Why we should all PLAY GAMES!

Whenever I go to a math competition or STEM summer camp, I have noticed that everyone there shares one thing in common: we all grew up playing games. Collectively, we have played most card cards, board games, construction and building games, strategy games, and math and brain teaser games. Some of these games require taking turns, others require speed; some games require co-operation, and others are highly competitive; some games have different outcomes each time you play (which requires a lot more flexibility) while other games have similar outcomes (which requires optimization). Basically, you can name any obscure game and chances are someone in a group of advanced math/science students would have played it. This has been something that connects me with a larger community of students in STEM and it can often be a great ice breaker at STEM camps, events and competitions.

There have been also ample academic research linking the role of playing games to the development of core cognitive skills such as logical and strategic thinking as well as problem solving. Not to mention game playing can also build character by teaching perseverance, creativity, focus, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Personally I have so many fond memories of playing games with family and friends, such as the time I built an electric door bell with Snap Circuit with friends, how I won a game of Monopoly Deal because I found an obscure rule, or how I have been playing the game SET for 10 years and only recently learned a collaborative way to play while attending Math Prize for Girls' game night.

So in this website, I am providing you with my favorite games (with some for each age group). I know many parents and students might think playing games isn't the most productive way to spend time, but I can assure you it is the exact opposite. Playing is truly one of the best ways to learn and grow, no matter what age you are.