Games Around the World (Around the World)
#2 of 12 in Around the World by Magic Spells for Teachers LLC Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Discover countries, cultures, and traditions in this new series! Every day, all around the world, kids go to school, eat lunch and play games. And yet, these universal experiences can look very different between different countries. These books will take our readers on a trip around the globe to celebrate diverse cultures and traditions, and will show us how different (and how similar) we all are! Key features include high interest themes, real photos, fascinating facts, maps showing where events and places featured in the book take place, making it a perfect addition to social science and geography collections with an international appeal.
Discussion points
What similarities and differences did you notice between the games played in different countries?
Why do you think games are important in cultures around the world?
How do the rules of the games you read about compare to the rules of games you play?
If you could create a game inspired by one you learned about in the book, what would it be like?
Which game would you like to try playing with your friends and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a game you enjoyed as a child and ask your child about their favorite game.
Encourage your child to think critically about the role of games in bringing people together by discussing the communal aspects portrayed in the book.
Help your child make connections between the games in the book and the games they play; discuss any cultural or historical significance mentioned about the games.
Use a globe or world map to locate the countries discussed in the book and explore their cultural backgrounds together.
Suggest re-creating one of the games from the book at home or with friends, which can provide a hands-on learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Through exploring games played by children in different parts of the world, the book fosters an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace and respect classmates from diverse backgrounds, enhancing social harmony and global awareness.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Many games featured require team play, teaching children how to work cooperatively and support one another towards a common goal.
Real-World Application: Skills in collaboration can be transferred to group projects in school, fostering effective communication and joint problem-solving abilities.
Example Lesson: Following Rules
Explanation: Each game has a set of rules that players must follow, highlighting the importance of structure and guidelines.
Real-World Application: Understanding and adhering to rules in games can help children apply similar discipline in academic settings and personal life.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The book shows how games are adapted in various cultural contexts, encouraging children to think creatively and invent their own versions of games.
Real-World Application: This creativity can be applied in artistic pursuits or in developing unique solutions to challenges faced in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Physical and Mental Agility
Explanation: Many games involve physical activity and strategic thinking, promoting both physical health and cognitive development.
Real-World Application: Engaging in active play can enhance a child’s motor skills and strategic thinking, important for overall development.