What is Gameschooling?

If you've been in the homeschooling world for any amount of time, you've probably heard the term gameschooling.  But what is gameschooling?  Is it a new tech program?  A new virtual online school?  What exactly is the hype all about? Well, that's what we're going to be talking about today.  What is Gameschooling?  And how can I incorporate it into my own homeschool?

Gameschooling is all about using games for teaching concepts.  Everything from Math to Language Arts, History to Science... even Art History and Music.  Combining academic subjects with hands on fun to bring learning to life... and throwing in a few laughs as well.  And gameschooling incorporates some of those social skills that are so necessary as well: taking turns, strategy, working with a partner, being a gracious loser, problem solving, and more!

Gameschooling can be used as a primary source of teaching information (such as nature topics) or as a supplement to what you're learning in your book work.  And playing games is highly disarming.  When I find that we're running into a mental roadblock, I'll often look for a game that will address the same concept to help my children learn it in a fun way.  Playing a game puts my children at ease and allows them to better grasp the concepts that I'm trying to teach.

Gameschooling is also a wonderful way to bring the family together.  While some subject areas are better taught at grade level (math in particular), others can be taught or reviewed in a group.  Gameschooling is a great way of leveling the playing field and having everyone learn together.  It's also a wonderful way of inviting other family members into your homeschool.  Grandma doesn't have to feel comfortable with Algebra, but may be more than happy to play a math game with the kids.

Furthermore, you can find a game on nearly any subject.  Logic, geography, history, and language arts just to name a few.  Over the years, we've used both traditional games and some of the more "educational" games to incorporate gameschooling into our home.  Additionally, Teachers Pay Teachers is a wonderful site for finding grade level printables and holiday specific learning challenges such as mad libs, crosswords, word searches, escape rooms, and more.

Gameschooling has become an intregal part of our homeschool over the years, allowing us to learn new ideas from a comfortable, fun angle without feeling the pressure of checking off all the boxes.  It's a wondeful way to create memories in your family while addressing academics and embracing your family culture.

Have you tried gameschooling?

What are some of your favorites?