I have spent about two years scouring the net for the best games available and have play tested every game to ensure that they are not only fun, but that they provide a firm educational foundation for our children.

The games that we will play engage children in learning the following:

creativity

critical thinking skills

strategic planning

cooperation

competition

communication

good sportsmanship

math

sequencing

complex pattern recognition

probability

Up and Moving Game

New Game

Player's Choice

Wrap Up/Review

Up and Moving Game: The first 10 - 15 minutes will be spent playing a game that is more physical in nature. Something that requires the children to move and interact socially to build a sense of safety and rapport.

Learn a New Game: Next we'll all learn a new game together. My goal is for there to be a new game introduced every session. I think it is important for kids to have variety, and much of the learning comes from the initial trial and error of finding what strategies work, and what don't.

Player's Choice: Then we'll have some "Player's Choice" where children are able to self select a game from the ones that they have previously learned, and move into smaller groups to play thegames they enjoy.

Wrap Up/Review: Finally, in the last 10 to 15 minutes we will review the games that were played, and discuss them in more depth. Many of the games are themed around financial issues, historical errors, or animal themes. We can bring out those themes, talk about what it means to be a good player, and reward excellent behavior.

The primary language of the session will be English, but we do not want to exclude children who are not confident of their English, and will work together to care for the language and the learner. I see healthy and playful interaction as the primary goal, and the language of that interaction secondary.

While all the games are English editions, I have chosen games that are not reading intensive, and have easy to understand rules. I plan on explaining the game in English, and I will interact with the children primarily in English. Most of the time my son will be there, and he has played all of these games, so if there are questions on rules or strategy that my Chinese cannot handle, I'm sure he can help.

Kids learn most naturally when they are at play, so I am confident that this will be a rewarding linguistic experience no matter what their level.

Most games we play are rated as appropriate for ages 8 to 88. As a rule of thumb, I'd say that is about right. If you have a six or seven year old who enjoys playing card or board games now, and is able to follow the rules and stay involved to the end, then we'd be happy to give them a chance to play along.

4 to 10 humans.

Because of the nature and mechanics of board and card games, a group size larger than 10 is not possible.

Notice that I say humans, and not children. If you would like to play with your child, you are more than welcome, but you will be charged as a player, not an observer. The rationale for this is simple. I want everyone to play. Games are that magical space where adults and kids can interact on a level playing field, and it is important that we let all the players play, not give advice or instruct. So adults are more than welcome to join the group, and to play and learn with us all as a part of the group.

Twice a month starting in October.

10:30 - 12:00 Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday at the Home Club.

First Family Member = NT$500 per session

Each Subsequent Family Member = NT$400 per person, per session

As space is limited, you can ensure your place at the gaming table by paying in advance.

I look forward to learning with you and your children.

With respect and appreciation,

Jimbo Clark