Old School Fun for Current Summer Practice

By Stacey Seybold Hiller, Speech and Language Pathologist

I recently read that over 65% of young adults spend less than ONE HOUR per day unplugged.   That blew me away.  While technology is a blessing in so many ways, it does present temptations and traps that are easy to slip into.  That got me thinking;  How can I incorporate “old school” toys to not only help my students unplug, but also provide math, reading, and thinking practice that is so important to keep going during the summer months.  Here are some examples I came up with:

• Yahtzee-This game is so simple, but it requires attention, and provides practice for math, logic, turn taking and planning ahead.  It is quick, easy to play, and fun!

• Operation-This game is really silly, but it also provides great fine motor practice, requires problem solving, and begins many great conversations.

• Mancala-if you have never tried this ancient game, it is worth your time.  It is quick, and fun and provides strategic thinking, math practice, and being able to visualize possible solutions.

• Mastermind-this game is also quick, but it is the ultimate logic and problem solving game.

I am going to continue to be on the look out for more low-tech, old-school games to provide up-to-date academic skills practice in a fun way!

Blogger Stacey Seybold Hiller is owner of Indy Pediatric Speech Solutions, Inc.

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