The scientific power behind Othello and other pretend play

Research both in Japan and overseas has shown that play can greatly improve children's creativity, logical thinking, and concentration. In this article, we will introduce some games that have been scientifically proven to be effective for elementary school students.

Othello and chess develop the ability to think

Recent studies have shown that strategy board games like Othello can develop logical and mathematical thinking in elementary school students.

For example, a Danish study found that lessons incorporating Othello significantly improved children's ability to form hypotheses (reasoning skills), such as "If XX then XX will result in XX."

Chess and shogi are also said to be effective and improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

Pretend play and creative activities develop "inspirational powers"

It is said that games where there is not one correct answer are very good for developing creativity.

It has been shown that "creative play" that allows free thinking, such as acting and fantasy play, develops the ability to generate inspiration and ideas (divergent thinking).

It is also said that pretend play and creative activities once a week greatly improve children's ability to express themselves in words and consider new perspectives.

〇The game of "thinking and making things by yourself" is amazing

In one study, elementary school students (aged 8-10) were asked to "create rules for a new game and then actually play it," and their "ability to structurally grasp and organize problems (creativity and development)" improved dramatically.
The experience of "planning while having fun" will help you train your thinking skills.

〇Is it proven effective to combine exercise and ideas?

There are also reports that activities that combine exercise with creative activities (such as "jumping and then telling a story that comes to mind") can improve concentration and creativity.
It has been suggested that your mind may be more alert after a lot of movement.

summary

For children, the fun things they do, like playing Othello or pretend play, are filled with clues to developing their abilities. Perhaps the best way to foster their child's growth is for parents to notice what their child likes and enjoys and play together with them.

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Author
Ryota Ishii, Physical Therapist at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic

Supervision
Dr. Yasushi Sera, Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic

Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
https://sera-clinic.com/