how do sports teach problem solving skills

Sports & Problem-Solving Skills

by Mary | Jun 14, 2023 | Blog

Hello, Everyone!

“Do sports really help your child develop problem-solving skills?” If you’ve found yourself asking this question, you are not alone. Speaking of which, we’ll be discussing this very topic in our blog today. We’re no strangers to the positive effects sports have on the quality of life and health of a person, especially the young ones. However, today, we will dive deeper into how sports help your child develop problem-solving skills . Even so, before we get into the “how” of the matter, let’s first understand what it actually is.

Problem-Solving Skills – Why They’re Important!

Problem-solving skills refer to an individual’s ability to detect, evaluate, and solve problems in an efficient and effective way. These skills help children think critically and teach them to approach challenges with a positive “can-do” attitude. With these skills, children learn to persevere when things get tough and are able to be resourceful in finding solutions. Problem-solving skills are critical to almost every aspect of our lives. For instance. they are important for success in almost every field of life, i.e., from academic and professional success to fulfillment of individual and aggregate goals.

Developing Problem-Solving Skills In Children Through Sports – How Does It Work?

Participating in sports can help kids develop problem-solving skills in many ways. Firstly, sports require players to think on their feet and make quick decisions in a constantly changing environment. This helps children develop their ability to analyze situations and make strategic decisions under pressure.

Secondly, sports often involve teamwork which requires players to communicate effectively and work together to achieve a common goal. This teaches children how to collaborate and negotiate with others to solve problems and achieve success. Click here to read more on our past scrimmage where teamwork was essential in creating the outcomes we had.

Lastly, participating in sports can help children develop problem-solving skills that will serve them well by better equipping them to face challenges with confidence, creativity, and resourcefulness. Sports provide opportunities for children to face challenges and overcome obstacles. Whether it’s learning a new skill on the court or facing a tough opponent, sports teach children resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Final Verdict

The next time you may be inclined to think that sports is more for fun and competition, remember the developmental benefits that are co-occurring. Sports indirectly have many benefits including this critical key component in child development. We W.I.L.L. Thru Sports knows the effectiveness of including strategies that foster problem-solving skills applying those skills in sports. Hence, we work to prepare youth to manage real-world situations that can set them apart from others and set them on the path to success. We continue to make a difference in the lives of our participants and are ready for you to join today!

Stay tuned and keep following gus for more updates on our programs and events. Last but not least, feel free to contact us at [email protected] for share your queries, concerns, and suggestions or visit us at wewillthrusports.com

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Developing Life Skills Through Sports and Its Benefits

In the current fast-paced and competitive world, the significance of developing life skills has never been more crucial. One avenue that stands out in fostering these essential skills is through sports. The journey of developing life skills through sports is a dynamic and transformative process that goes beyond the confines of the playing field.

This article explores the profound impact of engaging in sports activities on personal growth and the multitude of benefits it brings.

What Are Life Skills?

Life skills are a set of abilities that enable individuals to navigate the challenges and complexities of everyday life effectively. These skills encompass a broad range of capabilities that extend beyond academic or technical knowledge.

Life skills are practical, adaptive, and can be applied in various situations, contributing to an individual's overall competence and resilience. Here are five the most common key life skills:

This involves treating others with consideration, valuing diversity, and acknowledging the opinions and boundaries between people.

It is characterized by truthfulness, integrity, and transparency in communication and actions.

3. Teamwork

These life skills emphasize collaboration, cooperation, and effective communication within a group to achieve common goals.

4. Emotional Regulation

It involves the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one's own emotions in a healthy and constructive manner.

5. Perseverance

This skill centered on maintaining determination, resilience, and commitment in the face of challenges and setbacks.

What Are The Benefits Of Participating In Sport?

Participating in sports offers various benefits that extend far beyond physical activity . Beyond the obvious physical advantages of improved fitness and health, engagement in sports fosters essential life skills. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Cooperation and Teamwork

Participation in sports instills the value of cooperation and teamwork. Children learn to work harmoniously with their peers towards a common goal. It fosters a sense of unity and shared achievement.

2. Reduced Selfishness

Sports teach children to think beyond individual interests. Through team dynamics, they understand the importance of considering others, promoting a mindset that is less selfish and more attuned to collective success.

3. Improved Communication Skills

Engaging in sports requires effective communication. Children learn to listen to their teammates, follow instructions from coaches, and express their ideas. These enhanced communication skills extend beyond the playing field into everyday interactions.

4. Expanded Social Circle

Sports provide a platform for children to make new friends outside the school setting. The shared experiences of training and competition create lasting bonds, broadening their social circle and exposing them to diverse perspectives.

5. Acceptance of Discipline

Sports often come with rules and regulations that require disciplined adherence. Children have to learn to accept and respect these guidelines. It also fosters a sense of discipline that can positively impact their behavior in various aspects of life.

6. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills

The challenges presented in sports help children develop effective problem-solving skills since they have to learn the strategy in overcoming obstacles. These skills become transferable to academic and real-life situations.

7. Leadership Skills

Within a sports team, opportunities arise for children to take on leadership roles. Whether as a team captain or a supportive teammate, these experiences foster the development of leadership qualities that extend beyond the sports arena.

8. Increased Physical Fitness

Participation in sports contributes to improved physical health. Regular physical activity helps children maintain a healthy weight, develop strong muscles and bones, and establish habits that support a lifelong commitment to fitness.

9. Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing

Participation in sports has been linked to improved emotional wellbeing in children. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as " feel-good " hormones, which can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and promote a positive mood.

10. Increased Confidence

Sports provide a platform for children to set and achieve goals, whether individually or as part of a team. These accomplishments contribute to a sense of competence and self-efficacy, ultimately boosting a child's confidence in their abilities both on and off the playing field.

How Does Sports Enhance Children's Development?

Participation in sports plays a pivotal role in enhancing children's development by offering a multifaceted platform for growth. Beyond the physical benefits, engagement in sports equips children with invaluable life skills that contribute to their overall well-being. Here are how sports can enhance children’s development:

1. Emotional Regulation

Engaging in sports teaches children to manage their emotions effectively. Through wins and losses, they experience the highs and lows of competition, so they can learn to navigate success and disappointment with resilience.

2. Positive Channeling of Emotions

Sports provide a constructive outlet for children to channel negative feelings. Instead of expressing frustration or anger in harmful ways, they can redirect these emotions into the game and foster a healthier emotional release.

3. Patience and Persistence

Children develop patience as they come to understand that skill improvement is a gradual process. The repetitive nature of practice in sports instills the value of persistence, teaching them that consistent effort over time leads to progress.

Ready To Transform Your Life Through Sports?

The benefits of developing life skills through sports are multifaceted and enduring. Encouraging participation in sports is an investment in the overall well-being and development of children. It also prepares them to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and resilience.

At Rockstar Academy, we pride ourselves on being a premier Sports & Performing Arts Academy dedicated to fostering holistic development through a unique blend of education and physical activity. If you're curious about how our programs can benefit your child, don't hesitate to contact Rockstar Academy .

We understand the importance of ensuring the right fit for your child, which is why we offer a free trial at Rockstar Academy . This way, you can experience firsthand the enriching environment and tailored activities that contribute to the overall growth and well-being of your child. Join us in empowering your child to become a true rockstar in life!

1. How would playing sports help in developing life skills?

Engaging in sports provides a dynamic platform for honing various life skills. Team sports, for instance, promote teamwork, communication, and cooperation, while individual sports foster discipline, self-motivation, and goal-setting.

2. Why is it important to improve skills in sports?

Improving skills in sports extends beyond athletic prowess. It is crucial for personal growth as it cultivates discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. Moreover, developing skills in sports contributes to enhanced self-esteem and confidence, positively impacting an individual's mental well-being.

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How Sports Help Kids Develop Life Skills

Children need more influence in their lives besides what they get from their phones. The internet can obscure a child’s reality and identity. They can create poor social skills, inability to communicate, bad behavior, low self-esteem, aggressiveness, cognitive issues, trouble concentrating, depression, etc.

Kids can become more obsessed with other people’s lives, tweets, and likes rather than their own or learning to score a game-winning goal. The influence is too easy. However, sports and physical activity can make a cloudy day turn sunny.

Sport and physical activity positively impact the social, emotional, and academic performance of kids.

Calm an overactive mind to be more focused.
Relax aggressive behavior to understand that there is another side.
Help kids gain self-esteem.
Releasing endorphins in the body, the body’s feel-good chemicals.
Improve concentration

How Sport And Physical Activity Alter Your Brain

Sport and physical activity alter your brain positively and progressively. The front of your brain is the part of your brain that controls your emotions, ability to socialize, and cognitive skills. Sports and physical activity increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain and cause endorphins and hormones to be released that create a better mood, well-being, and positive feelings. Sport and physical activity also create new nerve cells in the brain that bridge and influence other parts of the brain’s connections. Playing sports and physical activity helps your brain to function better. When all of this comes into play, it produces a more rational, logical, and empathetic mind that leads to other great qualities. When you develop one, you begin to unlock the others.

Sports Develop Life Skills

Life skills are important because they are the foundation that causes other skills to blossom and flourish and how a child will integrate with the world. Playing sports creates self-awareness, and self-awareness leads to good decision-making, problem-solving, and the ability to communicate effectively. The ability to communicate through self-awareness creates empathy and understanding and builds positive relationships and friendships. Sports also instills assertiveness, positivity, and self-confidence; to do and accomplish and not be afraid to do it.

Sports Develop Academic Skills

Academia is important to develop a child’s mind. It will depend on life skills because the child must integrate and interface with the school. Sports help children be assertive, aware, and curious and, develop initiative. These skills influence critical thinking and imagination. In sports, you are often given a specific position to play. Learning to play that specific position teaches children accountability, follow instructions and organizational skills. These skills transfer into good study habits and better concentration.

Sport Develop Social And Emotional Skills

Social and emotional skills are important. They help children to stay calm and have the self-control to think rather than react. Self-control leads to expressing feelings, listening to others, and being aware of other people’s feelings. Sports give children a chance to develop a positive self-image, feel proud, and show affection.

Sports Develop Career Skills

Playing sports throughout life ingrains life, social and emotional skills. As children become older and enter the workforce, they will understand teamwork and work as a team. Working as a team will further develop their commitment, responsibility, and people skills in a more advanced way. However, having the foundation to function as a team is essential. When the going gets tough, the tough get going will access their perseverance, determination, and ability to handle the pressure. All of the aforementioned prepares them to be the “cream of the crop” and the ability to obtain leadership and management positions.

Life Is Just Like A Sport

Researchers today now know that sport, physical activity, even recess are just as essential as learning a subject like math in school because of their positive development and unparalleled effects. There are schools in Finland that teach through constant recess. Their results show better behaviors, improved academic retention, and the willingness to want to learn. The kids also learned respect, responsibility, compassion to help each other and had better self-esteem.

Sport and physical activity are not just useful to improve and transform the body. It is excellent at developing the brain too! Believe it or not, when kids, even adults, play sports, do physical activity or move and play, it is developing their mind-body connection. It wires their brain to become more aware and mindful. And, it can rewire a brain to do the same too! Sport and physical activity have an incredibly positive effect, and kids need to be given this opportunity to develop. Furthermore, when children start at a young age, they are more likely to continue staying healthy and more active as they become older.

Social media, video games, and TV do serve as building blocks for development. It is not about taking it all away from children. It is about guiding, educating, and showing them the positives without abusing them. In this day and age, children must learn and know the difference between life and the internet and that it is not a replacement for physical contact and communication.

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Teaching problem solving: Let students get ‘stuck’ and ‘unstuck’

Subscribe to the center for universal education bulletin, kate mills and km kate mills literacy interventionist - red bank primary school helyn kim helyn kim former brookings expert @helyn_kim.

October 31, 2017

This is the second in a six-part blog series on teaching 21st century skills , including problem solving , metacognition , critical thinking , and collaboration , in classrooms.

In the real world, students encounter problems that are complex, not well defined, and lack a clear solution and approach. They need to be able to identify and apply different strategies to solve these problems. However, problem solving skills do not necessarily develop naturally; they need to be explicitly taught in a way that can be transferred across multiple settings and contexts.

Here’s what Kate Mills, who taught 4 th grade for 10 years at Knollwood School in New Jersey and is now a Literacy Interventionist at Red Bank Primary School, has to say about creating a classroom culture of problem solvers:

Helping my students grow to be people who will be successful outside of the classroom is equally as important as teaching the curriculum. From the first day of school, I intentionally choose language and activities that help to create a classroom culture of problem solvers. I want to produce students who are able to think about achieving a particular goal and manage their mental processes . This is known as metacognition , and research shows that metacognitive skills help students become better problem solvers.

I begin by “normalizing trouble” in the classroom. Peter H. Johnston teaches the importance of normalizing struggle , of naming it, acknowledging it, and calling it what it is: a sign that we’re growing. The goal is for the students to accept challenge and failure as a chance to grow and do better.

I look for every chance to share problems and highlight how the students— not the teachers— worked through those problems. There is, of course, coaching along the way. For example, a science class that is arguing over whose turn it is to build a vehicle will most likely need a teacher to help them find a way to the balance the work in an equitable way. Afterwards, I make it a point to turn it back to the class and say, “Do you see how you …” By naming what it is they did to solve the problem , students can be more independent and productive as they apply and adapt their thinking when engaging in future complex tasks.

After a few weeks, most of the class understands that the teachers aren’t there to solve problems for the students, but to support them in solving the problems themselves. With that important part of our classroom culture established, we can move to focusing on the strategies that students might need.

Here’s one way I do this in the classroom:

I show the broken escalator video to the class. Since my students are fourth graders, they think it’s hilarious and immediately start exclaiming, “Just get off! Walk!”

When the video is over, I say, “Many of us, probably all of us, are like the man in the video yelling for help when we get stuck. When we get stuck, we stop and immediately say ‘Help!’ instead of embracing the challenge and trying new ways to work through it.” I often introduce this lesson during math class, but it can apply to any area of our lives, and I can refer to the experience and conversation we had during any part of our day.

Research shows that just because students know the strategies does not mean they will engage in the appropriate strategies. Therefore, I try to provide opportunities where students can explicitly practice learning how, when, and why to use which strategies effectively so that they can become self-directed learners.

For example, I give students a math problem that will make many of them feel “stuck”. I will say, “Your job is to get yourselves stuck—or to allow yourselves to get stuck on this problem—and then work through it, being mindful of how you’re getting yourselves unstuck.” As students work, I check-in to help them name their process: “How did you get yourself unstuck?” or “What was your first step? What are you doing now? What might you try next?” As students talk about their process, I’ll add to a list of strategies that students are using and, if they are struggling, help students name a specific process. For instance, if a student says he wrote the information from the math problem down and points to a chart, I will say: “Oh that’s interesting. You pulled the important information from the problem out and organized it into a chart.” In this way, I am giving him the language to match what he did, so that he now has a strategy he could use in other times of struggle.

The charts grow with us over time and are something that we refer to when students are stuck or struggling. They become a resource for students and a way for them to talk about their process when they are reflecting on and monitoring what did or did not work.

For me, as a teacher, it is important that I create a classroom environment in which students are problem solvers. This helps tie struggles to strategies so that the students will not only see value in working harder but in working smarter by trying new and different strategies and revising their process. In doing so, they will more successful the next time around.

How to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

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Steps to Follow
Allow Consequences

Whether your child can't find their math homework or has forgotten their lunch, good problem-solving skills are the key to helping them manage their life.

A 2010 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that kids who lack problem-solving skills may be at a higher risk of depression and suicidality. Additionally, the researchers found that teaching a child problem-solving skills can improve mental health .

You can begin teaching basic problem-solving skills during preschool and help your child sharpen their skills into high school and beyond.

Why Problem-Solving Skills Matter

Kids face a variety of problems every day, ranging from academic difficulties to problems on the sports field. Yet few of them have a formula for solving those problems.

Kids who lack problem-solving skills may avoid taking action when faced with a problem.

Rather than put their energy into solving the problem, they may invest their time in avoiding the issue. That's why many kids fall behind in school or struggle to maintain friendships .

Other kids who lack problem-solving skills spring into action without recognizing their choices. A child may hit a peer who cuts in front of them in line because they are not sure what else to do.

Or, they may walk out of class when they are being teased because they can't think of any other ways to make it stop. Those impulsive choices may create even bigger problems in the long run.

The 5 Steps of Problem-Solving

Kids who feel overwhelmed or hopeless often won't attempt to address a problem. But when you give them a clear formula for solving problems, they'll feel more confident in their ability to try. Here are the steps to problem-solving:

Identify the problem . Just stating the problem out loud can make a big difference for kids who are feeling stuck. Help your child state the problem, such as, "You don't have anyone to play with at recess," or "You aren't sure if you should take the advanced math class."
Develop at least five possible solutions . Brainstorm possible ways to solve the problem. Emphasize that all the solutions don't necessarily need to be good ideas (at least not at this point). Help your child develop solutions if they are struggling to come up with ideas. Even a silly answer or far-fetched idea is a possible solution. The key is to help them see that with a little creativity, they can find many different potential solutions.
Identify the pros and cons of each solution . Help your child identify potential positive and negative consequences for each potential solution they identified.
Pick a solution. Once your child has evaluated the possible positive and negative outcomes, encourage them to pick a solution.
Test it out . Tell them to try a solution and see what happens. If it doesn't work out, they can always try another solution from the list that they developed in step two.

Practice Solving Problems

When problems arise, don’t rush to solve your child’s problems for them. Instead, help them walk through the problem-solving steps. Offer guidance when they need assistance, but encourage them to solve problems on their own. If they are unable to come up with a solution, step in and help them think of some. But don't automatically tell them what to do.

When you encounter behavioral issues, use a problem-solving approach. Sit down together and say, "You've been having difficulty getting your homework done lately. Let's problem-solve this together." You might still need to offer a consequence for misbehavior, but make it clear that you're invested in looking for a solution so they can do better next time.

Use a problem-solving approach to help your child become more independent.

If they forgot to pack their soccer cleats for practice, ask, "What can we do to make sure this doesn't happen again?" Let them try to develop some solutions on their own.

Kids often develop creative solutions. So they might say, "I'll write a note and stick it on my door so I'll remember to pack them before I leave," or "I'll pack my bag the night before and I'll keep a checklist to remind me what needs to go in my bag."

Provide plenty of praise when your child practices their problem-solving skills.

Allow for Natural Consequences

Natural consequences may also teach problem-solving skills. So when it's appropriate, allow your child to face the natural consequences of their action. Just make sure it's safe to do so.

For example, let your teenager spend all of their money during the first 10 minutes you're at an amusement park if that's what they want. Then, let them go for the rest of the day without any spending money.

This can lead to a discussion about problem-solving to help them make a better choice next time. Consider these natural consequences as a teachable moment to help work together on problem-solving.

Becker-Weidman EG, Jacobs RH, Reinecke MA, Silva SG, March JS. Social problem-solving among adolescents treated for depression . Behav Res Ther . 2010;48(1):11-18. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2009.08.006

Pakarinen E, Kiuru N, Lerkkanen M-K, Poikkeus A-M, Ahonen T, Nurmi J-E. Instructional support predicts childrens task avoidance in kindergarten . Early Child Res Q . 2011;26(3):376-386. doi:10.1016/j.ecresq.2010.11.003

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Cheng SC, She HC, Huang LY. The impact of problem-solving instruction on middle school students’ physical science learning: Interplays of knowledge, reasoning, and problem solving . EJMSTE . 2018;14(3):731-743.

Vlachou A, Stavroussi P. Promoting social inclusion: A structured intervention for enhancing interpersonal problem‐solving skills in children with mild intellectual disabilities . Support Learn . 2016;31(1):27-45. doi:10.1111/1467-9604.12112

Öğülmüş S, Kargı E. The interpersonal cognitive problem solving approach for preschoolers . Turkish J Educ . 2015;4(17347):19-28. doi:10.19128/turje.181093

American Academy of Pediatrics. What's the best way to discipline my child? .

Kashani-Vahid L, Afrooz G, Shokoohi-Yekta M, Kharrazi K, Ghobari B. Can a creative interpersonal problem solving program improve creative thinking in gifted elementary students? . Think Skills Creat . 2017;24:175-185. doi:10.1016/j.tsc.2017.02.011

Shokoohi-Yekta M, Malayeri SA. Effects of advanced parenting training on children's behavioral problems and family problem solving . Procedia Soc Behav Sci . 2015;205:676-680. doi:10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.09.106

By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, an international bestselling author of books on mental strength and host of The Verywell Mind Podcast. She delivered one of the most popular TEDx talks of all time.

7 Valuable Life Skills Kids Can Learn Through Team Sports

May 23, 2022

Kids can learn many valuable life skills through playing team sports. These skills can help them in all areas of their lives, from academics to relationships.

Studies show that participation in team sports benefits mental, emotional, social, and physical health while endowing kids with essential life skills. In fact, the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition (PCSFN ) recently released a report that detailed the many advantages of team sports. Read on to learn how things like teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship can help kids in all aspects of their lives, from academics to their future careers.

Health Benefits of Youth Sports Participation

Participation in team sports yields both short and long-term benefits for kids and communities. The PCSFN data showed that team sport involvement:

Reduced the occurrence of anxiety and depression
Lowered stress levels
Boosted self-esteem and confidence
Decreased suicide risks
Cut-down on the incidence of substance abuse
Bettered cognitive performance
Ignited creativity
Enhanced life enjoyment and psychological well-being
Augmented bone health
Lowered obesity and fat percentages
Increased cardio and muscular fitness
Lowered cancer and diabetes risks

7 Key Life Skills Kids Can Learn from Youth Sports

Playing team sports is a great way to develop life skills while teaching kids how to deal with both victory and defeat. Ultimately, team sports provide kids with a valuable learning environment that endows them with the following essential abilities:

1. Kids Can Learn Teamwork Through Sports

Teamwork is key in team sports. Kids learn how to work together to achieve a common goal. Playing as part of a team can also help individuals learn important life skills such as cooperation and communication. This teamwork skill can be applied in all areas of life, from the classroom to the workplace.

Children who participate in team sports learn how to be good teammates. They develop a sense of responsibility to the group and understand that their actions influence others. This is an important lesson that carries over into many facets of life. When people can work together towards a common goal, the results are impressive.

Sharing the load with a team makes workloads easier to manage. It allows kids to learn from the strengths and weaknesses of others and become a more well-rounded individual. Teamwork also allows your children to build relationships. Working together with others allows them to form strong bonds and friendships that can last a lifetime.

2. Kids Can Learn Discipline Through Sports

One of the many benefits of playing team sports is that they teach discipline. This is because to be successful, players need to follow the coach’s instructions and work together as a team.

If someone doesn’t adhere to the rules or starts behaving selfishly, it can disrupt the whole team’s performance. As a result, players learn the importance of discipline and how to be accountable for their actions.

3. Kids Learn Sportsmanship

Sportsmanship is another important life skill that kids can learn through team sports. This skill teaches kids how to be respectful and fair to their opponents. It can help kids develop positive relationships with others, both in and out of the classroom or workplace.

Sportsmanship is about being a good role model both on and off the field.. It is a vital life skill that teaches kids how to act with grace and respect towards others, whether they are winning or losing.

4. Sports Teach Kids How To Turn a Setback into a Step Forward

Team sports also help children learn how to deal with disappointment. Not every game goes the way we want it to and not every player gets to be in the spotlight. Learning how to cope with these setbacks and still be a part of the team is an important life skill.

5. Sports Help Kids Learn Communication Skills

There are many benefits of team sports, but one of the most important is the development of communication skills. Playing on a team teaches children how to compromise, cooperate, and problem solve with others. This valuable experience helps them in all aspects of life, from school to work.

Good communication is essential in any successful relationship. When everyone is on the same page, tasks become easier and are done with fewer misunderstandings. The skills learned while playing team sports carry over into all aspects of life, from work teams to families.

6. Kids Learn Problem Solving Through Playing Sports

The more you practice problem solving, the better kids become at it. This is true for any skill, but it’s especially important in team sports. The more time your kids spend working on strategies with their teammates, the better they get at implementing them when it matters most.

This practice of problem solving helps kids learn how to think on their feet and make decisions under pressure. It also allows them to listen to different perspectives as they problem solve to come up with better solutions as a team.

7. Patience Can be Taught Through Youth Sports

To be successful in a team sport, players must learn how to be patient and wait for their chance to contribute. This can be difficult, especially when athletes are eager to make an impact. However, if players try to do too much, they may end up making mistakes and costing the team a victory.

Practicing patience on the field helps kids learn to stay patient under pressure off the field as well. This will help as they grow into adulthood and experience more stressful situations such as college exams or an important presentation at work.

How to Get Started with Your Local Kids’ Sports Leagues

Team sports provide a great opportunity for kids to learn important life skills. These skills can help them in all aspects of their lives, from academics to their future careers. Kids who participate in team sports are more likely to be successful in life.

i9 Sports is the nation’s largest multi-sport provider dedicated to offering high-quality, community-based kids sports leagues. Contact us today to find a program near you!

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Teaching problem solving.

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Tips and Techniques

Expert vs. novice problem solvers, communicate.

Have students identify specific problems, difficulties, or confusions . Don’t waste time working through problems that students already understand.
If students are unable to articulate their concerns, determine where they are having trouble by asking them to identify the specific concepts or principles associated with the problem.
In a one-on-one tutoring session, ask the student to work his/her problem out loud . This slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to access understanding.
When working with larger groups you can ask students to provide a written “two-column solution.” Have students write up their solution to a problem by putting all their calculations in one column and all of their reasoning (in complete sentences) in the other column. This helps them to think critically about their own problem solving and helps you to more easily identify where they may be having problems. Two-Column Solution (Math) Two-Column Solution (Physics)

Encourage Independence

Model the problem solving process rather than just giving students the answer. As you work through the problem, consider how a novice might struggle with the concepts and make your thinking clear
Have students work through problems on their own. Ask directing questions or give helpful suggestions, but provide only minimal assistance and only when needed to overcome obstacles.
Don’t fear group work ! Students can frequently help each other, and talking about a problem helps them think more critically about the steps needed to solve the problem. Additionally, group work helps students realize that problems often have multiple solution strategies, some that might be more effective than others

Be sensitive

Frequently, when working problems, students are unsure of themselves. This lack of confidence may hamper their learning. It is important to recognize this when students come to us for help, and to give each student some feeling of mastery. Do this by providing positive reinforcement to let students know when they have mastered a new concept or skill.

Encourage Thoroughness and Patience

Try to communicate that the process is more important than the answer so that the student learns that it is OK to not have an instant solution. This is learned through your acceptance of his/her pace of doing things, through your refusal to let anxiety pressure you into giving the right answer, and through your example of problem solving through a step-by step process.

Experts (teachers) in a particular field are often so fluent in solving problems from that field that they can find it difficult to articulate the problem solving principles and strategies they use to novices (students) in their field because these principles and strategies are second nature to the expert. To teach students problem solving skills, a teacher should be aware of principles and strategies of good problem solving in his or her discipline .

The mathematician George Polya captured the problem solving principles and strategies he used in his discipline in the book How to Solve It: A New Aspect of Mathematical Method (Princeton University Press, 1957). The book includes a summary of Polya’s problem solving heuristic as well as advice on the teaching of problem solving.

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Apr 13, 2023

The Power of Play: How Athletic Activities Foster Leadership Skills in Children

Updated: May 31, 2023

As parents, we want our children to grow into confident and capable leaders who can tackle any challenge that comes their way. But how do we encourage such growth in our little ones? Believe it or not, the power of play can go a long way in fostering leadership skills in children. Specifically, athletic activities have been shown to teach valuable lessons about teamwork, communication, perseverance and more. So whether your child is dribbling on the basketball court or kicking around a soccer ball, they're gaining much more than just physical fitness - they're building essential qualities for future success.

What is the Power of Play?

In recent years, there has been a growing body of research that suggests that athletic activities can help children develop important leadership skills. For example, a study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology found that children who participated in sports were more likely to display qualities such as self-confidence and assertiveness than those who did not participate in sports.

Other studies have shown that children who engage in physical activity are more likely to exhibit problem-solving skills and cooperative behavior. Additionally, active children tend to be more resilient and adaptable than their sedentary peers.

The benefits of play extend beyond the development of leadership skills. Play also helps children build physical strength, coordination, and cardiovascular endurance. Moreover, play provides an opportunity for children to socialize and learn how to interact with others.

Active children tend to be happier and healthier than their sedentary counterparts. In fact, evidence suggests that a lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for obesity, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions.

So what does all this research tell us? The Power of Play is evident in the many ways it can help children grow into happy, healthy, and successful adults.

How Athletics Foster Leadership Skills in Children

Athletics provide children with opportunities to develop leadership skills. Through athletics, children learn how to work together as a team, set goals, and overcome obstacles. These experiences can help children become better leaders in their future lives.

Athletics also teach children the importance of hard work and dedication. Children who are successful in athletics learn that they need to put in the time and effort to achieve their goals. This work ethic can carry over into other areas of their lives, such as academics and their future careers.

Lastly, athletics provide a chance for children to build confidence. Children who participate in athletics learn that they can succeed if they believe in themselves and put forth their best effort. This confidence can help them in all aspects of their lives.

1. Self-Confidence

Self-confidence is one of the most important traits that a leader can have. Athletic activities are a great way to foster this trait in children. Through sports, kids learn how to set goals and achieve them. They also learn how to overcome obstacles and handle disappointment. These skills are essential for anyone who wants to be a successful leader.

Athletic activities also teach children the importance of teamwork. In order to be successful, leaders need to be able to work well with others. Sports teach kids how to cooperate and communicate with their teammates. They also learn how to resolve conflicts and build relationships. These are all vital skills that will serve them well as leaders in the future.

2. Social Interactions

Most adults view playing sports as a fun pastime, but for kids, participating in sports has much more value. Playing sports gives children the opportunity to develop essential social skills. Through teamwork, children learn how to cooperate with others and resolve conflicts. They also learn how to communicate effectively and manage their emotions.

In addition to developing social skills, playing sports also helps children build confidence and become leaders. Children who are successful in athletics often have high self-esteem and are better able to handle disappointment. They also tend to be natural leaders, both on and off the field. By instilling a love of play in children, we can help them develop into well-rounded adults.

3. Goal Setting and Achieving Big Dreams

It's no secret that playing sports can teach children valuable life lessons. After all, sports are all about goal setting and achieving big dreams. From a young age, children are taught how to set goals and work hard to achieve them. They're also taught the importance of teamwork and how to be a good sport. All of these skills are essential for leadership.

In addition to teaching children valuable life lessons, playing sports can also foster their physical development. For example, running and jumping help improve coordination and balance. Playing team sports can also promote social development by teaching children how to interact with others and work together towards a common goal.

So whether your child is shooting hoops in the driveway or scoring goals on the soccer field, know that they're not just having fun – they're also learning important skills that will help them in life.

4. Learning to Lead by Example

In order to teach children the importance of leadership, it is important to lead by example. Setting a positive example for children to follow is one of the best ways to nurture their leadership skills. By being a role model, you can show children how to be responsible and display good character traits. Additionally, leading by example also demonstrates the power of teamwork and how working together can help achieve success.

Athletic activities are an excellent platform for teaching leadership skills as they require cooperation and communication among teammates. Through these activities, children can learn how to be leaders on and off the playing field. For example, soccer requires players to strategize and work together in order to score goals. This type of team play can teach children the importance of planning and execution in order to achieve a common goal. Basketball requires players to hustle and motivate each other in order to win games. This sport can teach children the value of perseverance and dedication when working towards a goal.

Ultimately, leading by example is one of the most effective ways to foster leadership skills in children. Athletic activities provide a great opportunity for children to learn

Implementing Sports into Your Child’s Life

While some parents may view sports as a frivolous activity, research has shown that there are many benefits to children participating in sports. Studies have shown that children who play sports have higher grades and are more likely to graduate from college. In addition, children who play sports are less likely to use drugs or alcohol and are less likely to become involved in gangs or other delinquent behavior.

Sports also teach children important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and how to handle winning and losing . These skills will help them be successful in whatever they choose to do in life. Participating in sports can also help build self-confidence and improve physical health.

So don’t wait until your child is a teenager to get them involved in sports. Start early and expose them to a variety of different activities. by doing so, you’ll give them a leg up on the competition – both in their future academic and career pursuits.

Overall, it’s clear that athletic activities can have a major impact on developing leadership skills in children. From building physical aptitude to learning important life lessons like communication and team work, there are countless ways that sports can help shape kids into leaders of the future. So if you want your child to become adept at taking charge and achieving their goals, why not give them the opportunity by enrolling them in an after-school sport or extracurricular activity?

At the EHT PAL Sportsplex , we offer a variety of sports leagues and programs for kids of all ages and interests. From Arena Soccer to Flag Football , Lacrosse , Dodgeball , Field Hockey and more, our programs are designed to be fun, engaging, and rewarding. To learn more about our sports offerings and how they can benefit your child, please visit the links above, or give us a call at (609) 645-8413. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to help your child become a leader on and off the field!

TrueSport and Disabled Sports USA Partner to Increase Education on Inclusivity in Youth Sports

“We join in partnership with TrueSport because we share a vision that sports should be an inclusive, positive, healthy, social experience for youth of all abilities,” said Glenn Merry, Executive Director of Disabled Sports USA.

In addition to increasing disability awareness through the partnership, TrueSport will utilize DSUSA’s training and education resources to help its audience of coaches, parents, and young athletes learn how to interact with athletes with disabilities and help them plan for success in and out of sport. For example, DSUSA provides expert resources that explain what language and behaviors help create a positive environment and sport experience for people with different disabilities, including visual, speech, mobility, or hearing impairments.

Reinforcing the importance of these topics and the partnership, research shows that sports can have a positive impact for people with disabilities. A Harris Interactive research study of more than 1,000 adults with disabilities showed that those participating in Disabled Sports USA adaptive sports programs had higher employment rates, were happier, and enjoyed higher socialization than those not participating in adaptive sports.

“TrueSport wants to help the youth sports community facilitate a more positive and inclusive environment for all young athletes,” said Lisa Voight, TrueSport Business Development Manager. “We’re looking forward to developing new expert-researched articles, videos, and coaching handouts that incorporate practical and specific advice on how to create that fun and safe space for all athletes.”

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How Sports Can Help Develop Your Creativity and Writing Skills

Engaging in sports can help develop your creativity and writing skills by providing an outlet to release stress and increase brain activity. Sports teach problem-solving skills at all ages and help develop the ability to think on your feet, translating into better writing skills.

LTC News Sponsored Content

Engaging in sports activities has been shown to positively impact creativity and writing skills across all age groups. Experts believe that participating in sports helps stimulate the brain and promote cognitive function, leading to increased creativity and enhanced writing skills.

Engaging in sports can help older adults maintain mental acuity and prevent cognitive decline. Studies have shown that regular exercise can increase brain volume and improve cognitive function, translating into enhanced creativity and writing skills. Additionally, participating in sports provides an opportunity to engage with others, fostering social connections and providing a sense of community, which can inspire writing.

For children and adolescents, sports provide an outlet for creative expression and exploration. Through team sports, young people learn to collaborate, communicate effectively, and develop critical thinking skills, all essential for creative writing. Additionally, physical activity has been linked to increased blood flow to the brain, which can enhance cognitive function and improve writing abilities.

There are students of all ages today, and writing is a vital part of education. Plus, many people, especially as they age, write for enjoyment or blogs for online expression.

It's a common situation when someone has to write an article, essay, or other assignment, but instead of making progress, they feel stuck and need help to get started.

The reasons for this can be varied, such as a lack of inspiration, a crisis of genre, a bad mood, or stress. During such moments, many people turn to special writing services for assistance, which is understandable.

If you find a good service with professional writers, you can be guaranteed a passing grade or praise from your professor. If you are writing a blog, you can engage your audience and get to interact with your content.

However, the most crucial thing when considering a writing service is distinguishing a good service from a bad one. We recommend reading reviews and checking the ratings of the company whose services you plan to use before making your final decision.

For example, just check the ratings of customwritings.com at scamfighter.net , and you'll find companies with better reputations.

However, there are always those workaholics who want to keep going and want to avoid paying for professional writing assistance. They want to do everything themselves, and this approach should be encouraged by professors and teachers. So, what can be done? How can we free our brains and writing skills from the trap of writer's block? We recommend changing activities.

Engaging in physical exercise can help our brains function more efficiently, forget about the difficulties we face, and start writing without feeling exhausted. Despite sounding strange, we suggest incorporating sports into your routine. Before you dismiss this idea, please read on, follow our advice, and enjoy the results.

To be a good writer, you need to be able to convey emotions effectively. You must be able to show, describe, understand, and provoke emotions. Essaypro company ratings is a reputable writing service that has received high ratings and positive reviews for their ability to effectively convey emotions through their writing.

What better way to improve your emotional intelligence than through dancing? Yes, don't dismiss the idea. Dancing with a partner can teach you how to interpret body language, facial expressions, and gestures without using words. It's one of the best ways to evoke emotions in a person. Dancing with a partner can also teach you how to listen and understand someone's expectations without using words. These skills can help you better understand your readers' or professors' expectations.

If you dance in a contemporary style, every move can be an improvisation, expressing your wishes and desires with your body language. If you can convey happiness or sorrow without using words, then you will have an easier time finding the right words to express yourself in your writing. So, dance and become a more creative writer.

It is a common prejudice that soccer players are not very intelligent. However, this is far from the truth. While it is true that some players may not have an IQ like Einstein, this is not unique to the sport. What's more, playing soccer at any age requires a high level of skill, strategy, and intelligence. Consider this: it's not just twenty-two players kicking a ball around. It's twenty-two individuals who can control a small, round object with their feet with incredible precision and ease. This is a remarkably difficult task, even for those who are skilled in throwing a ball with their hands.

Playing soccer requires the use of motor and cognitive skills that we may not typically use. Controlling a ball with your feet is not something that our brains are accustomed to doing. Therefore, playing soccer can help build new neural connections in the brain. These neural connections can improve cognitive function, including writing abilities. So, playing soccer can be a great way to improve your physical health and enhance your writing skills.

Watching and playing tennis can help develop your creativity. You might have heard someone saying that tennis is too dull, with long matches that are not exciting. However, it is wrong to assume that tennis is not a creative sport. In fact, tennis is an exciting and beautiful sport, almost like chess in motion.

In this game, not everything can be decided by techniques alone; you must be creative and know how to deal with unexpected situations. Look at great tennis players like Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer. It's impossible to predict their next move, and they demonstrate what creativity really is. If you lack this quality, then start playing or at least watching tennis, and you will soon notice the progress.

Tennis requires you to be creative in your shots and think outside the box, which can also translate to your writing skills. Therefore, watching or playing tennis can help you develop your creativity, especially when dealing with unexpected situations. This sport teaches you to think on your feet, and you need to devise a strategy to win the game.

Just like in tennis, you need to come up with new ideas and be creative in your writing to make it stand out. So, watching or playing tennis is an excellent place to start if you want to boost your creativity.

Horseback Riding

Riding horses is a beautiful activity for enhancing elegance and style. Moreover, it can positively impact your writing skills by teaching you to be less reserved and helping you eliminate negativity. In fact, horseback riding has been known to be an effective method for treating autism spectrum disorders in children, making it an excellent hobby and fear-reducing activity for people of all ages.

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Be sure you include an LTC policy as part of your retirement plan. Like most people, you will want access to quality care services, hopefully in your home rather than a facility. Although quality facilities exist, especially assisted living, which can also be an option. However, quality care is expensive.

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How to Teach Problem Solving Skills Like a Pro

Problem solving can be one of the most difficult things to teach children. It isn’t super cut and dry, and often times it can be simple to explain, but challenging for students to put into practice.

Here are the different ways I love to teach problem solving strategies to my students, and will make you a problem solving pro.

Problem Solving Strategies List

Have a script
Consistency, consistency, consistency
Kelso’s Choices
Realistic & Specific scenarios

Before we jump in- I am going to let you in on a little secret. When I am teaching my students problem-solving skills, I am typically referencing one of two things 1) my problem-solving posters and scenarios or 2) materials from Kelso’s choices. Kelso’s choices is a FANTASTIC, concrete way to give students action steps to take when they are trying to problem-solve.

I highly recommend incorporating Kelso’s choices from the beginning of the school year, and consistently teaching your students how to use it.

1. Have a Script

When you are teaching younger students how to problem solve, it may seem like they should know what to say and when to say it. You ask them, and they can tell you what should happen… and somehow, when that moment comes where there is disagreement…you still are hearing that yelling and screaming that you were hoping to avoid.

Here’s the thing- students need more help with these skills than we think, and that is why I believe it is crucial to have posted scripts for students to use to talk through their problems.

2. Consistency, consistency, consistency

Yup, you guessed it. You can’t just teach problem solving skills once or twice, and expect students to have it perfect. Just like with a new math or reading skill, problem solving takes time. LOTS of time- and lots of practice. Any time you can, have students practice their problem solving skills. Teach whole group and small group lessons on problem solving regularly. Choose one strategy, and teach it as often and consistently as you can.

Also- make sure to catch students working through problems IN THE MOMENT. Talking about it after is helpful, but not as helpful as if you can pull students aside as they are working through a problem, and guide them through it.

Some of the things I tell students before we do a ‘Talk it Out’ is:

-When student A is talking, you will wait to speak. I want you to focus on LISTENING to what they are saying. When Student B is talking, you will stay quiet, and focus on LISTENING.

-Then, I will have student A explain how THEY are feeling (and not what they think the other student did wrong). Then Student B shares their feelings.

-Afterwards, I help the students lead their own discussion on coming up with a solution to the problem.

3. Roleplay

How do actors memorize their lines? They act out their script until they have it memorized. Give your students opportunities to practice solving made up, but realistic, scenarios.

4. Kelso’s Choices

I love Kelso’s Choices . You can access the Kelso’s Choices poster (and other free resources) by clicking here , or, if you are feeling fancy, there is an entire curriculum that can give you some easy, low prep lessons to work on with students.

(If you are someone who prefers to have things ready to go, this is for you. For example, look at this Conflict Management kit! Tell your principal and counselor how awesome it is, and see if they can squeeze it into the budget.)

I introduce Kelso’s Choices at the beginning of the school year. I have the poster hung in the classroom, we look at the wheel, and I play this Kelso’s Choices Rap for students. (It is super silly and engaging.)

Over the first few weeks (or sets of lessons if you don’t see students every day), we really dig into what each choice looks like and means. I also love the motions that this counselor adds to her lessons.

Then, we use scenarios to practice which choice we might choose, and why.

Lastly, we act out those scenarios, so we get lots of practice.

Students know that they need to choose two Kelso’s Choices to try before they come get a teacher to help.

5. Realistic & Specific Scenarios

Last but not least, make your practice scenarios realistic . If you ask a student what they might do if someone has something they want, or they want to join into a game- that is important. But really dig into the specifics of these issues when you practice. Think of every day scenarios, and don’t just practice the original scenario, but what happens NEXT.

What if you ask someone if you can join their game, and they tell you no ? What if you left your homework at home and you already tried to call your grown-up, and they didn’t answer the phone ? If your friend says something mean to you multiple times and you already told them you didn’t like it ? I have a bunch of specific problem-solving scenarios in this product!

Be sure that when you have students practice, your scenarios are realistic and specific.

Overall, when you are teaching problem solving skills to your students, really focus on the specifics, your consistency, and regular practice!

11 of My Favorite Videos to Teach Gratitude

Teamwork And Talk: How Sports Enhance Children’s Communication Skills

Effective communication is a vital skill that children need to develop as they grow and learn. One way in which children can enhance their communication skills is through participation in sports activities.

Playing sports requires teamwork, cooperation, and coordination, all of which are important components of effective communication. Sports provide an environment where children can practice communicating with others while working towards achieving common goals.

This kind of interaction helps them develop essential life skills such as active listening , problem-solving, conflict resolution, and negotiation. In this article, we will explore how participating in team sports enhances children’s communication skills and why it is crucial for parents and educators to encourage young ones to engage in physical activities that promote teamwork and talk.

The Importance Of Communication Skills For Children

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction. It allows us to express ourselves, convey our thoughts and emotions, connect with others, and build relationships.

For children, communication skills are critical for their social development as it enables them to navigate the world around them effectively. Two essential components of effective communication are assertiveness and empathy. Assertive communication involves expressing oneself confidently while respecting the opinions of others. Empathy, on the other hand, refers to understanding another person’s feelings or perspective.

In addition to verbal communication, nonverbal cues play a crucial role in shaping one’s social skills. Nonverbal communication includes body language such as facial expressions, tone of voice, posture, and gestures that often reveal more than words alone.

Children who develop an awareness of these signals can learn how to read others accurately and communicate their own intentions better. Furthermore, sports provide an excellent platform for promoting positive behavior and good communication skills among children.

By participating in team activities like sports games or practices, they learn valuable lessons about working together towards a common goal while learning how to communicate effectively with peers from diverse backgrounds without prejudice or bias towards anyone different from themselves.

Developing Teamwork And Coordination Through Sports

Participating in sports activities is an excellent way for children to develop their communication skills. Through playing team-based games, kids learn how to communicate with others effectively while striving towards a common goal. With practice, they become better at coordinating with their teammates and communicating their ideas.

Skill building exercises can aid the development of communication skills in children. For instance, coaches may set up drills that require players to pass the ball around quickly without letting it touch the ground or use non-verbal cues such as hand gestures or eye contact to indicate where they want the ball passed. These drills help players hone their coordination and communication abilities.

Additionally, fun-filled activities like relay races promote teamwork by requiring participants to work together closely to achieve a shared objective. As children engage in these types of events regularly, they’ll improve not only their physical fitness but also their social skills.

In summary, sports provide ample opportunities for young people to enhance their communication skills through skill-building exercises and fun-filled activities that promote teamwork and coordination among peers. Coaches play an essential role in creating an environment conducive to effective collaboration by setting up appropriate training sessions and facilitating healthy competition between teams. By participating in athletics from a young age, children will acquire valuable life-long skills that will serve them well both on and off the field.

Cooperation And Collaboration In Sports Activities

As children engage in sports, they develop not only their physical abilities but also critical communication skills. Developing teamwork and coordination through sports is just one aspect of how these activities can enhance a child’s communicative capabilities. As such, cooperation and collaboration are natural progressions for young athletes as they continue to hone their communication skills.

Sports provide ample leadership opportunities for children, allowing them to take charge of various aspects of the game or activity. By leading warm-ups, practicing drills with teammates, or even strategizing during games, children learn the value of clear communication and delegation of responsibilities. Moreover, building trust is an essential component of successful team dynamics that allows players to rely on each other when necessary.

Children who participate in sports gain invaluable experience working together towards common goals while simultaneously learning how to communicate effectively both on and off the field.

Cooperation and collaboration in sports activities lead to improved communication skills among children. They learn how to work well with others by taking up leadership roles and trusting their peers. The resulting growth in confidence makes it easier for kids to speak up at school or home without fear of judgment from others about what they have to say.

In turn, this enables them to be more empathetic listeners who appreciate diverse perspectives rather than merely considering their own views alone. Ultimately, sports empower young minds by teaching them valuable life lessons beyond athletic performance – including better communication skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Active Listening And Problem-Solving On The Field

Effective communication involves not only speaking but also listening. Children who participate in sports learn how to actively listen to their teammates, coaches, and opponents. Active listening is a skill that requires concentration and focus. When players are engaged in active listening, they can better understand instructions from their coach or teammate’s feedback on how to improve performance.

Furthermore, during games, children must be able to listen carefully to their teammates’ calls for passes or directions while keeping an eye out for opposition movements. Peer support is another essential aspect of teamwork in sports that helps develop problem-solving skills. Peer support occurs when team members work together to help each other overcome difficulties or achieve goals.

When children participate in sports, they learn how to cooperate with others by supporting them through encouragement, empathy, and understanding. This kind of peer support builds positive relationships among team members and promotes trust between individuals.

Strategies for conflict resolution:

Encourage open communication: Coaches should encourage open communication between players by creating a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable talking about problems.
Develop mutual respect: Team members should treat each other with respect regardless of differences in opinions or personalities.
Practice compromise: Players should learn how to find common ground when disagreements arise instead of trying to win at all costs.

Through effective coaching and peer support, children can learn valuable strategies for conflict resolution that will serve them well throughout life. By promoting active listening and problem-solving on the field, sports provide an excellent opportunity for young athletes to develop important communication skills that will benefit them both inside and outside the game.

Conflict Resolution And Negotiation In Sports Settings

One of the most significant benefits of sports is that it teaches children how to resolve conflicts effectively. Conflict resolution skills are essential for their success, not only in sports but also in life.

In a sports setting, players often work together towards a common goal, which can lead to disagreements and arguments. However, when handled correctly, these disputes can become opportunities for communication and growth.

Role playing scenarios and teaching empathy are two effective methods for helping children develop conflict resolution skills. Through role-playing scenarios, coaches can simulate situations where players must learn to communicate with each other respectfully while addressing disagreements. Teaching empathy helps them understand others’ perspectives by putting themselves in another’s shoes. By incorporating these techniques into training sessions, coaches can help young athletes learn how to handle conflicts maturely.

Mediation techniques are also critical tools that sports coaches should equip themselves with. These strategies can be used to teach players how to mediate discussions between conflicting parties impartially. Coaches who implement mediation techniques demonstrate leadership qualities that will positively impact their team’s dynamics both on and off the field/court.

Moreover, mediation provides an opportunity for children to learn from each other as they exchange ideas and opinions during the process of resolving disputes amicably. Ultimately, conflict resolution skills learned through participation in sports contribute significantly to molding well-rounded individuals capable of handling life’s challenges admirably without resorting to hostility or aggression.

Encouraging Children To Participate In Team Sports For Better Communication Skills

Participating in team sports can be an excellent way for children to develop their communication skills. The experience of working within a team will require them to communicate effectively with teammates and coaches, which can help them learn how to express themselves clearly and listen attentively. Additionally, playing sports often involves making quick decisions under pressure, which requires strong communication skills.

Parental involvement is essential when it comes to encouraging children to participate in team sports. Parents should take the time to research different options available and find a sport that interests their child. They can then enroll their child in a local program or sign up for community leagues.

Furthermore, parents must teach their children sportsmanship by emphasizing fair play and respect for others on and off the field.

In conclusion, participating in team sports provides numerous benefits beyond just physical fitness. It offers opportunities for children to develop valuable communication skills while learning teamwork and leadership abilities as well. With parental support and proper guidance towards good sportsmanship, kids can enjoy all these advantages while having fun competing alongside peers who share similar passions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some specific examples of sports activities that can improve children’s communication skills.

In order to improve children’s communication skills through sports activities, there are specific approaches that can be utilized.

Role playing scenarios is one effective method as it allows children to practice their communication in a simulated environment. By providing them with various situations and roles to play, they develop the ability to express themselves in different contexts, improving their overall communicative competence.

Group brainstorming exercises also foster better communication among children by encouraging active participation and collaboration. Through this activity, they learn how to articulate their ideas clearly while respecting other people’s opinions, thus enhancing both listening and speaking skills.

Overall, incorporating these types of activities into sports programs can greatly benefit children’s communication development while also promoting teamwork and socialization.

How Do Children Who Participate In Team Sports Compare In Their Communication Skills To Those Who Do Not?

As communication skills and sports education writer, it is interesting to explore the relationship between children’s participation in team sports and their communication styles. The ability to effectively communicate ideas, thoughts, and emotions is a fundamental aspect of interpersonal relationships that has far-reaching implications for social development.

Research shows that participating in team sports can enhance communication skills by providing opportunities for interaction with peers, coaches, and other adults. Moreover, nonverbal cues such as body language play an essential role in effective communication, especially during physical activities like sports where verbal expression may be limited.

Therefore, children who participate in team sports are more likely to develop better communication skills than those who do not engage in these activities.

Can Children Who Are Naturally Introverted Or Shy Benefit From Participating In Team Sports In Terms Of Communication Skills?

Participating in team sports can be a great opportunity for children who are naturally shy or introverted to overcome their shyness and build confidence.

Through teamwork, communication skills often improve as players learn to effectively communicate with one another both on and off the field. This is particularly true for those who may struggle with social interactions outside of sports-related scenarios.

By working together towards common goals, children have the chance to develop important life skills such as leadership, problem-solving, and conflict resolution while also improving their ability to express themselves confidently and clearly.

Overall, the benefits of participating in team sports extend far beyond physical fitness alone; they can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth that will serve children well throughout their lives.

What Are Some Strategies Coaches And Parents Can Use To Encourage Effective Communication Among Team Members?

The irony of the current H2 is that although communication skills are a crucial aspect of team sports, they do not always come naturally to children. Therefore, coaches and parents must be proactive in their involvement and use effective coaching techniques to encourage communication among team members.

This involves creating an environment where every child feels comfortable expressing themselves, actively listening to others, and providing constructive feedback.

Additionally, parental involvement can extend beyond game day by practicing active listening at home and modeling healthy communication habits.

By prioritizing effective communication in youth sports, coaches and parents can equip children with essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the playing field.

How Can The Skills Learned Through Sports Communication Be Applied To Other Areas Of A Child’s Life, Such As School Or Social Situations?

Communication skills learned through sports can be applied to other areas of a child’s life, such as school or social situations.

Classroom applications include using positive reinforcement and role-playing exercises to encourage effective communication among peers.

Social benefits arise from the ability to communicate effectively with others in various settings, leading to stronger relationships and increased self-confidence.

By practicing communication skills in a team environment during sports activities, children are better equipped to handle similar situations outside of athletics.

These skills also translate well into academic and professional settings where collaboration is crucial for success.

Participating in team sports can significantly enhance children’s communication skills. Specific activities such as passing drills, huddles, and game strategy sessions require players to listen actively, provide constructive feedback, and work together to achieve a common goal. Research shows that children who participate in team sports have better communication abilities than those who do not.

Even introverted or shy children can benefit from participating in team sports since such experiences help them develop social skills and build their confidence. Coaches and parents must encourage effective communication among team members through various strategies such as role-playing exercises, clear instructions, active listening training, positive reinforcement, and group discussions.

According to a survey conducted by the Youth Sports Institute at Michigan State University (2018), around 70% of employers consider teamwork and communication as essential job skills when hiring new employees.

Thus, it is vital for young athletes to apply the communication skills they learn on the playing field to other areas of life like school or social situations. Ultimately, participation in team sports provides an excellent opportunity for children to improve their communication abilities while having fun with friends and learning valuable life lessons that will benefit them well into adulthood.

How eSports Help Students Cultivate Soft Skills

eSports is on a trajectory to become the largest sport in the world. According to Activate Technology and Media Outlook 2020 , the industry is expected hit $7 billion by 2023. However, for many eSports players, there are unexpected benefits in participating. Educators, parents, and eSports athletes themselves note that participating in eSports helps students build critical soft skills, from stronger communication to collaboration and teamwork skills. Here’s a closer look at some of the latest insights from the field and how an eSports program could help your school prepare your students for tomorrow’s most challenging academic and career opportunities.

On the Importance of Soft Skills

According to a recent piece in the Harvard Business Review , one of the most critical areas for skills development is soft skills. As many as 50% of jobs are likely to be automated by 2024. Today’s students can help prepare for the future of work by not only focusing on their technical and hard skills, but also on developing their soft skills.

As the authors note, “ In one survey , 93% of employers reported that ‘a candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems is more important than his or her undergraduate major.’ In addition, employers seek candidates who have other sorts of ‘soft skills,’ such as being able to learn adaptively, to make good decisions and to work well with others. These sought-after abilities, of course, fit perfectly with the sorts of things that people can do well, but are and will continue to be difficult to automate.”

In other words, even the most sophisticated technology struggles to replicate factors such as emotional intelligence, the ability to understand and adapt decision-making changes to context, and creativity and collaboration. Students can develop important competitive advantages for their future academic and professional performance by focusing on the soft skills that eSports participation provides. The latest research and interviews with industry professionals suggests that eSports is a perfect training ground to let students test and develop these skills.

eSports Cultivates Teamwork

There are numerous studies on the benefits of teamwork, which have led traditional recommendations in the classroom that students participate in team sports. But for students with different interests or different physical capabilities, being signing up for the football team or joining Little League isn’t always a possibility. However, eSports relies primarily on technology and is a very inclusive option for a wider range of students. eSports helps develop teamwork skills that include communication, collaboration, and learning how to work effectively with others.

One study in The Sports Journal notes that researchers, “identified team dynamics and communication as potential barriers for esports players in achieving optimal performance. Contrary to stereotypical perception of gamers, esports players need to communicate with teammates effectively and operate as a team member. Furthermore, collective intelligence has been identified as a predictor for the performance of esports teams (Engel et al., 2017). It would seem that group dynamics plays a critical role in team performance for esports in a similar way it does for traditional sports.” Fostering these skills can help students in future academic endeavors, career, and transitioning to leadership roles.

Developing Strong Team-based Problem-Solving Skills

Another advantage that esports offers is the ability to help students develop problem-solving skills under pressure and working collaboratively with others. Dr. Mimi Ito, Professor of Cultural Anthropology at UC Irvine, has conducted research on how students engage with digital technology and notes that it takes significant hard work to excel at eSports.

In an interview with the North American Scholastic Esports Federation , Ito notes “eSports provides a way for young people to hang out with their friends in a really active and positive way… Students are engaged in 21st century skills and problem-solving, and they’re understanding how to connect their own problem-solving with a whole community of players.”

Success at eSports Fosters Self-confidence

Self-confidence is a soft skill that enables students to take on challenges and broaden their horizons. As ET notes, “Achieving and excelling at competitive gaming in a learning environment can do wonders for students who love gaming but may not show any particular interest in traditional curriculum sports and activities. By offering eSports as an alternative, students are given the choice of taking up something they truly enjoy which helps improve self-confidence in their own abilities.” Students that find success in eSports may be more willing to take risks, try new things, and believe in their ability to succeed at challenging endeavors.

Competition, Competitiveness, and Much More

It’s estimated that there are 125 varsity college teams participating in competitive eSports leagues today, and the number is increasing annually. By taking part in competitive activities, students are building a number of soft skills. Often, the popular eSports games rely on teams of players working together to win, rather than the prowess of individual players. Learning how to compete effectively supports an array of skills, from the importance of time management and developing a strong ethic to managing losses in a healthy way and rejoicing in their own success. If you need to build a strong case for hosting an esports team at your school, the effectiveness of cultivating soft skills can help. eSports have opened a new avenue of exploration and performance for students. From creating an inclusive environment for students with a wide ranges skills and abilities to helping cultivate stronger teamwork and collaboration, eSports fosters the vital soft skills that will help students be competitive in the future job market.

Liz Alton is a B2B technology and digital marketing writer and content strategist. She has worked with a variety of brands including Google, Twitter, Adobe, Oracle, and HP, and written for publications including Forbes. She is a regular contributor to Connected, Connection’s official blog.

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Can Video Gameplay Improve Undergraduates’ Problem-Solving Skills?

Benjamin emihovich.

University of Michigan - Flint, Flint, USA

Nelson Roque

Pennsylvania State University, State College, USA

Justin Mason

University of Florida, Gainesville, USA

In this study, the authors investigated if two distinct types of video gameplay improved undergraduates’ problem-solving skills. Two groups of student participants were recruited to play either a roleplaying video game (World of Warcraft; experimental group) or a brain-training video game (CogniFit; control group). Participants were measured on their problem-solving skills before and after 20 hours of video gameplay. Two measures were used to assess problem-solving skills for this study, the Tower of Hanoi and The PISA Problem Solving Test. The Tower of Hanoi measured the rule application component of problem-solving skills and the PISA Problem Solving test measured transfer of problem-solving skills from video gameplay to novel scenarios on the test. No significant differences were found between the two groups on either problem-solving measure. Implications for future studies on game- based learning are discussed.

Introduction

Video games are played by more than half of the U.S population and the video game industry generated $36 billion in 2018 ( ESA, 2018 ). Given the popularity and success of the video game industry, game- based scholars are exploring how well-designed video games can be used to improve a wide range of knowledge, skills, and abilities referred to as game-based learning (GBL). Proponents of GBL argue that well-designed video games are grounded by active participation and interaction as the focal point of the learner experience and can lead to changes in behavior and cognition ( Ifenthaler, Eseryel, & Ge, 2012 ; Shute et al., 2019 ). Moreover, well-designed video games immerse players in environments that can provide a framework for learning experiences by promoting engagement and transfer from simulated worlds to the natural world ( Dede, 2009 ).

Current American students are not receiving adequate exposure to authentic ill-structured problem-solving scenarios in their classrooms, and schools need to address the acquisition of problem-solving skills for students in the 21st century ( Shute & Wang, 2016 ). American students trail their international counterparts in problem-solving skills on the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) Problem Solving Test. Furthermore, American business leaders complain about recent college graduates’ lack of problem-solving skills. Two surveys conducted by the Association of American Colleges and Universities of business leaders and students indicated that problem-solving skills are increasingly desirable for American employers, but only 38% of employers reported that recently hired American college graduates could analyze and solve complex problems while working ( Hart Associates, 2018 ).

Researchers of video game studies find that gameplay can be positively associated with the improvement of problem-solving skills ( Shute, Ventura, & Ke, 2015 ; Spires et al., 2011 ). However, current discourse in the field of gameplay and problem-solving skills centers primarily on descriptive research ( Eseryel et al., 2014 ) which can be summarized based on the following premise: video games require players to solve problems, and over time, playing video games will lead to improved problem- solving skills ( Hung & Van Eck, 2010 ). Descriptive research is important to argue that video games support problem-solving skills, but further empirical research is needed to demonstrate whether problem-solving skills are acquired through video gameplay. This research study addressed whether two distinct types of video gameplay empirically affects undergraduates’ problem-solving skills.

Video Games and Problem-Solving Skills

According to Mayer and Wittrock’s (2006) definition, problem solving includes four central characteristics: (1) occurs internally to the problem solver’s cognitive system; (2) is a process that involves conceptualizing and manipulating knowledge; (3) is goal directed; and (4) is dependent on the knowledge and skills of the problem solver to establish the difficulty in which obstacles must be overcome to reach a solution. Unlike the well-structured problems that students face in formal learning settings, well-designed games provide students with challenging scenarios that promote problem-solving skills by requiring players to generate new knowledge from challenging scenarios within interactive environments, while also providing immersive gameplay that includes ongoing feedback for the players to hone their problem-solving skills over time ( Van Eck, Shute, & Rieber, 2017 ). Rules govern video gameplay mechanics and one component of problem solving is the ability to apply existing rules in the problem space known as rule application ( Shute et al., 2015 ). One example of a rule application is found in the well-researched problem-solving puzzle the Tower of Hanoi ( Huyck & Kreivenas, 2018 ; Schiff & Vakil, 2015 ; TOH, 2019 ). The rule application component of problem-solving skill is one of the dependent variables in this study. Rule application refers to the problem-solver’s representation of the problem space through direct action, which is critical to problem solving ( Van Eck et al., 2017 ).

Literature Review

Video gameplay and transfer.

Researchers contend that the hidden power of well-designed video games is their potential to address higher-level learning, like retention, transfer, and problem-solving skills ( Gee, 2008 ; Shute & Wang, 2015 ). Retention is the ability to remember the presented information and correctly recall it when needed, while transfer is the ability to apply previously learned information in a novel situation ( Stiller & Schworm, 2019 ). Possible outcomes of playing video games may include the improvement of collaborative problem-solving skills, confidence, and leadership skills that are transferable to the workforce environment. Recent research on video game training studies and transfer of cognitive and noncognitive skills indicates that gameplay is positively associated with the improvement of attention, problem-solving skills, persistence ( Green & Bavelier, 2012 ; Rowe et al., 2011 ; Shute et al., 2015 ; Ventura et al., 2013 ), executive functions ( Oei & Patterson, 2014 ), and hypothesis testing strategies ( Spires et al., 2011 ). However, other researchers have found null effects of video gameplay and transfer of cognitive skills ( Ackerman, et al., 2010 ; Baniqued, Kranz, et al., 2013 ; Boot et al., 2008 ).

A recent meta-analysis of brain-training interventions found that brain-training interventions can improve performance on trained tasks but there were fewer examples of interventions indicating improved performance on closely related tasks, and minimal evidence that training enhances performance on daily cognitive abilities ( Simons et al., 2016 ). Among those finding null effects, questions were raised about the methodological shortcomings of video game training and transfer studies that are common pitfalls in experimental trials. Some of the pitfalls included failing to report full methods used in a study and lack of an effective active control condition that can expect to see similar improvement in competencies as the experimental group ( Baniqued et al., 2013 ; Boot, 2015 ; Boot, Blakely & Simons, 2011 ). Unless researchers define recruitment methods for participants and their gaming expertise (novice vs. expert), as well as compare active control groups with experimental groups receiving equal training games, then differential improvement is indeterminable ( Boot et al., 2013 ; Shute et al., 2015 ). The recruitment approach is outlined in the Method section.

Motivation for Selection of Games

The video games selected for this research study were based on the problem-solving skills players exercise and acquire through gameplay that were aligned with the problem-solving skills assessed on the external measures, the PISA Problem Solving Test and the Tower of Hanoi (TOH). Well-designed video games include sound learning principles embedded within gameplay such as requiring players to solve complex problems which can then be applied to other learning contexts ( Lieberman et al., 2014 ). In this study, the authors examined the effects of playing World of Warcraft ( Activision Blizzard, 2019 ) and CogniFit ( CogniFit, 2019 ) for twenty hours on undergraduates’ problem-solving skills (rule application and problem-solving transfer). The inclusion of CogniFit addresses a main concern of game-based research which is the lack of an active control condition to determine differential improvement ( Boot et al., 2013 ).

Problem-Solving and Video Gameplay Model

The authors have identified observable in-game behaviors (i.e., indicators) during gameplay that provide evidence for each of the problem-solving processes on the PISA Problem Solving Test. The process included playing each video game extensively, checking community forums for solutions to the most challenging problems for each game, and viewing experts’ gameplay video channel streams on YouTube. After generating a list of credible indicators, those selected were based on the following criteria: (a) relevance to the PISA problem solving levels of proficiency and (b) verifiable through gameplay mechanics. Examples of indicators for the PISA problem-solving processes for each game are listed in Tables 1 and and2. 2 . The purpose of developing the problem-solving behavior model is to operationalize the indicators of gameplay that align with the cognitive processes being assessed on the PISA test (i.e., Exploring and Understanding, Representing and Formulating). The PISA Problem Solving Test contains questions representing six levels of proficiency: Level 1 is the most limited form of problem-solving ability such as rule application (solving problems with simple rules or constraints) and Level 6 is the complex form of problem-solving ability (executing strategies and developing mental models to solve problems). The PISA test will determine whether there is transfer of problem-solving skills from video gameplay to novel scenarios.

Examples of indicators for each PISA problem-solving process in Warcraft

Examples of indicators for each PISA problem-solving process in CogniFit

World of warcraft

Massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) require players to manage resources, adapt playstyle to the environment, test new skills and abilities, identify and apply rules to solve problems as well as explore the story of the game through questing. MMORPGs like Warcraft provide gameplay experiences that are analogous to meaningful instruction by offering complex multifaceted problems that require model-based reasoning—understanding interrelated components of a system, and feedback mechanisms among the components to find the best solutions to problems that arise using available tools and resources in a given environment ( Chinn & Malhotra, 2002 ; Steinkuehler & Chmiel, 2006 ). Therefore, if MMORPGs provide an authentic sense of inquiry into solving problems through gameplay, then it is worth testing whether these gameplay experiences transfer to novel problem-solving scenarios.

One specific example of transfer from gameplay in the MMORPG Warcraft to a natural context concerns the problem of reducing travel time. When players enter the game environment, they must account for extended travel time between different activities such as exploration, questing, and combat. To solve this problem, players are given a tool that can be accessed on their user interface by pressing (M) on their keyboard, which opens the map. Listed on the map are designated flight paths (FPs) that act as a taxi service for players. The image in Figure 1 indicates the various FPs a player has unlocked on their world map as well as those that have yet to be discovered ( Activision Blizzard, 2019 ). The flight path is a handy tool because it connects the goal of completing quests as soon as possible to earn rewards with the knowledge that using flight paths greatly reduces travel time between quests. Greatly reducing travel time results in a more efficient way to complete many of the sub goals in the game, and as noted by Shute and Wang (2016) the use of tools and resources efficiently is an important part of problem solving during gameplay.

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Player map listing flight path locations in World of Warcraft (2019)

Now, consider one of the questions being assessed on an external measure in the study, the PISA Problem Solving Test. Individuals are given a map that shows the roads between each city, a partially filled-in key that shows distances between cities in kilometers, and the overall layout of the area. The purpose of this question is to assess how individuals calculate the shortest distance from one city to another. To solve the problem, individuals are required to calculate the distance between the two cities of Nuben and Kado using the resources available. This is the same kind of problem that Warcraft players experience during gameplay when travelling between locations to complete quests. Both problem scenarios share the same overlapping components, the ability of the problem solver to use given tools and resources efficiently to find the most direct route that reduces travel time between two separate locations. Figure 2 illustrates this problem scenario on the PISA test ( OECD, 2003 ).

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Problem scenario for planning the best route for a trip from PISA (2003)

The brain training game CogniFit claims to have developed a patented system that measures, trains, and monitors cognitive skills like rule application, attention, memory, and visual perception and their relation to neurological pathologies. According to the CogniFit (2019) website the company states there are transfer effects from their mini games to problem solving in the natural world. The brain training game is selected as an active control condition based on this claim as well as repeated practice of rule application embedded into the gameplay experience.

One example of rule application in the brain training game CogniFit occurs in the mini-game Gem Breaker 3D. This mini-game requires players to direct a paddle back and forth across the screen to bounce a ball off the paddle that breaks the gem blocks without letting the ball touch the bottom of the screen. The initial tutorial informs players that improvement of their hand-eye coordination and processing speed skills are emphasized through gameplay with over 100 levels available to master. Feedback is provided to players with a score for each level showing where they can improve. Once all gem blocks are broken the level is completed and a new level begins. However, each player only has access to 4 balls for each level, and if they lose, the game reverts to the beginning. The tutorial shows players how to use the mouse to control the paddle back and forth across the screen while the spacebar launches the ball. Once a gem is broken there is a chance for a power-up to be gained such as shooting multiple balls, explosives, missiles, side quests or power-ups. Figure 3 illustrates the rules of the mini-game in Gem Breaker 3D ( CogniFit, 2019 ).

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Rules for the mini-game Gem Breaker 3D listed in the initial tutorial (2019)

Rule application occurs when playing the TOH and requires one to move an entire stack of disks (i.e., a number between 3 and 8) of varied sizes from one of three rods to another. While playing, players are constrained by the following rules: (1) only one disk can be moved at a time; (2) no disk can be placed on a smaller one; (3) only the uppermost disk can be moved on a stack. Rule application is demonstrated by the problem solver in the TOH by configuring the disks and the rods to reach a solution in the problem space. By configuring the disks onto the rods, each move of a disk indicates the problem solver attempting to creatively apply the rules, which is vital to problem solving ( Shute et al., 2019 ). Figure 4 illustrates the problem space in an online version of the TOH (2019) .

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Problem space in an online version of the Tower of Hanoi puzzle with 5 disks (2019)

Both video games require players to apply rules to solve problems and rule application is a component of problem solving ( Van Eck et al., 2017 ). As an example, Warcraft players learn that they can only cast certain spells in combat while standing still or that eating and drinking food while sitting down hastens the regeneration of health. Similarly, when playing the mini-game Gem Breaker 3D in CogniFit players use a paddle and a ball to break bricks. One of the first rules players encounter in the game is that they can only move the paddle left or right across the screen or that bonus bricks have special effects like increasing ball speed. The rules are more explicit in CogniFit than Warcraft so brain-training gameplay may promote better performance on solving the TOH. Each move with the paddle and ball is an example of applying the rules, and this is frequently done during gameplay in CogniFit .

However, CogniFit mini-games lack some of the salient gameplay features in Warcraft such as roleplaying gameplay, meaningful interactions with other players, and richly designed problem spaces that GBL scholars suggest are important to the transfer of problem-solving skills from video gameplay to novel contexts measured on the PISA Problem Solving Test. Warcraft gameplay provides players with repeated practice to solve authentic ill-structured problems in rich detailed problem-solving scenarios that may be better suited for transfer to novel scenarios on the test.

Research Questions

After describing the video gameplay conditions of Warcraft and CogniFit as well as reviewing the literature on problem-solving skills, the authors seek to answer the following research questions:

Is there a change, from pretest to posttest, on the rule-application component of problem solving, after 20 hours of video gameplay, on either a role playing or brain-training video game?
Does an immersive, collaborative role-playing video game promote transfer of problem-solving skills to novel scenarios better than a brain-training video game for undergraduates after 20 hours of video gameplay?

Setting and Participants

For this study, 91 undergraduate student participants (M Age = 19.32; SD Age = 1.43) were recruited to participate in this study and completed the initial questionnaire for the study, assessing: age, gender, ethnicity, major, and video games played daily. Participants were not invited to participate if they were not students at the data-collecting institution, were not 18–23 years old, or if they reported playing 30 or more minutes of Warcraft or CogniFit . 56 participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group Warcraft or the control group CogniFit , yet only 34 completed the study ( n = 17 per group). Participant attrition for both groups were attributed to lack of time to complete the study or being too busy with schoolwork. Given the nature of our research questions assessing change as a function of training, subsequently presented analyses only include data from the 34 participants (17 males and 17 females) who completed the study (M Age = 19.44; SD Age = 1.41).

The independent variable in this research study is the video game with two levels: a roleplaying video game ( Warcraft ) and a brain-training video game ( CogniFit ). The video games provide players with repeated problem-solving scenarios requiring players to engage in problem-solving processes. The dependent variable measured for this study is problem-solving skill. One measure assessed the component of rule application of problem solving to solve a puzzle which is the TOH. The second measure assessed problem-solving in novel scenarios which is the PISA Problem Solving Test. Both groups were assessed on the TOH and the PISA Problem Solving Test. The TOH was used to assess research question 1 and the PISA Problem Solving Test was used to assess research question 2.

The Tower of Hanoi

Recall, the TOH is a valid and reliable experimental paradigm that can be used to assess rule application, problem solving and transfer ( Huyck & Kreivenas, 2018 ; Schiff & Vakil, 2015 ). Rule application is demonstrated by the problem solver in the TOH by configuring the disks and the rods to reach a solution in the problem space. By configuring the disks on to the rods, each move of a disk indicates the problem solver attempting to creatively apply the rules. Participants played the TOH on a computer from a free website online. The test score (i.e., lower scores are better) for completing the TOH can range anywhere from 31 (which is the minimal number of moves to execute) until it is solved.

PISA Problem Solving Test

The second external problem-solving measure in this study is the (2003) version of the PISA Problem Solving Test. The PISA Problem Solving Test ( OECD, 2003 ) contains 10 novel problem-solving scenarios, and within each scenario there is a range of one to three different questions that must be solved. There are 19 total questions on the test across all scenarios that required students to solve problems. For this study, participants completed five novel problem-solving scenarios for the pretest and the remaining five novel problem-solving scenarios for the posttest. The levels of proficiency for each question are randomized across all problem-solving scenarios. Each problem-solving scenario is independent from one another and each of the 19 questions across all scenarios being assessed in this study are isomorphic from the questions that were implemented in 2003. The scoring for most questions was either correct or incorrect, with some questions allowing for partially correct answers. Participants that answered each question correctly were awarded one point, while partially correct answers awarded participants a half-point.

Participants for this study were recruited via flyers posted publicly on campus and dormitory bulletin boards. Over the course of eight weeks, participants engaged in 10 gameplay sessions that lasted two hours each. Participants had the opportunity to complete these 10 sessions in two-hour time-blocks that were made available Monday through Friday for eight consecutive weeks. Participants completed the experiment in a classroom lab on campus at the university. In this experiment, student participants were randomly assigned to play one of two video games.

Participants in the experimental condition played the popular roleplaying video game Warcraft that promotes learning new terminologies, mastering interrelated skills and abilities, applying rules to solve problems, goal setting, and reflecting on progress. In addition, participants in the active control condition played the brain-training video game CogniFit (2019) . The video game allows players to select various mini-games including Gem Breaker 3D that may enhance cognitive abilities including rule application, memory, and focus. Student participants in this study were guided by discovery learning and provided with in-game tutorials for each condition while learning to solve problems through active exploration, interacting with the game environment and self-direction ( Westera, 2019 ). At pre-test and post-test participants had 20 minutes to complete isomorphic versions of the TOH as many times as possible. All participants successfully completed the TOH once during the pretest and once during the posttest. At pre-test and post-test, participants also had 20 minutes to complete as many questions as possible on The PISA Problem Solving Test. The pretest required participants to answer nine questions and the posttest required participants to answer 10 questions from multiple problem-based scenarios. Each problem-based scenario was unique, and some examples included the following: (1) calculating the distance between two points given a map; (2) developing a decision tree diagram of a library loan system; and (3) calculating daily energy needs for an individual given a set menu.

Data Structure and Analyses

The full dataset used for all analyses to be presented, contained data from 34 participants. All participants attempted three parallel, computerized forms of the TOH at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Due to the nature of the task’s programming, if participants did not complete a TOH task, the total number of moves attempted was not output to the data file. This will be expanded upon in the results section by utilizing three analyses which included an independent t-test comparing the mean number of incomplete TOH games between the groups, an independent t-test comparing the mean gain score of TOH between the groups, and a multiple linear regression predicting max gain score of TOH by group, by gain score count, and by group, gain score count, and PISA gain. All analyses in sections below were completed in R, version 3.4.3. Packages used for data analysis include: dplyr , for data wrangling ( Wickham et al., 2019 ), and ggplot2 for visualizations ( Wickham, 2016 ), and MASS for stepwise regression analyses ( Venables & Ripley, 2002 ).

Assessing Group differences in Completion

Although groups differed on the overall number of incomplete TOH sessions at pre-testing (N COGNITIVE = 13; N GAMING = 8), an independent t-test of the average number of incomplete games by group, was not significant (p > .05). Furthermore, an independent t-test revealed no group differences for the overall number of incomplete TOH sessions at post-testing (N COGNITIVE = 3; N GAMING = 2; p > .05). A repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant time effect, F(1,32) = 13.386, p<.001. However, group, F(1,32) = 1.609, p=.214, nor group by time interaction were significant, F(1,32)=.837, p=.367. On average, participants completed an additional half TOH session (i.e., .47, SD = .53) after receiving either training package (M Pre = .62, SD = .70; M Post = .15, SD = .36). Table 3 shows the means and standard deviations for the pretest and posttest scores participants completed in the experimental ( Warcraft ) and control ( CogniFit ) groups. The mean scores in the table indicate how many moves on average each participant could successfully solve the puzzle per group. For this study, participants had 20 minutes to complete as many questions as possible for the pretest and 20 minutes to do the same for an isomorphic version of the posttest. Table 4 shows the means and standard deviations for the PISA pretest and posttest scores of participants in the experimental ( Warcraft ) and control ( CogniFit ) groups.

Pretest and posttest scores by group on the Tower of Hanoi

Pretest and posttest scores by group on the PISA Problem Solving Test

Quantifying Improvement in Performance

In order to quantify improvement after the intervention, gain scores were calculated by the following formula, for each instance of the TOH task encountered (i.e. three sessions):

Gain scores produced from this calculation can be interpreted as follows: negative gain scores indicating improvement (fewer total moves at post-testing), and positive gain scores indicating a decrement in performance (more total moves at post-testing). As a result of incomplete games not producing the number of moves, for some participants, no gain score calculation was possible. At pretesting, the cognitive training group had three missing gain scores for the second TOH and 10 for the third TOH whereas the game training group had one missing gain score for the second TOH and seven for the third TOH. To account for this, when calculating average gain scores for each participant, averages were weighted by the number of completed games (i.e. averaging by the number of incomplete sessions would result in an undefined calculation, as some participants completed all sessions). Table 5 shows the results of an unpaired t-test on the average weighted gain scores found no group differences in TOH gain scores ( p > .05). Additionally, an unpaired t-test on the average PISA gain scores found no group differences gain scores ( p > .05).

Problem solving performance compared across training groups

Sensitivity Analysis

Due to missing data issues discussed above, the final analysis involves a stepwise multiple linear regression (forward and backward; AIC used for final model variable selection conducted using R package MASS, function stepAIC; Venables & Ripley, 2002 ), predicting max gain score (max of all three potential gain scores) by group membership (WoW or Cognitive Training), total gain score count, and a gain score derived from pre and post measurements on the PISA task (2003). Based on the stepwise regression procedure analysis results in Table 6 , the best fitting, significant, multiple regression model was found to be a model predicting max gain score from gain score count (no predictor for group membership or PISA gain score; F(1,32) = 14.41; p < .001; R 2 = .3104; adjusted R 2 = 0.2889). Participants predicted max gain score is equal to −111.70 + 48.87 (Gain Count), where gain score is in the unit of number of moves. Max gain score increased by 48.87 for every one unit increase in gain score count (more gain scores, closer to 0; less improvement after the intervention). Gain score count was a significant predictor of max gain score (t=3.796; p < 0.001), indicating potential practice effects from repeated exposure to the task. Practice effects will be discussed in subsequent sections.

Stepwise regression model path, analysis of deviance table and the row with the best fitting model, using AIC as criterion, is highlighted in gray

Evidence for Research Question 1

The initial hypothesis regarding the first question was that a brain-training game would help participants improve their rule application component of problem-solving skill better than a roleplaying game after 20 hours of gameplay for several reasons. One reason is that the rules are more explicit during brain-training gameplay and because of claims made by CogniFit that brain-training gameplay will improve its users’ brain fitness or ability to rely on more than one problem-solving strategy. While both games require players to apply rules to solve problems, only CogniFit markets its product as a tool that can help users to solve problems in their daily lives ( CogniFit, 2019 ). This claim also suggests that brain-training gameplay can help users transfer skills learned in-game to novel problem-solving scenarios in the natural world. However, the results indicated that there was no significant difference in gain scores (i.e., in Post - Pre Gain scores) in terms of TOH performance (t-test comparing gain scores: p = .746) between the two gaming conditions (i.e., Warcraft and CogniFit ), though both groups improved from baseline to post-testing assessment, likely attributable to practice effects (see Figure 5 ). Overall, the results contradicted our initial hypothesis for Research Question 1; implications are discussed next.

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Average number of moves in the Tower of Hanoi task across (up to 3) sessions per person, per timepoint. The left panel represents scores for the CogniFit (COG) group, and the right panel represents scores for the Warcraft (WOW) group.

Implications of Results for Research Question 1

Solving problems in an immersive game like Warcraft provided players with repeated practice of applying rules and using tools to find creative solutions to similar but varied problems. As players reflected on their choices, they learned how to use the tools by analyzing givens and constraints in unison to achieve maximum character performance and develop optimal solutions to general problems. CogniFit players did not experience immersive gameplay, but instead repeated problem-solving scenarios that were varied but required fewer tools and resources to be solved. Once CogniFit players knew how to use the paddle and the ball in unison, the only additional resources to use during gameplay were power-ups, bonus bricks, and traps. Roleplaying gameplay required players to solve problems using additional tools and resources efficiently which was a more complex task than using the ball and paddle during brain-training gameplay. Strategizing when and how to apply rules through varied but different problem scenarios with multiple tools and resources through immersive gameplay was beneficial for Warcraft participants. Moreover, players in Warcraft could receive feedback with help from other players learning when and how to apply tools and resources to solve problems. CogniFit players received feedback at the end of each level with an overall score and corrected mistakes through trial and error without additional support.

evidence for Research Question 2

The initial hypothesis regarding the second question was that training on an immersive, collaborative roleplaying video game for 20 hours would engender transfer of problem-solving skills to novel problem-solving scenarios on the PISA Problem Solving Test better than a brain-training video game. One reason is that research on MMORPGs including Warcraft indicates that players co-constructed knowledge by challenging and supporting novel ideas to in-game problem-solving scenarios through online discussion forums as well as discovering optimal solutions to in-game problems by combining multiple abilities and resources available to players ( Chinn & Malhotra, 2002 ; Steinkuehler & Chmiel, 2006 ). Efficiently using tools and resources is a component of problem solving and is central to the roleplaying gameplay experience ( Shute & Wang, 2016 ).

However, the results indicated that after 20 hours of gameplay of Warcraft or CogniFit there was no improved performance on the PISA (i.e., comparing PISA Gain Scores; p = .748). Overall, the mean scores for Warcraft participants were slightly better than CogniFit participants on the isomorphic versions of the PISA Problem Solving pretest and posttest - indicating baseline differences between the two groups in terms of performance. Overall, there were no significant differences found between roleplaying and brain-training gameplay on transfer of problem-solving skills (see Figure 6 ). The implications for the results from research question 2 are discussed next.

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PISA Scores before and after the intervention. The left panel represents scores for the COG group, and the right panel represents scores for the WOW group.

Implications of Results for Research Question 2

Given that both video game training and “brain-training” did not significantly improve problem-solving skills has several implications. The gameplay behaviors exhibited by players in each condition were aligned with the problem-solving processes on the PISA Problem Solving Test. However, possible reasons for lack of transfer in this study in addition to small sample size include (a) collaborative, immersive roleplaying gameplay may help promote problem-solving skills related to in-game problem solving scenarios but not necessarily to improved performance on external problem-solving assessments, and (b) problem-solving during Warcraft gameplay may be too domain specific to transfer to novel problem-solving scenarios on the PISA Problem Solving Test.

The misalignment between the problem-solving domains of Warcraft and the PISA Problem Solving Test could have hindered the possibility of finding a transfer effect. As an example, Warcraft players must learn how to navigate an immersive environment, use complex tools efficiently and effectively to solve problems during gameplay and interact with both the environment and other characters to solve problems. However, solving problems on the PISA Problem Solving Test is not an immersive experience. It was also a solitary activity; participants did not collaborate or interact with each other while taking the test. The OECD designed the PISA Problem Solving Test to cover more general problem-solving skills to complement domain-specific skills ( Greiff et al., 2014 ). Selecting a problem-solving assessment which is embedded within an immersive environment that requires players to engage in collaborative problem-solving processes (i.e. experienced in video gameplay) using tools and resources efficiently could have been a more viable assessment to measure transfer of problem-solving skills in this study. Further research is still warranted to determine if video gameplay can promote transfer of problem-solving skills to novel scenarios. The limitations of this research study are addressed in the next section.

Limitations

Given time and resource constraints, the sample size of this study is small and lacks statistical significance to make claims regarding the general population. With more available resources, recruitment would have likely continued for an additional semester to raise the sample size for the study. Students that did not complete the study cited time constraints as the main reason they were unable to fulfill the 20 hours of video gameplay requirement. The optimal time to run the study would have been during Fall and Spring semesters instead of Spring and Summer. In Fall and Spring, more students would have been available for recruitment as well as increased scheduling flexibility and time to complete the intervention during the academic year for the participants. Given that the authors monitored participants during video gameplay in case any problems arose, there may have been expectancy effects that impacted participants. For example, participants’ gameplay experiences may have been negatively or positively affected when being monitored. The potential for participants to alter their behavior simply because they are being studied is known as the Hawthorne Effect ( Benedetti, Carlino & Piedimonte, 2016 ). In addition, the inclusion of a more immersive assessment that measures problem-solving skill transfer could have led to improved outcomes when compared to a more traditional assessment like the PISA Problem-Solving Test (2003).

Future Implications

The main goal of this study was to examine the impact of two distinct types of video gameplay; role playing ( Warcraft ) and brain-training ( CogniFit ) on problem-solving skills for undergraduates. Specifically, if video gameplay can improve the rule application component of problem solving and whether problem solving during gameplay transferred to novel problem-solving scenarios. This study addressed some of the methodological shortcomings found in previous video game training and transfer studies that failed to report recruitment methods, define study variables, and provide an active control group in which participants could expect receive equal improvement from competencies ( Baniqued et al., 2013 ; Boot et al., 2013 ). As a result, possible placebo effects are likely mitigated in this experiment improving upon methodological pitfalls affecting other video game training studies ( Anderson et al., 2010 ; Ferguson & Kilburn, 2009 ).

The results from this study suggest that neither a commercially available video game ( Warcraft ) or a commercially available “brain-training” package ( CogniFit ) resulted in improvements in the rule-based component of problem solving (as assessed by the TOH puzzle). Moreover, aside from a lack of improvement in the rule-based component, 20-hours of training did not promote transfer of problem-solving skills to novel scenarios (as assessed by the PISA Problem Solving Task), which is consistent with similar research findings on cognitive training and transfer ( Souders et al., 2017 ). Sensitivity analyses conducted found evidence for practice effects in gain scores, illustrating that rather than improvement due to the training packages, improvement seems related to multiple, closely spaced assessments. Future research can complement this study by increasing the sample size and testing similar immersive well-designed video games on participant knowledge, skills, and abilities, in addition to directly cuing participants to be aware of the strategies (i.e., perceptual and cognitive strategies) they might carry with them from the digital world to the real-world.

Acknowledgment

Nelson Roque was supported by National Institute on Aging Grant T32 AG049676 to The Pennsylvania State University.

Benjamin Emihovich is an Assistant Professor of Educational Technology in the Education Department at the University of Michigan-Flint and is the program faculty coordinator for the online Educational Technology (M.A.) program. He currently teaches undergraduate and graduate students in the areas of Instructional Design and Technology as well as curriculum and instruction. His research area focuses on the following; game-based learning, assessments for learning in immersive environments, and emerging learning technologies.

Nelson A. Roque is a NIA T32 Postdoctoral Fellow, at Penn State’s Center for Healthy Aging. Nelson earned his Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from Florida State University in 2018. Nelson has a strong background in visual attention, focusing on how to reliably measure it, how it relates to individual difference factors (e.g., age, sleep) and translating insights from theoretical work in visual attention to applied contexts (e.g. medication errors).

Justin Mason is a Postdoctoral Associate in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Florida. His research interests include interventions suitable for mitigating age-related cognitive and physical decline in older adults. Additionally, he’s interested in factors that influence older adults’ adoption and acceptance of emerging technologies.

Contributor Information

Benjamin Emihovich, University of Michigan - Flint, Flint, USA.

Nelson Roque, Pennsylvania State University, State College, USA.

Justin Mason, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.

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Our Mission

3 Simple Strategies to Improve Students’ Problem-Solving Skills

These strategies are designed to make sure students have a good understanding of problems before attempting to solve them.

Research provides a striking revelation about problem solvers. The best problem solvers approach problems much differently than novices. For instance, one meta-study showed that when experts evaluate graphs , they tend to spend less time on tasks and answer choices and more time on evaluating the axes’ labels and the relationships of variables within the graphs. In other words, they spend more time up front making sense of the data before moving to addressing the task.

While slower in solving problems, experts use this additional up-front time to more efficiently and effectively solve the problem. In one study, researchers found that experts were much better at “information extraction” or pulling the information they needed to solve the problem later in the problem than novices. This was due to the fact that they started a problem-solving process by evaluating specific assumptions within problems, asking predictive questions, and then comparing and contrasting their predictions with results. For example, expert problem solvers look at the problem context and ask a number of questions:

What do we know about the context of the problem?
What assumptions are underlying the problem? What’s the story here?
What qualitative and quantitative information is pertinent?
What might the problem context be telling us? What questions arise from the information we are reading or reviewing?
What are important trends and patterns?

As such, expert problem solvers don’t jump to the presented problem or rush to solutions. They invest the time necessary to make sense of the problem.

Now, think about your own students: Do they immediately jump to the question, or do they take time to understand the problem context? Do they identify the relevant variables, look for patterns, and then focus on the specific tasks?

If your students are struggling to develop the habit of sense-making in a problem- solving context, this is a perfect time to incorporate a few short and sharp strategies to support them.

3 Ways to Improve Student Problem-Solving

1. Slow reveal graphs: The brilliant strategy crafted by K–8 math specialist Jenna Laib and her colleagues provides teachers with an opportunity to gradually display complex graphical information and build students’ questioning, sense-making, and evaluating predictions.

For instance, in one third-grade class, students are given a bar graph without any labels or identifying information except for bars emerging from a horizontal line on the bottom of the slide. Over time, students learn about the categories on the x -axis (types of animals) and the quantities specified on the y -axis (number of baby teeth).

The graphs and the topics range in complexity from studying the standard deviation of temperatures in Antarctica to the use of scatterplots to compare working hours across OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries. The website offers a number of graphs on Google Slides and suggests questions that teachers may ask students. Furthermore, this site allows teachers to search by type of graph (e.g., scatterplot) or topic (e.g., social justice).

2. Three reads: The three-reads strategy tasks students with evaluating a word problem in three different ways . First, students encounter a problem without having access to the question—for instance, “There are 20 kangaroos on the grassland. Three hop away.” Students are expected to discuss the context of the problem without emphasizing the quantities. For instance, a student may say, “We know that there are a total amount of kangaroos, and the total shrinks because some kangaroos hop away.”

Next, students discuss the important quantities and what questions may be generated. Finally, students receive and address the actual problem. Here they can both evaluate how close their predicted questions were from the actual questions and solve the actual problem.

To get started, consider using the numberless word problems on educator Brian Bushart’s site . For those teaching high school, consider using your own textbook word problems for this activity. Simply create three slides to present to students that include context (e.g., on the first slide state, “A salesman sold twice as much pears in the afternoon as in the morning”). The second slide would include quantities (e.g., “He sold 360 kilograms of pears”), and the third slide would include the actual question (e.g., “How many kilograms did he sell in the morning and how many in the afternoon?”). One additional suggestion for teams to consider is to have students solve the questions they generated before revealing the actual question.

3. Three-Act Tasks: Originally created by Dan Meyer, three-act tasks follow the three acts of a story . The first act is typically called the “setup,” followed by the “confrontation” and then the “resolution.”

This storyline process can be used in mathematics in which students encounter a contextual problem (e.g., a pool is being filled with soda). Here students work to identify the important aspects of the problem. During the second act, students build knowledge and skill to solve the problem (e.g., they learn how to calculate the volume of particular spaces). Finally, students solve the problem and evaluate their answers (e.g., how close were their calculations to the actual specifications of the pool and the amount of liquid that filled it).

Often, teachers add a fourth act (i.e., “the sequel”), in which students encounter a similar problem but in a different context (e.g., they have to estimate the volume of a lava lamp). There are also a number of elementary examples that have been developed by math teachers including GFletchy , which offers pre-kindergarten to middle school activities including counting squares , peas in a pod , and shark bait .

Students need to learn how to slow down and think through a problem context. The aforementioned strategies are quick ways teachers can begin to support students in developing the habits needed to effectively and efficiently tackle complex problem-solving.

Morning Carpool

“Stop Coddling Your Grown Child”: 21 Essential Life Skills That You Should Be Teaching Your Child Before They Leave for College

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: February 22, 2024

image credit: Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock <p><span>The demand for higher education and lifelong learning is soaring, driven by the rapidly changing job market. Universities and online platforms are racing to meet this demand, offering everything from traditional degrees to short, focused courses. This trend is democratizing education but also raising questions about quality, accessibility, and the future of the workforce. As education evolves, it will play a key role in shaping economic opportunities.</span></p>

As your child prepares to leave the nest for college, there are certain life skills they need to master to thrive on their own. From learning how to do laundry to budgeting and cooking, these essential skills seem obvious, but many young adults are sent off to college without them.

image credit: New Africa/Shutterstock <p><span>Washing clothes in cold water can save a considerable amount on your energy bill. Modern detergents are effective at low temperatures, and your clothes will last longer. Switching to a cold water wash is a no-brainer.</span></p>

Doing Laundry

Learning how to do laundry is a crucial skill for any college student. Start by teaching them how to separate colors and fabrics and the right temperature to use for each. Explain the importance of cleaning the lint trap in dryers and how to use laundry detergent properly.

image credit Yuganov-Konstantin/Shutterstock <p>Put on some music and dance while you clean your house. Not only does it make the chore more enjoyable, but it also elevates your heart rate. You’ll get a cleaner house and a workout at the same time. “It feels less like a chore and more like a party,” says a commenter online.</p>

Basic Cooking

Knowing basic cooking skills can save your child from a diet of instant noodles. Teach them how to cook simple, healthy meals like pasta, stir-fries, and salads. Emphasize kitchen safety, including handling knives and managing the stove.

image credit: fizkes/shutterstock <p><span>Microfinance is empowering entrepreneurs in developing countries, offering them the financial tools to lift themselves out of poverty. By providing small loans, savings accounts, and other financial services, microfinance institutions are helping to foster economic development and improve living standards. This trend is not without its challenges, including high-interest rates and the risk of over-indebtedness. However, the potential of microfinance to drive economic empowerment and reduce poverty is significant.</span></p>

Budgeting is key to managing college expenses. Show them how to track their income and expenses and the importance of saving. Discuss the dangers of credit card debt and impulsive purchases.

image credit: Roman Chazov/Shutterstock <p><span>Users created mock vacation scenes, often using household items and clever camera angles. This challenge was a playful escape and showcased the creativity of participants in simulating exotic locations.</span></p>

Time Management

Time management skills are vital for balancing study, work, and social life. Teach them how to prioritize tasks and use a planner or digital calendar. Stress the importance of setting aside time for studying and relaxation. Good time management can be the difference between success and burnout.

image credit: Ljupco Smokovski/Shutterstock <p><span>Michael Jackson didn’t invent the Moonwalk, but he certainly perfected it and brought it into the mainstream. When he first glided backward during a performance of “Billie Jean,” the world was mesmerized. The Moonwalk became synonymous with Jackson’s innovative and influential style, a dance move that seemed to defy gravity. “Every time I see someone Moonwalk, it takes me right back to when I saw MJ do it live,” reminisces an online fan.</span></p>

Cleaning and Housekeeping

A clean living space is essential for health and well-being. Teach them basic cleaning skills like dusting, vacuuming, and disinfecting surfaces. Show them how to maintain a clean bathroom and kitchen. Cleanliness plays a big role in making a good impression on roommates and friends.

image credit: Drazen-Zigic/Shutterstock <p><span>ShopSavvy is designed to help users conquer their impulsive spending habits. With alerts and reminders, it keeps temptation at bay. For those struggling with impulse buys, this app is great for price comparison to stop spendthrift tendencies.</span></p>

Grocery Shopping

Teach them how to make a grocery list based on planned meals, compare prices, and select fresh produce. Explain the benefits of buying in bulk and choosing store brands to save money. Show them how to read nutrition labels to make healthier choices. “Grocery shopping on my own was a reality check on adulting,” shared an online commenter.

image credit: Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock <p><span>The Virtual Travel Challenge took viewers on digital tours to different locations, all from the comfort of their homes. Participants shared their local sights, cultures, and hidden gems. It was a window to the world during a time when travel was limited. “This challenge took me to places I’ve never dreamed of visiting,” said @ArmchairExplorer.</span></p>

Public Transportation

Understanding how to navigate public transportation is essential in many college towns. Teach them how to read transit maps, use apps for schedules, and understand fare systems. Discuss the importance of being aware of their surroundings and personal safety while commuting.

Basic First Aid

Basic first aid knowledge can be a lifesaver in minor emergencies. Teach them how to treat cuts, burns, and sprains and when to seek professional medical help. Show them how to create and maintain a basic first aid kit. This skill is not just for them, but for helping others too.

image credit: TORWAISTUDIO/Shutterstock <p><span>The beauty industry is increasingly catering to a wider range of skin tones and types. Young adults are demanding more inclusive products, and brands are responding. This inclusivity is not just about shades but also about considering different skin concerns. It’s a significant step towards a beauty industry that serves everyone.</span></p>

Personal Hygiene

Good personal hygiene is crucial for health and social interactions. Discuss the importance of regular bathing, oral hygiene, and clean clothes. Teach them about skincare and the need for regular haircuts. As a commenter says, “Good hygiene goes a long way in making a good first impression.”

image credit: LightField Studios/Shutterstock <p><span>John Travolta’s leather jacket in</span><i><span> Grease</span></i><span> epitomized the cool, bad-boy image of the ’50s. Its sleek design and association with rebellion influenced a wave of leather jacket trends. The jacket was a statement of non-conformity and individualism.</span></p>

Communication Skills

Effective communication is key in both personal and professional life. Teach teens how to communicate respectfully and assertively, both in person and online. Discuss the importance of active listening and empathy in building relationships.

image credit: shutterstock <p><span>The DIY (Do It Yourself) trend has gained momentum, encouraging personal creativity in fashion. Customizing and upcycling clothing has become a popular way to create unique, personalized pieces. This trend is not only cost-effective but also allows for a deeper connection with one’s wardrobe. “DIY fashion lets me express my unique style,” comments a fashion enthusiast on a budget.</span></p>

Basic Sewing

Knowing how to sew a button or fix a minor tear can save time and money. Teach them basic sewing skills and how to use a sewing kit. This is not just practical but also a great way to be self-reliant. Plus, it’s a useful skill for costume parties!

image credit: John-roman-images/shutterstock <p>The regulation is anchored in the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, a law designed to combat the nuisance and potential harm of unsolicited automated calls. By extending this law to include AI-generated voice messages, the FCC aims to close a modern loophole that has allowed fraudsters to impersonate individuals and mislead the public.</p>

Dealing with Emergencies

Teach them how to respond to various emergencies, like power outages, fire alarms, and severe weather. Discuss the importance of knowing emergency contacts and evacuation routes. “Being prepared for emergencies gave me peace of mind when I lived on my own,” says an online commenter.

image credit: Monkey-Business-Images/Shutterstock <p><span>Helping others brings perspective and fulfillment. Volunteer in your community or lend a hand to a friend in need. Giving back makes your problems seem smaller. Acts of kindness boost your mood and build connections.</span></p>

Understanding Insurance

Understanding basic insurance concepts like health, auto, and renter’s insurance is important. Teach them how to read and understand an insurance policy and the importance of keeping documents safe. This knowledge is crucial for protecting themselves and their belongings.

image credit: Look Studio/Shutterstock <p><span>Social interactions can increase your lifespan and improve your mental health. Engaging in regular, meaningful conversations can reduce feelings of depression and stress. Never underestimate the power of a good chat.</span></p>

Networking and Socializing

Teach teens how to network and the importance of socializing in a healthy, balanced way. Discuss how to approach professors, join clubs, and attend campus events. Networking can lead to friendships, mentorships, and even job opportunities.

image credit: prostock-studio/shutterstock <p><span>Lau v. Nichols was a groundbreaking case that addressed language discrimination in schools. The Supreme Court ruled that schools must provide English language learners with appropriate measures to help them overcome language barriers. This case laid the foundation for bilingual education and additional resources for non-English speaking students. It’s a key decision in the realm of educational equity and language rights.</span></p>

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential in and out of the classroom. Encourage them to think independently, question assumptions, and approach problems logically. These skills will help them navigate complex situations and make informed decisions.

image credit: NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock <p><span>The next decade will witness a significant youth movement in politics. Young leaders under 30 will be elected to prominent positions, bringing fresh perspectives and addressing issues like climate change, mental health, and digital rights. Their approach will challenge traditional political structures and encourage a more participatory form of democracy.</span></p>

Digital Literacy

Teach teens about online safety, using search engines effectively, and managing digital files. Discuss the importance of a professional online presence. As one commenter said, “Digital literacy is as important as reading and writing.”

image credit: 4 PM production/Shutterstock <p><span>Schools are accommodating the delay in receiving critical FAFSA information in different ways. Many are pushing back their deadlines out of necessity, including the general May 1 college decisions deadline. After all, a worst-case scenario would be having students and families change their minds and unenroll after submitting an acceptance due to the emergence of new information. </span></p>

Personal Safety

Personal safety is paramount. Teach teens about situational awareness, trusting their instincts, and basic self-defense. Discuss the importance of staying safe in social situations and understanding consent.

image credit: Teechai/Shutterstock <p><span>Job flexibility is on the rise. Employers are offering more part-time, freelance, and job-sharing options. This flexibility accommodates different lifestyle needs and preferences. “Flexibility has allowed me to pursue my passion projects,” shares a worker in a forum online.</span></p>

Stress Management

College can be stressful, so knowing how to manage stress is key. Teach them relaxation techniques, the importance of exercise, and healthy coping mechanisms. Discuss the value of seeking help when needed. Managing stress effectively can enhance their college experience.

image credit: Dean Drobot/Shutterstock <p><span>Lower your utility bills by conserving energy. Simple changes like turning off lights, reducing water usage, turning down the thermostat, and sealing drafts can lower your monthly expenses significantly.</span></p>

Laundry Etiquette

In shared laundry facilities, etiquette is essential. Teach teens about respecting others’ laundry, not leaving clothes unattended, and cleaning up after themselves, which will keep the peace and foster a sense of community responsibility.

image credit: MilanMarkovic78/Shutterstock <p><span>Cook more meals at home. Home-cooked meals are often healthier and more balanced than dining out. You control the ingredients, portions, and preparation methods—a delicious way to better health.</span></p>

Cooking for Special Diets

Knowing how to cook for special diets is helpful if they or their friends have dietary restrictions. Teach them about vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly cooking. This skill is not only considerate but also expands their culinary horizons.

<p><span>Eastern Pennsylvania’s “Latino Belt,” a critical battleground in the upcoming 2024 elections, provides a case study of the profound demographic and political shifts underway in the United States. In a marked change of political expectations, Hazleton, PA’s Hispanic voter population has increasingly embraced Republican candidates and priorities. While this case study is not indicative of other Hispanic populations in Pennsylvania, the trend will cause both parties to carefully consider efforts to court the broader Latino vote ahead of the 2024 election.</span></p>

Voting and Civic Engagement

Understanding the importance of voting and civic engagement is crucial. Discuss how to register to vote, the basics of local and national politics, and the importance of staying informed. “Voting for the first time made me feel like a true adult,” shared a commenter.

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COMMENTS

Sports & Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving skills refer to an individual's ability to detect, evaluate, and solve problems in an efficient and effective way. These skills help children think critically and teach them to approach challenges with a positive "can-do" attitude. With these skills, children learn to persevere when things get tough and are able to be ...
Benefits of Sports to Students
Studies have shown that exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps the body build more connections between nerves, leading to increased concentration, enhanced memory, stimulated creativity, and better-developed problem solving skills. In short, playing sports helps your brain grow and makes it work better. From a social standpoint ...
Helping Kids Learn Important Problem-Solving Life Skills through Sports
As kids solve more problems, they gain more self-confidence, and in turn see themselves as successful people, not weak kids who lack life skills. Problem-solving steps. If you are a sports parent or youth sports coach, help kids develop their problem-solving skills by reviewing the following basic problem-solving steps: Properly frame the problem.
Developing Life Skills Through Sports and Its Benefits
6. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills. The challenges presented in sports help children develop effective problem-solving skills since they have to learn the strategy in overcoming obstacles. These skills become transferable to academic and real-life situations. 7. Leadership Skills. Within a sports team, opportunities arise for children to take ...
How Sports Help Kids Develop Life Skills
Sport and physical activity positively impact the social, emotional, and academic performance of kids. Calm an overactive mind to be more focused. Relax aggressive behavior to understand that ...
Teaching problem solving: Let students get 'stuck' and 'unstuck'
By naming what it is they did to solve the problem, students can be more independent and productive as they apply and adapt their thinking when engaging in future complex tasks. After a few weeks ...
How to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills
Here are the steps to problem-solving: . Identify the problem. Just stating the problem out loud can make a big difference for kids who are feeling stuck. Help your child state the problem, such as, "You don't have anyone to play with at recess," or "You aren't sure if you should take the advanced math class."
Influence of Sports Activities on Prosocial Behavior of Children and
Secondly, sports activities serve as a communication tool for developing other life skills, such as social and coping skills . Sports activities provide a suitable and flexible environment, helping children and teenagers interact with all kinds of people and actively explore various life skills, such as teamwork , problem-solving , and goal ...
7 Valuable Life Skills Kids Can Learn Through Team Sports
The skills learned while playing team sports carry over into all aspects of life, from work teams to families. 6. Kids Learn Problem Solving Through Playing Sports. The more you practice problem solving, the better kids become at it. This is true for any skill, but it's especially important in team sports.
Teaching Problem Solving
Make students articulate their problem solving process . In a one-on-one tutoring session, ask the student to work his/her problem out loud. This slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to access understanding. When working with larger groups you can ask students to provide a written "two-column solution.".
PDF Coaching Social & Emotional Skills in Youth Sports
Model positive behavior and show youth what it looks like to use social, emotional, and cognitive skills through your interactions and behaviors with other adults and with youth. For example, demonstrate respect and listening skills when talking to team members or other adults, model steps to conflict resolution.
The Power of Play: How Athletic Activities Foster Leadership Skills in
Believe it or not, the power of play can go a long way in fostering leadership skills in children. Specifically, athletic activities have been shown to teach valuable lessons about teamwork, communication, perseverance and more. So whether your child is dribbling on the basketball court or kicking around a soccer ball, they're gaining much more ...
Building Teamwork and Leadership Skills Through Sports
Through consistent teamwork in sports, individuals develop skills in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and adaptability, which are invaluable not only on the field but also in various aspects of life. Leadership Opportunities. Team sports provide numerous opportunities for individuals to take on leadership roles.
Teaching Teamwork Skills In Youth Sports
But it requires more than just glue for a group to stick. Skills like leadership, hard work, communication, conflict resolution, self-discipline, and accountability are also necessary for a group to work together successfully. Here are a few pointers on how to encourage teamwork with your athlete or team: Leadership means learning to lead ...
How Sports Can Help Develop Your Creativity and Writing Skills
Represents all or most of all the leading insurance companies. Engaging in sports can help develop your creativity and writing skills by providing an outlet to release stress and increase brain activity. Sports teach problem-solving skills at all ages and help develop the ability to think on your feet, translating into better writing skills.
How to Teach Problem Solving Skills Like a Pro
2. Consistency, consistency, consistency. Yup, you guessed it. You can't just teach problem solving skills once or twice, and expect students to have it perfect. Just like with a new math or reading skill, problem solving takes time. LOTS of time- and lots of practice. Any time you can, have students practice their problem solving skills.
Teamwork And Talk: How Sports Enhance Children's Communication Skills
This kind of interaction helps them develop essential life skills such as active listening, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and negotiation. In this article, we will explore how participating in team sports enhances children's communication skills and why it is crucial for parents and educators to encourage young ones to engage in ...
Six Steps to Teach Problem-Solving Effectively
1 Define the problem. The first step to teach problem-solving is to help your learners identify and understand the problem they are facing. You can use questions, prompts, or scenarios to elicit ...
Strengthening High School Students' Problem-Solving Skills
Finding, shaping, and solving problems puts high school students in charge of their learning and bolsters critical-thinking skills. As an educator for over 20 years, I've heard a lot about critical thinking, problem-solving, and inquiry and how they foster student engagement. However, I've also seen students draw a blank when they're ...
How to Develop Problem Solving Skills: 4 Tips
1. Creativity: Effective problem solving requires the ability to brainstorm solutions and think outside the box to arrive at new approaches to longstanding problems. 2. Teamwork: Addressing a group problem or systemic social problem requires you to work collaboratively and supportively with other team members. 3.
9 Life Skills Kids Can Learn From Being in Team Sports
Team sports teach compromise, cooperation, and problem-solving with others, all of which require excellent communication. Good communication skills are necessary for any successful relationship. When everyone is on the same page, duties become easier and people complete things with fewer misunderstandings.
How eSports Help Students Cultivate Soft Skills
It would seem that group dynamics plays a critical role in team performance for esports in a similar way it does for traditional sports." Fostering these skills can help students in future academic endeavors, career, and transitioning to leadership roles. Developing Strong Team-based Problem-Solving Skills. Another advantage that esports ...
Can Video Gameplay Improve Undergraduates' Problem-Solving Skills?
The main goal of this study was to examine the impact of two distinct types of video gameplay; role playing ( Warcraft) and brain-training ( CogniFit) on problem-solving skills for undergraduates. Specifically, if video gameplay can improve the rule application component of problem solving and whether problem solving during gameplay transferred ...
3 Ways to Improve Student Problem-Solving
While slower in solving problems, experts use this additional up-front time to more efficiently and effectively solve the problem. In one study, researchers found that experts were much better at "information extraction" or pulling the information they needed to solve the problem later in the problem than novices. This was due to the fact that they started a problem-solving process by ...
"Stop Coddling Your Grown Child": 21 Essential Life Skills ...
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential in and out of the classroom. Encourage them to think independently, question assumptions, and approach problems logically.