In this version of connect four there are 3 ways to play the game. My favorite is pop out. The goal is still to get four in a row but on your turn you have 2 options, either add a piece or pop one out of the bottom row. This causes the rest of the pieces to move down a row. Sometimes it backfires and you end up benefitting your opponent. This game requires some strategy and trying to predict what the other person is going to do.

This looks like a tame game. Tic tac toe is easy right? This one has the added challenge of larger sizes being able to gobble smaller ones. You can also move your piece that is already on the board. This requires memory, you may uncover an opponents color and they win. This helps practice working memory.

The third game for today is sling hockey. This a fast paced game that helps them with reflexes, fine motor and timing. You can have your children decide on rules in the beginning of the game in terms of scoring and gameplay. Is it turn based? if a puck leaves the game board is it a lost point? Is there a timer? Great way to work on respectful negotiating, communication, losing and winning gracefully etc.

More games that I will review in the future are:

• Apple Pop
• Tiddle Winks
• shark bite
• carcaisson
• Boop
• Nile
• Guess who
• Memory
• Carman Sandiego
• and more

Here is a previous post about the benefits of gameplay for pickup sticks.

Stay tunes for more ways to teach your children with games. Also, here is a post about the benefits of boardgames. https://usergeneratededucation.wordpress.com/2022/01/31/benefits-of-using-board-games-in-the-classroom