“Games are not always a waste of time!”

A recent study shows that young children learn to follow rules, wait for their turn, work with others and accept winning or losing politely. By playing games, children learn and practice important skills that can be useful in the future.

Playing board games can increase children’s attention. That is to say, players must play the game to the end without any interruptions (干扰). For example, they shouldn’t check their phones or leave the table for a snack. Playing board games or card games is also a great way to take a break from screens. We all know that too much screen time does no good.

Playing games is not just for kids. It’s also good for adults. They need to make time for enjoyment. This kind of activity can stimulate (刺激) the release of endorphins (内啡肽). It can make people feel happy. Sharing laughter and fun while playing games not only brings people closer but also makes brain work better. After playing a game, your brain can relax and be sharper when you go back to work.

Playing games helps keep a young mind. So make some time to play a game today!

Why play games? Because they are fun, and a lot more besides. Following the rules...planning your next move...acting as a team member...these are all “game” ideas that you will come across throughout your life. Think about some of the games you played as a young child, such as rope-jumping and hide-and-seek. Such games are entertaining and fun. But perhaps more importantly, they translate life into exciting dramas that teach children some of the basic rules they will be expected to follow the rest of their lives, such as taking turns and cooperating.

Many children’s games have a practical side. Children around the world play games that prepare them for work they will do as grown-ups. For instance, some Saudi Arabian children play a game called bones, which sharpens the hand-eye coordination needed in hunting.

Many sports encourage national or local pride. The most famous games of all, the Olympic Games, bring athletes from around the world together to take part in friendly competitions. People who watch the event wave flags, knowing that a gold medal is a win for an entire country, not just the athlete who earned it. For countries experiencing natural disasters or war, an Olympic win can mean so much.

Sports are also an event that unites people. Soccer is the most popular sport in the world. People on all continents play it—some for fun and some for a living. Nicolette Iribarne, a Californian soccer player, has discovered a way to give people hope through soccer. He created a foundation to provide poor children with not only soccer balls but also a promising future.

Next time you play your favorite game or sport, think about why you enjoy it, what skills are needed, and whether these skills will help you in other aspects of your life.

During ancient times (古时候), children didn’t have smart phones, iPads or computers to have fun. Instead, they came up with interesting games to play in their childhood. Let’s take a look.