"Mind Your Games" - How do Games Affect our Mental Well-Being?

Written By Maheshika (Myshi) Mackenzie-Baker

There is so much research about the impact screens have on children’s brain development. However, we are living in a time when devices are a part of our daily lives. The Q4 Learning Lab unit is intended to allow learners to see the impact and importance of games on our mental well-being. Learners will explore screen-based and non-screen games. They will be exposed to content such as: how games affect our brain, the idea of ‘instant gratification’, and how to be mindful of our well-being while playing games. 

The end goal is the idea that learners can become more mindful of what they play, how much time they spend on screens and also learn how to regulate their feelings when they need to. The final product of the unit is to have learners either adapt a game of their liking or design a game of their own. 

We kickstarted the unit by exploring the ‘Zones of Regulation’ program. It is a curriculum designed to teach students how to identify their energy levels. Furthermore, it teaches learners how to utilize a variety of skills to regulate themselves. 

Learners in C1-2 were introduced to the above curriculum through a range of games and activities.  They also had Lilly, a coach from Mindful Sparks join to discuss and teach a range of mindfulness techniques. Following this, learners created their Zones of Regulation wall, where they came up with ideas of what they can do in each zone. Now, on a daily basis, learners have the option to ‘check-in’ on this wall. It allows them to reflect on their mental state and also lets the Learning Designers be able to help when needed. 

Upcoming Learning

• Explore parts of the brain and how it is impacted when playing games 
• An experiment on how they feel when playing screen versus non-screen games
• Research how particular games impact our well-being
• Conduct a friendly ‘tug of war’ debate on which types of games are better
• Exposure to systems in games and game design
• Hear about Cohort 3-4's Q3 unit on game design 
• Guest speakers from VERSO to present about non-screen game design
• Design games to showcase games at the end of the quarter
  

Reflecting as Part of the Learning Process

Written By C3-4 Learning Designers

Reflecting on one's work is essential to learning, particularly for young learners. Through reflective practice, children can assume greater control over their learning, identify areas where they excel, pinpoint areas in need of improvement, and set meaningful goals for themselves.

By regularly reflecting on their work, children can develop essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Reflection helps children to think more deeply about their work, analyze their progress, and consider how they might improve or approach future challenges.

We encourage parents to support their child's reflective practice by regularly engaging in conversations about their learning, encouraging them to share their work, and commenting on their children's reflections. Your feedback and support can help your child develop a deeper understanding of their own progress and encourage them to take ownership of their learning. Together, we can continue to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for our children. Thank you for partnering with us in this important journey!