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The Educational Value Of Board Games

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Board games have been a source of entertainment for centuries, engaging players of all ages in various challenges. Beyond their entertainment value, board games also offer significant educational benefits. They foster cognitive development, enhance critical thinking, and promote social skills. Among these games, chess stands out as a potent educational tool.

Cognitive Development

Board games are excellent for cognitive development, especially in children. They often require players to memorize rules, recall past moves, and plan future strategies, all of which engage and strengthen the brain. Games like “Memory” and “Scrabble” are designed to boost memory and language skills. Memory games improve a player’s ability to recognize patterns and recall details, while word games expand vocabulary and spelling abilities.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Many board games are built around the concept of strategy, requiring players to think critically and solve problems. Games such as “Risk” and “Catan” challenge players to think several steps ahead, weighing the potential outcomes of different actions. This kind of strategic thinking is invaluable in real-world situations, where planning and foresight are essential.

Chess, one of the oldest and most revered board games, is a prime example of a game that fosters critical thinking. Each move in chess must be carefully considered, as it affects not only the current state of the game but also future possibilities. Players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and develop a flexible strategy to adapt to the changing board. This level of deep thinking and analysis can significantly enhance cognitive abilities and improve decision-making skills.

Social Skills and Teamwork

Board games are inherently social activities that often require players to interact, communicate, and collaborate. Games like “Pandemic” and “Ticket to Ride” require players to work together toward a common goal, promoting teamwork and cooperation. These interactions help players develop important social skills such as communication, negotiation, and empathy.

Playing board games also teaches players how to handle winning and losing gracefully. The competitive nature of these games often leads to a range of emotions, and players learn to manage these feelings healthily. This emotional regulation is a crucial skill that extends far beyond the gaming table.

Educational Benefits of Chess

Chess, in particular, has been extensively studied for its educational benefits. It is not just a game of kings and queens but also a powerful tool for developing a range of cognitive and social skills. Schools around the world have integrated chess into their curricula, recognizing its potential to enhance student learning.

  1. Improving Concentration and Focus: Chess requires intense concentration and focus. Players must pay attention to every move and anticipate their opponent’s strategies. This sustained focus can translate to better concentration in academic settings, improving students’ ability to stay on task and absorb information.
  2. Enhancing Memory: Chess players must remember a vast array of moves, strategies, and counter-strategies. This constant exercise of memory can lead to improved recall and retention of information, benefiting students in subjects that require memorization, such as history and science.
  3. Developing Critical Thinking: Chess is often referred to as the “game of kings” because it involves strategic thinking, planning, and foresight. Players learn to think multiple steps ahead, evaluate different scenarios, and make decisions based on logic and reasoning. These skills are directly applicable to problem-solving in academic and real-world situations.
  4. Encouraging Patience and Discipline: Chess is a game of patience and discipline. Players must wait for the right moment to execute their strategies and avoid impulsive moves. This patience and discipline can help students approach their studies and other tasks with a more measured and thoughtful mindset.
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Lifelong Learning and Enjoyment

Board games are not just for children; they offer educational benefits for adults as well. Games that involve complex strategies and deep thinking can help keep the adult brain sharp and engaged. Additionally, the social aspect of board games provides a fun and interactive way for adults to connect with others and develop their social skills.

For families, playing board games together can create bonding opportunities and promote a love of learning. Parents can use games as a tool to teach valuable life skills, from basic math and reading to more complex strategic thinking.

There You Go

Board games are more than just a source of entertainment. They are powerful educational tools that can enhance cognitive development, critical thinking, and social skills. Chess, in particular, stands out for its ability to improve concentration, memory, and strategic thinking. Whether played by children or adults, board games offer a unique and enjoyable way to learn and grow, making them an invaluable addition to any educational toolkit.

Friends, what are your favorite games to play? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart Book Review & Giveaway


Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

In times of political, social, and environmental uncertainty, words of serenity can help to calm the mind, secure sleep, and rest even the most tired of spirits. Leading many people, including a fair number of women weery from around the world. Always looking for positivity in a troubled world, worlds of encouragement can bring hope to many in need of a clear mind and peaceful heart. As is the message of the new devotional publication, from Christian author Lysa TerKeurst, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart.”

Featuring simple-to-understand daily devotional messages of faith and futility, author Lysa TerKeurst shares with readers methods to avoid uncertainty, how to unpack personal frailty and feelings of fear, as well as devotions to help readers fall safely asleep with a clear mind and a peaceful heart in her latest work from Thomas Nelson Publishing, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart.”

Guided meditations showcasing God’s juxtapositioning, simultaneously holding the meaning of life, alongside details of your journeys, in his faithful hands is what New York Times best-selling author Lysa TerKeurst, and her friends at Proverbs 31 Ministries, share in these fifty encouraging devotions and guided prayers written by women, for women, like you. Remebering that the Lord not only has the whole world in His hands; He’s holding the details of your life in His faithful hands, too. Learn more at www.ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com.

Helping to release the pressures of everyday life and the hard situations we all endure. Helping readers to wake up daily, refreshed and prepared for the challenges ahead of them each day. Days filled with intersection and faith methods to help us all feel hopeful in our days, with nights filled with peaceful, restful sleep. This is the devotion to consider as you start your spiritual life this fall.

Sleep meditation and exerts directly from scripture, including: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NIV), aids readers in identifying, “What lies heaviest on your heart as you lay your head on your pillow? Are paralyzing fear and anxiety stealing tomorrow’s peace?” Allowing readers to experience rest, not full of unfilled escapism and uncertainty, but rest for the weariest of souls. Sharing that everything negative in our lives may not be fixed today, we can fix our thoughts on His word.

Readers are also given contextualization from ministry insights perfect for colder days ahead. Learn more about these teachings for your days, and nights ahead at ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com. Helping readers to experience the kind of rest escapism won’t provide. The hope of sound sleep, the sleep we can all claim, with the ease of knowing God is working on our behalves.

Through the pages of “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart,” Lysa TerKeurst, you will be equipped to quiet riotous, anxious thoughts depriving sound sleep and to find relief from the stress of obligations and social pressures through fifty inspired and relatable devotions and guided prayers written, again, for and by, women, like you.

The publication, “Clean Mind, Peaceful Heart,” in its hardcover, east-to-store binding is now available for $24.99 from Thomas Nelson Publishings. Order your copy of “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart” today!

Plus, our good friends at Momentum Publishing are giving away a $5.00 Starbucks gift card to one Theladyprefers2save.com reader. To enter, please visit www.ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com. Then, return to this post and share what piece of life-affirming knowledge makes you most excited to read this publication this season at home; prizes will be mailed directly from Momentum Publishers to this site’s winner. Please also note, that entries are verified; entrants winning on multiple platforms will be disqualified. This giveaway will end on August 1, 2024, at 11:59 P.M. CST. Good luck!

Friends, why are you most excited to read, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart“, by Lysa TerKeurst, from Thomas Nelson Publications this season? I look forward to reading your thoughts in the comments below.

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Investing in Men’s Shoes: Why Quality Matters

When building a wardrobe that exudes confidence, sophistication, and practicality, the importance of investing in high-quality men’s shoes cannot be overstated. While it might seem tempting to go for the most budget-friendly options, there are compelling reasons why investing in premium footwear is worthwhile.

1. Longevity and Durability

One of the most significant benefits of investing in quality shoes is their durability. High-end shoes are crafted from superior materials, such as full-grain leather or premium suede, which are more resistant to wear and tear than their cheaper counterparts. The construction methods used in quality shoes, such as Goodyear welting or Blake stitching, ensure that the shoe’s sole is securely attached and can be replaced if necessary. This means that while you might pay more upfront, these shoes can last for years, making them a better long-term investment. In addition to considering well-known premium brands, you might explore boutique options like burrowsandhare.co.uk, which offers a curated selection of high-quality men’s shoes that combine craftsmanship with contemporary style.

2. Comfort and Support

Quality shoes are designed with comfort in mind. Premium footwear brands invest in advanced technologies and materials to enhance the comfort of their shoes. Features such as cushioned insoles, ergonomic designs, and moisture-wicking linings contribute to a more comfortable walking experience. Properly constructed shoes provide better arch support and reduce the risk of foot pain or injury, which is particularly important if you spend long hours on your feet. In contrast, cheaper shoes often lack the necessary support and cushioning, leading to discomfort and potential health issues over time.

3. Enhanced Style and Versatility

High-quality shoes often come with a timeless design and superior craftsmanship that can elevate any outfit. Whether it’s a classic pair of Oxfords, sleek loafers, or stylish brogues, investing in well-made shoes means you’re getting a product that looks polished and refined. Quality shoes often have a better fit and finish, with attention to details such as stitching, color, and texture. This level of craftsmanship not only enhances your overall appearance but also adds a touch of sophistication and confidence to your look. Versatile designs ensure that these shoes can be paired with various outfits, from formal business attire to casual weekend wear.

4. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

While the initial cost of high-quality shoes may seem high, they are often more cost-effective in the long run. Due to their durability and timeless style, you will likely find yourself needing to replace them less frequently compared to cheaper, lower-quality options. In addition, many premium shoes can be refurbished or repaired, which extends their lifespan even further. By investing in a few well-made pairs, you can save money over time and avoid the cycle of buying and discarding inexpensive shoes.

5. Ethical and Sustainable Choices

Many high-end footwear brands are committed to ethical practices and sustainability. Investing in quality shoes often means supporting companies that prioritize fair labor practices, environmental responsibility, and animal welfare. These brands are more likely to use eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, which can align with your values and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

6. Confidence and Self-Esteem

Wearing well-crafted, stylish shoes can have a significant impact on your self-esteem and confidence. When you know your shoes look good and feel comfortable, you carry yourself with greater assurance. This boost in confidence can positively affect various aspects of your life, from your professional interactions to your social engagements.

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Fun Team Building Activities to Boost Your Next Corporate Event

Team building activities are a great way to boost engagement, morale, and collaboration at your next corporate event. Getting employees out of their usual routine and working together in new ways can lead to improved communication, problem-solving, and productivity when they return to their regular work. Here are some fun options to consider for your next company gathering.

Laser Tag 

Laser tag is an exciting, fast-paced team-building activity that will have your group bonding as they work together. Renting a portable laser tag arena and equipment is an easy way to transform any indoor space into an all-out laser battle. 

Split your group into teams and let them go head-to-head in an energetic game of laser tag. To win, teams will need to communicate effectively, develop strategies, and use each person’s strengths as they attempt to “tag” opponents and reach the objective. Consider having a friendly wager between teams to up the competitive spirit even more. 

The physical nature of running around combined with the need for collaboration and problem-solving make for a stimulating laser tag team event. Look into laser tag rental to learn how it could add some additional fun to your next event.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms present an immersive puzzle-solving challenge that requires teammates to think creatively and work together seamlessly. Participants are locked in a themed room and must find clues, decode hidden messages, and solve a series of puzzles to escape within the time limit. 

Handing your employees a complex mystery to crack in an escape room environment is an engaging path to improved communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. Lean into the theme with decor, music, and costumes to make the experience even more fun.

Escape rooms typically require a strategic team splitting into smaller groups so encourage your employees to work with those they may not usually pair up with for a fresh bonding experience.

Cooking Competitions

A little friendly competition in the kitchen is an entertaining way to build teamwork. Split into small teams and have each group come up with an appetizer, entree, or dessert to prepare on-site. Provide the necessary equipment and a selection of ingredients and give them a set timeframe to create their culinary masterpiece. 

A panel of impartial “judges” can rate each dish on taste, presentation, and creativity. Cooking together under these competitive circumstances will bring out everyone’s problem-solving and coping skills. 

And at the end, you have a collection of delicious foods everyone can enjoy! To go the extra mile, give the teams aprons and chef hats to embrace the culinary theme.

Challenge Courses

Outdoor challenge courses offer adventurous team-building activities focused on problem-solving, strategy, and collaboration. Activities might include high and low ropes courses, rock climbing, ziplining, trust falls, and more. Participants support and motivate each other to overcome mental and physical obstacles on these exhilarating courses designed to push them outside their comfort zones. 

Problem-solving as a team to conquer the course translates directly to displaying the same teamwork when tackling objectives back at the office. Challenge courses also have elements of calculated risk which builds mutual trust between colleagues. Working through the adrenaline-pumping activities leads to increased camaraderie. 

Consider following up with a relaxing outdoor barbeque after completing the thrilling course.

Stepping away from routine tasks together to problem-solve, collaborate, and have fun is a recipe for improved office engagement, communication, and productivity.

Friends, how are you planning your next team-building corporate event? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Unshakable Moxie Movie Review & Giveaway

Thanks to Our Daily Bread Ministries for providing a sample of their product for review. Opinions are 100% my own and are not influenced by compensation.

Today’s world can be cold and uncanny. Leaving many to seek out faithfulness through the lives of others-especially matriarchs of the Bible. Women who understand how your identity in faith can strengthen your relationship within the world. Especially in our modern political climate, now’s the perfect time to invest in what matters most to you in this world with the Unshakable Moxie video series, an episodic video series. Inviting believers to discover what a life of resilient faith is.

Unshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, a 6-Session Women’s Bible Study, featuring Video Access, from Our Daily Bread, who for more than eight decades has been committed to nurturing a lifelong relationship for God’s daughters, transformed by a relationship with God‘s son, Jesus. Through daily devotions, podcasts, videos, and series to create a life-changing understanding of the word. With a mission of worldwide Biblical engagement and sound, scriptural teaching to create lifelong, lasting change in the everyday lives of others with God’s Word and the faith journeys of His children.

Hosted by Toni Collier (Broken Crayons Still Color) and Moriah Smallbone (The Chosen), is a video series features Lina AbuJamra, Ruth Chou Simons, Katie Lewis, Dr. Bernice King, and Joni Eareckson Tada. The perfect pairing of worship materials and video series, helping women, like you, and me, to strengthen their own lives of resilient faith.

This study, including a beautiful hardcover Prayer Journal and inspirational cards that share Scripture and powerful quotes from the series, explores biblical lessons around the themes posed in each episode. Hosts Moriah Smallbone and Toni Collier dive deeply into tough, modern, poignant topics including forgiveness, disillusionment, hardships, and the effects of personal growth on their faith during challenging circumstances.

What participants will gain in fellowship with Unshakable Moxie and package:

  1. Insight into how women, like yourself, facing real painful struggles have persisted in their strength.
  2. Encouragement in how God’s diligent actions in your own lives,
  3. A sense of accomplishment in examining your walk of faith.

This 6-part docuseries and accompanying Bible Study invites readers to embark on a study of recognizing the powerful innermost traits of success from ourselves and other notable women of God. Through our greatest weaknesses to our utmost pinnacles of strength. Moments that allow us all to write out our narrative of Unshakable Moxie.

Leaving readers to key in on important inner questions, including what a woman of moxie is, how dynamic can we each be in our narratives, and the personal path of developing our respective spiritual and actualized journies, online and in our own lives.

I particularly enjoyed episode three of the series, dealing with the accompanying book and guided meditation and materials. Helping each of us go into our next season of gratitude with grace, strength, and consumable poise. Watch the series now and see how our creator can turn your biggest fears into opportunities to develop resounding faith. Be sure to watch the full series now, here. You can also order your copy of Unshakable Moxie, here.

Also, enter to win a personal copy Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and a $20.00 Amazon.com Giftcard, including Unshakable Moxie Bible Study, with QR code access to the video series, Unshakable Moxie Prayer Journal, and Unshakable Moxie Scripture & Encouragement Cards Pack.

Please note: All entries will be verified, duplicate entries on multiple sites will be disqualified, “Hope to see this movie”-type answers, only, will be disqualified, and this giveaway is limited to United States winners, only. Winners will be gifted their Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and $20 Amazon Gift Card, prizes directly from Momentum Publishers within a season. All entries will be personally verified, thank you and good luck!

To enter, readers must:

1. Follow Our Daily Bread Ministries and God Hears Her on Facebook, Facebook, Instagram, and Instagram.

2. Repost and Share the giveaway with the hashtag #unshakablemoxie.

3. For a bonus entry, in addition to all of the above-mentioned sign-ups for this giveaway, be sure to subscribe to God Hears Her emails. 

​​Friends, why do you most want to watch Unshakable Moxie? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Three Ways To Keep On Top Of Your Family Health

When it comes to looking after your family, their health is one of the most important areas to consider. Many factors impact the health of your family which means there are many ways you can have a positive impact. When you have children, you need to make sure you are passing down the life lessons that they need to become healthy adults too. 

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Let’s have a look at some of the ways you can look after the health of your family below: 

Think About A Healthy Diet 

This is all about teaching your children about eating a balanced diet. A balanced diet includes protein, vegetables, fruits, fiber, dairy, healthy fats, and goodies in moderation. Make sure you offer healthy food choices at all family meals right from the start. Your children will grow naturally eating a well-balanced diet this way. You should never say that foods are off limits; instead, teach them about moderation. If your children are picky eaters or struggle to eat fruits or vegetables, consider getting them involved with cooking some meals. Children are more likely to try new foods if they have joined in cooking them. 

Regular Health Checks 

Do you ever find yourself avoiding the dentist or putting off going to the doctor? When you have a family, this needs to stop. Children learn habits from their parents, so if they see you avoiding important appointments like this, then chances are they will too when they are older. Go for family dentist appointments together, and go to the doctor when you need to. If you have children who are nervous about going to the dentist, it might be a good idea to let them look at the website before the visit for example, have a look at https://www.riversidefamilydental.com/best-dentists-in-leesburg/ before your trip, this way they can get used to what it looks like.

The Importance Of Exercise 

If you are an adult who has struggled with exercise, then this is likely because you had parents who didn’t exercise much or taught you the importance of it. Exercise is something that should be in everyday life. Whether it’s walking to the shop, going for a family walk on the weekend, heading out on a cycle, or doing your regular workout, make sure you do it in front of your children. If they see you including exercise in regular life, then they will be much more likely to continue this through to adulthood. Try to include one element of exercise in your weekend routine, and consider walking to pick your children up from school. These are great ways to include exercise as a daily habit rather than have it feel like a chore. 

These are three ways you can get your children to learn about being healthy. If you do these then your children should take these good habits into their adult life. Do you have any other tips that could help? Please share them in the comments below. 

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Rewilding Your Backyard: How to Create a Natural Haven

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Rewilding your backyard is a concept that has begun to catch on recently to support local wildlife and create a greener space while beautifying your outdoor area. By allowing nature to have a clear run, you can enjoy a garden that is at once eco-friendly and visually appealing.

The necessary tools for rewilding

Most of the usual garden tools can come in useful in a bid to rewild your back garden, of the most important include a compost bin, which will allow you to decompose food waste and other perishable contents to provide natural nourishment for your soil; a weed wacker, which will be invaluable in separating the unwelcome intruders from the natural wildflowers and tall grasses you want to grow; and a watering can, which will allow you to keep the soil wet without the waste that comes with a hose.

Why rewild your garden?

Many people make the mistake of believing that rewilding is just leaving your garden to grow without intervention. In truth, the concept is all about encouraging the natural flora and fauna to grow as they would in an ideal world. Unfortunately, pesticides and changing temperatures have got in the way of this, and rewilding is about rebalancing this, encouraging small mammals, birds, and insects – particularly bees, who are invaluable to plant life – to find homes in your garden and give them a touch of tranquil natural beauty.

How to start rewilding

When done correctly, rewilding is not as work-intensive as maintaining a more pristine garden and ordered flower beds. It can be every bit as beautiful and even more rewarding, and it’s easy once you’ve taken the initial steps:

  • Research your local area: Everywhere has its own natural soils and plant life, and knowing what these are will make it easier to encourage natural proliferation. Also, local wildlife populations make it easier to source things like porcupine sanctuaries and birdhouses.
  • Create habitats for creatures: As well as aforementioned-spaces for mammals and birds, it’s wise to put up insect hotels, which will help bees and other beneficial bugs get some rest and nourishment before setting about pollinating your plants.
  • Reduce or remove chemical use: Pesticides and weedkillers don’t just kill pests and weeds. Sure, there will be a bit more work to be done to remove weeds when you can’t blast them, but their removal will be more permanent when you do it yourself, and your garden will look better, too.

Maintaining the rewilded garden

A rewilded garden doesn’t require precise manicuring of lawns and primping of rosebushes. It will require the occasional intervention to remove weeds and keep things comfortable for wildlife, and you’ll need to keep an eye on things to judge where you can add life to the soil. For the most part, though, a wilder garden takes care of itself and offers a more relaxed environment for you and anyone who passes through – and by encouraging the right kind of wildlife, you’ll help neighboring gardens look prettier too!

Friends, do you have quick tips to make gardening more eco-friendly at home? Please leave your tips in the comments below.

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