skills. Choose 5 cards and teach them the sounds then let 2 or 3 kids wishper in each others ears. then when you say stop last one need to says aloud. This game can help children develop their phonemic awareness, which is the ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in language. Phonemic awareness is a crucial skill for reading and writing, and studies show that activities that promote phonemic awareness can significantly improve literacy skills (National Early Literacy Panel, 2008).
Find Me game, is a fun way to reinforce vocabulary and comprehension skills. Attach the flash cards on the wall or place them on the floor and when you say ‘ Find me a melon’ the kids point at the right card if not there is a little punishment like jumping on one leg for 5 times. Studies suggest that games that involve physical movement can help improve children’s cognitive abilities and increase their attention span (Hillman et al., 2009). Moreover, using a reward system, such as a fun or active movement, can incentivize children to actively participate in the game and reinforce their learning (Stipek, 2002).
Flashcard Memory game, is a fun way to encourage communication and collaboration skills. have a set of double cards turned them around and find the matching. When found acting out or say the words aloud. By acting out the words or phrases on the flashcards, children can improve their expressive language skills and their ability to convey meaning. Additionally, games that involve teamwork and cooperation can help children develop their social skills and empathy (Stipek, 2002).This help children develop their curiosity and creativity, which are essential for building lifelong learning habits (Darling-Hammond et al., 2021).

Overall, using flashcards and games can be an effective way to introduce Italian to your children and make the learning process engaging and enjoyable. By incorporating different learning styles and skills into each game, children can benefit from a well-rounded learning experience that caters to their unique needs and preferences.

Book a free Discovery Call here if you would like to chat about teaching your child Italian.

References:

Darling-Hammond, L., Flook, L., Cook-Harvey, C., Barron, B., & Osher, D. (2021). Implications for educational practice of the science of learning and development. Applied Developmental Science, 25(2), 97-140.

Hall, S. R., & Burns, S. (2019). The effects of music on learning and memory. Journal of Undergraduate Neuroscience Education, 18(3), A228-A233.

Hillman, C. H., Pontifex, M. B., Raine, L. B., Castelli, D. M., Hall, E. E., & Kramer, A. F. (2009). The effect of acute treadmill walking on cognitive control and academic achievement in preadolescent children. Neuroscience, 159(3), 1044-1054.

National Early Literacy Panel. (2008). Developing early literacy: Report of the National Early Literacy Panel. National Institute

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