We all claim to see the value of adding gamification at work, school and home. But are we really changing our approach to parenting, learning and teaching? Use the gift of summer as an opportunity to gamify one aspect of your life.
Parents
You are your child’s most important teacher.
Try new classroom inspired activities at home, such as:
- color coded behavior charts
- instant stickers or small prizes for completing tasks
- calendar countdowns to good behavior reward parties
My son and I are having fun with classbadges.com. Every time he chooses a new activity for himself, I award him a badge. At the end of the summer, we will be able to look back on how he chose to spend his time away from school. This will help both us get to know him better.
Students
This is your chance to reward yourself!
Offer to help your family by doing new chores around the house:
- cook a meal
- care for a pet
- wash the car
Negotiate in advance how you would like to be compensated:
- increase in allowance
- more “screen” time
- a big gift at the end of the summer
Teachers
You need to keep up with your students. Even some parents are getting savvy about gamification. Make the time to educate yourself about fun new ways to teach and learn.
There are plenty of ideas on Twitter. Join the conversation here:
#kinderchat = kindergarten chat
#cpchat = connected principals
#edchat = education chat
#ukedchat = UK education chat
Make time for you, and focus on building your personal learning network (PLN). You’ll agree with me, sometimes learning can be a game and reward unto itself.
