[Edu] Good Games for 6th Grade Special Education Class?

[Maureen Reed]

Games make great therapeutic devices for kids on the autistic spectrum
because they are at once predictable and structured while also dynamic and
interactive. Kids on the higher end of the spectrum (like my own son) seem
to especially enjoy historical strategy games - I think because they are
sufficiently complex dynamic systems for their usually average to above
average intellects while also allowing the social element to be controlled
to a manageable level. For HFA and Asperger kids, multi-player games make a
fabulous differentiated tool.

 

Also, Fluxx makes a great tool for kids on the autistic spectrum because it
is a fun way to practice mental flexibility! I am a Looney Labs fan
precisely because it was effective in loosening up the rigidity of thinking
that goes along with autism. Now, at 15, he has internalized what it means
to "don't count your chickens before they hatch!" I'll be ever grateful to
Andy for giving me a tool to teach that lesson in such a fun way.


Maureen K. Reed
President, High Content Games
www.highcontentgames.com
Education Development, Chicago Toy & Game Fair
www.chitag.com

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From: edu-bounces at lists.looneylabs.com
[mailto:edu-bounces at lists.looneylabs.com] On Behalf Of Christopher Hickman
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 2:26 PM
To: 'Looney Labs Education Discussion List'
Subject: [Edu] Good Games for 6th Grade Special Education Class?

 

Hello folks, 

My cousin has just started her job as the Special Education teacher for 6th
grade in a Henrico County school (yeah, the place that incited a riot for
$100 iBooks). I know that a lot of you on this list are teachers and that
some are also in Special Education.  I'd like to siphon off some of your
collective experience and recommend appropriate games for her to try with
her students.

What say you? 

Topher 

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