Great computer games - Ayiti: The Cost of Life

Not an incredibly intricate or information heavy game designed by the Global Kids Playing 4 Keeps Program right here in Brooklyn. The strength of the game is that it introduces children to the horrible situation in Haiti and very simply drives home the message that in some unfortunate circumstances, hard work and education are sadly not enough. Some people are in situations where help is direly needed and - for at least a while, until they can get back on their feet - international help and attention is the only way to return a family to normalcy.

Play Ayiti here and let me know what you think!



"The reality for most people living in Haiti (especially true after the earthquake) is that it is extremely hard to survive in Haiti. I don't think they want to be completely fatalistic, but this is teaching a very important message; hard work does not automatically translate into success in Haiti. My students clearly learned this from the game." Educator Cliff Lee on Educators Using Ayiti

Great computer games - iCivics

Middle School students love to play computer games
+ we love it when they learn enthusiastically about government and civic responsibility
= playing icivics.org.

Playing good games is an incredible way to learn.  Great games are leveled, sequenced, users can control their learning and they can usually play at their own pace.  The score part is somewhat disagreeable but on the whole they can be amazing learning experiences.

Check out iCivics and their Democracy Lab as you plan your study of American Government and civic responsibility! They have really engaging games that both explain the three branches of American Government and show young users how they can participate in their communities. 

More game recommendations to follow...