Building brain power through fun and games

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - Although many board games experience a peak in popularity then fade into obscurity, one classic continues to withstand the test of time. Available in many mediums and 29 languages, Scrabble continues to bring people of all ages together in a quest to build the highest-scoring words.

National Scrabble Day is April 13, commemorating the birthdate of Alfred Mosher Butts, the iconic game’s creator. And while the official rules of the game are well understood by its aficionados, family-friendly versions are as close as our imaginations.

“Scrabble helps build word skills and sharpens cognitive and interactive skills in a fun way, something near and dear to our hearts at The Woodlands LearningRx,” said Kim Bellini, director of the brain-training center. “With a few simple modifications to the rules, however, parents and grandparents can turn family game night into an unexpected learning experience.”

Although the game requires a certain level of word knowledge, children as young as first graders can get in on the fun.

Using the game’s basic set up of board and letters, many variations of play can be custom-designed according to the ages of the players.

For example, make up a game in which students can practice their spelling words in a game of solitaire. Begin by spreading the letters out, face side up, and reading off the first word, instructing the child to select the correct letters and set them in the proper order on the game board. From there, show them how to continue building the crossword pattern with the rest of the spelling words, while ensuring all are spelled correctly. Have them keep track of each word’s score for the added benefit of getting in some math practice.

Not only can this version of the game sharpen spelling and math skills, it also may help on test day as the memory of the fun had while finding the letters, building the words and adding up the totals can provide a visual the student may be able to easily recall.

“Of course, playing a traditional game of Scrabble is an excellent way to help keep our brains moving and sharp – no matter the age of the competitors – by utilizing critical thinking, strategy and engagement skills,” Bellini said.

Located at 10857 Kuykendahl Road, Suite 240 in The Woodlands, the center offers one-on-one brain-training programs for clients of all ages, including programs that enhance students’ ability to learn, read and succeed in a broad range of academic and work-related challenges, as well as programs for senior citizens who want to stay sharp and improve their quality of life. To learn more about The Woodlands LearningRx, call 832-482-3082 or visit learningrx.com/the-woodlands.

LearningRx specializes in identifying and correcting the underlying cognitive skill deficiencies that keep people from achieving their full potential in school, business or life. The program was pioneered by Dr. Ken Gibson. Using a comprehensive skills assessment test and intensive one-on-one training, certified enhance weak cognitive skills such as attention, memory, processing speed, and problem solving. For more information, visit learningrx.com/the-woodlands.