18 Feb SCRABBLE JUNIOR
SCRABBLE JUNIOR
SCRABBLE JUNIOR
EditorInChief
Although durability is disappointing, with the suggested work-around, it is an excellent game to foster learning, pre-reading/reading, pre-writing, and fun with the family and friends.
Meets Expectations
Durability
Versatility
Engagement
The Essentials
As an avid family Scrabble player since childhood, it was easy to test this game out! First, this updated version has two levels built- in to one (1) double sided board. The strategy and pieces incorporated for advancing a child from matching, pre-reading skills to creating their own words are on point.
On the entry level side, Scrabble concepts are introduced via a crossword-like template. The words/letters they need to match are large and the board is colorful and interesting to look at. Though I prefer the wooden pieces, the cardboard letters used in this game are durable enough and easily manipulated, if a child has age appropriate hand skills.
After matching a word, players move their game character along a numbered border to keep track of their points. Points are tallied by moving a game token (cute word character) from the Starting line on the border every time a player completes a word – this is also a great way to learn how to manage small game pieces, move them one space at a time, and counting.
When all of the tiles have been used, the player who advanced the furthest (earned the most points) wins. ***Be aware that these pieces are small enough to be a choking hazard.
When your child is ready to create their own words, you flip the board over to use the advanced level – this game does accommodate your child as they get older and more skilled.
Fun Factor
If you enjoy scrabble, then you will enjoy playing this game with your child –
watching them build their letter recognition, turn taking, point counting, and pre-reading/reading
skills is very satisfying. Once the children can follow the rules, it is fantastic for peer groups aged 5+ to play independently. For children with special needs, learning to play games that build their current physical and academic skills, while also being socially appropriate is a critical part of their overall well-being. The panel of experts, kid consultants, and the Toy Doctor herself give this game a high-five for engagement.
Set-Up and Clean-Up
The ability to set-up, clean- up, and store this game is easy if you provide a ziploc for the letter “tiles” and if you are very careful with folding the board. The board requires two folds (dividing the board into 4 parts) to fit back into the box. The repetitive folding/wear and tear at the creases causes the board to be easily torn.
The IF-THEN’S and the BUT’S
Although durability is disappointing, with the suggested work around it is an excellent game to foster learning, pre-reading/reading, pre-writing, and fun with the family and/or friends.
If you want the board to last, as long as the kids will still want to continue playing this game, you may want to consider reinforcing the creases of the board with clear mailing tape (on the side intended to bent inward). This strategy has worked well for me.
If your child has a tendency to place small objects into his/her mouth – you may consider waiting on this game until that behavior is mitigated or play when you have one person partnered with them and vigilantly ensuring that no game pieces enter their mouth. The packaging does indicate: WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD – Small parts. Not for children under 3 years. In addition it indicates — Adult assembly required, I believe this is aimed to have adults unfold and refold the game board, in an attempt to avoid it being torn at the seams.
HOW TO AUGMENT THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT
When using toys and games, we can facilitate increased general learning and target specific learning areas; enhance creativity and imagination; further foster problem solving and memory; target specific physical (gross and fine motor) skills, social skills, and communication; and we can foster sensory processing and modulation. Learn how to maximize the use of this product for your child, clients, or patients.
NOTE: Not all games lend to a wide variety of alternate strategies. The level and amount of suggestions will vary from game to game and may be added to from time to time.
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