DIDACTIC GAMES FOR DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING IN CHILDREN AND THEIR IMPORTANCE

Authors

  • Rustamova Davlatkhon Toyirjon qizi The Teacher of Fergana State University
  • A’zamova Dildorakhon Ibroximjon qizi The Student of Fergana State University

Keywords:

Critical thinking, didactic games, cognitive development, problem-solving, education, pedagogy, children's learning, intellectual growth, early childhood education, creativity.

Abstract

This article explores the role of didactic games in fostering critical thinking skills among children. Critical thinking is crucial for a child's cognitive development, helping them to analyze, evaluate, and solve problems effectively. Didactic games, characterized by educational and skill-building elements, are increasingly used in modern pedagogical approaches to support children's intellectual growth. These games encourage creativity, decision-making, and problem-solving, fostering independence and enhancing logical reasoning abilities. This article reviews different types of didactic games, discusses their significance in early childhood education, and offers practical recommendations for teachers and educators to integrate such games into daily learning activities. The paper emphasizes that didactic games not only contribute to intellectual development but also support social skills and emotional maturity in children.

References

Piaget, J. (1972). Psychology and Pedagogy. Viking Press.Piaget's work on cognitive development and the stages of children's learning is foundational for understanding how children develop critical thinking skills.

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press. Vygotsky’s theory of social interaction and its impact on cognitive development emphasizes the role of language, culture, and play in children's learning.

Gredler, M. E. (2004). Games and Simulations in Learning and Education. Pearson Education. A detailed study on the role of games and simulations in educational settings and their potential for promoting critical thinking.

Hidi, S., & Anderson, V. (1986). Critical Thinking and Problem Solving in Children. Educational Psychology Review, 18(3), 295-312. A review of strategies to foster critical thinking in children, focusing on problem-solving methods and cognitive strategies.

Berk, L. E. (2013). Child Development (9th ed.). Pearson Education. A comprehensive resource on child development theories and practices, including discussions on cognitive development, critical thinking, and educational techniques.

Bruner, J. S. (1966). Toward a Theory of Instruction. Harvard University Press. Bruner’s work on discovery learning and the role of active participation in learning, relevant for understanding how games can enhance cognitive development.

Gee, J. P. (2003). What Video Games Have to Teach Us About Learning and Literacy. Computers in Entertainment (CIE), 1(1), 20-20. Explores the educational potential of video games, including their capacity to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Ginsburg, H. P. (2007). Early Childhood Education: The Essential Role of Play in the Development of Cognitive Skills. Journal of Education and Learning, 2(2), 1-12. A study emphasizing the critical role of play in early childhood education, including how games stimulate cognitive development and critical thinking.

Lillard, A. S. (2017). Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. Oxford University Press. This book discusses the Montessori educational approach and its focus on developing children's independence and critical thinking through structured activities and play.

Hughes, C. (2011). Social Understanding and Social Lives: From Toddlers to Teens. Psychology Press. A focus on the development of social and cognitive understanding in children, including how interactive games support these processes.

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Published

2025-01-25

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

DIDACTIC GAMES FOR DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING IN CHILDREN AND THEIR IMPORTANCE. (2025). European Journal of Pedagogical Initiatives and Educational Practices, 3(1), 99-101. https://europeanscience.org/index.php/4/article/view/1166