Secret Codes for Kids (Mensa)
Mensa Kids Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
This book includes over 100 secret codes that at one point in history carried life-or-death messages. Here they are used in puzzles, just for fun. All kids need to break them is the ability to read and count -- and the determination to not give up.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite secret code from the book, and why do you find it interesting?
How do you think secret codes can help us communicate better or differently?
Can you think of a situation where you might use a secret code?
What did you learn about the way people used codes in history?
How would you create your own secret code? What symbols or rules would you use?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the book together, and pause to discuss each type of code. Ask your child to explain the codes in their own words.
Encourage your child to create a simple message using one of the codes from the book. Exchange messages and decode them together, making it a fun interactive activity.
Discuss the historical context of some of the secret codes, linking them to real-life events or situations to deepen their understanding.
Use puzzles and coding games from the book to challenge your child and keep them engaged, while reinforcing their learning and critical thinking skills.
Acknowledge and praise your child's efforts in understanding and applying the codes, boosting their confidence and interest in cryptography.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving Skills
Explanation: Secret Codes for Kids encourages children to decipher codes and solve puzzles, enhancing their analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Real-World Application: These skills can help children navigate academic challenges and everyday decisions by encouraging a methodical approach to problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: Solving codes requires careful attention to detail, as missing even a small part can lead to incorrect solutions.
Real-World Application: This attention to detail can be transferred to school work, helping children improve their ability to notice and correct small errors in their homework or tests.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The challenges posed by the puzzles in the book teach children the value of persistence as they work through difficult codes and puzzles.
Real-World Application: Persisting through challenges, children learn not to give up easily in the face of difficulties whether in academic, sports, or social situations.
Example Lesson: Creative Thinking
Explanation: Decoding messages also involves a level of creative thinking, as children must think outside the box to find solutions.
Real-World Application: Creativity nurtured through decoding can enhance children's ability to think innovatively in real-world problems and in artistic endeavors.