Fun Classroom Games by the Makers of Exploding Kittens
Incorporating games into the classroom can be a fantastic way to engage students, foster teamwork, and build critical thinking skills. The creators of the wildly popular game Exploding Kittens have developed several other games that are perfect for a classroom setting. Here’s a look at three of their best: Power Hungry Pets, That Escalated Quickly, and Danger Danger.
1. Power Hungry Pets
Overview: Power Hungry Pets is a strategy game where students must balance feeding their pets with gaining special abilities to outsmart their opponents. It’s a quick-paced game that requires players to think ahead and plan their moves carefully.
Why It’s Great for the Classroom:
Strategic Thinking: Students will practice strategic planning and decision-making as they determine the best way to allocate their resources.
Engagement: The fun theme and dynamic gameplay keep students engaged and entertained.
Social Skills: Players need to interact and negotiate with each other, fostering communication and social interaction.
Classroom Application: This game can be used as a reward for good behavior or as a fun activity to break up the day. It’s also a great way to encourage students to think critically and work together.
2. That Escalated Quickly
Overview: That Escalated Quickly is a card game where players must build and escalate stories based on the cards they draw. The goal is to create the most compelling and outrageous stories, which makes for a lot of laughter and creativity.
Why It’s Great for the Classroom:
Creativity: Encourages students to use their imagination and come up with unique, entertaining stories.
Language Skills: Helps develop language and storytelling skills as students craft their narratives.
Public Speaking: Provides a fun, low-pressure way for students to practice speaking in front of their peers.
Classroom Application: Use this game during language arts lessons or as a creative writing exercise. It can also be a fun way to end the day, allowing students to express themselves and enjoy some creative playtime.
3. Danger Danger
Overview: Danger Danger is a game where your team’s goal is to have the most Cases showing at the end of the round. You do this by drawing and placing cards, while the other team tries to thwart you. In order to win, you have to finish playing by the time a 60-second timer runs out. Oh, and you can’t see the timer at all! That means it’s just you, your teammates, and your combined instincts racing against an invisible clock and the other players.
Why It’s Great for the Classroom:
Problem-Solving: Students must think on their feet and come up with solutions to avoid dangers.
Teamwork: Encourages cooperation and teamwork as players work together to navigate the game.
Adaptability: Teaches students to adapt to new situations and think creatively under pressure.
Classroom Application: This game can be used to develop problem-solving skills and encourage teamwork. It’s a great activity for group work and can be incorporated into lessons about safety, strategy, or even physical education.
Benefits of Using Games in the Classroom
Engagement: Games capture students' attention and make learning fun. They are a great way to break the monotony of traditional lessons and keep students interested.
Skill Development: Many games help develop critical skills such as strategic thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication.
Social Interaction: Playing games encourages students to interact with each other, building social skills and fostering a sense of community in the classroom.
Stress Relief: Games provide a break from the usual academic pressure, allowing students to relax and enjoy themselves while still learning valuable lessons.
TL;DR
Incorporating games like Power Hungry Pets, That Escalated Quickly, and Danger Danger into your classroom can enhance learning, build important skills, and create a fun and engaging environment for students. These games by the makers of Exploding Kittens are not only entertaining but also educational, making them a perfect addition to any teacher’s toolkit. Give them a try and watch your students thrive!