Children at school are given plenty of opportunity to practise
learning, but perhaps not enough opportunities to
practise thinking.
Minibridge requires and develops a full
range of conscious thinking processes that will
ultimately lead to quicker, clearer and more effective young
minds.
Your head needs to be lifted and you will
be expected to justify your actions and will want to challenge
others on theirs - can you do this without causing undue stress
or build -up of tension? If you can, you will find social
success much easier later in life
You have to be able to count to 40 to play
the game meaningfully. You have to constantly count to 13
using addition and subtraction operations as well as some
inferential lateral thinking
You have to be able to count to 40 to play
the game meaningfully. You have to constantly count to 13
using addition and subtraction operations as well as some
inferential lateral thinking
As well as key data handling, players need to plan the play
of their own cards, keep a record of tricks won/lost and stay
focused on the team target at all times
Playing cooperatively with a partner is essential
to the positive outcomes in the game
In order to observe detail and retain important
information, a high level of concentration is required. Such
levels of concentration will, of course, be invaluable when
they face school exams or other important tasks later on in
life.
The outcome of a game may turn on a decision
which needs to be made quickly
The game only makes sense if targets are
identified and goals are set. Achievement is based on keeping
focused on those goals just like in exams or in other life
challenges
Losing is very much part of the game -
coping with the disappointment and gearing up for “another
try” is excellent for character building
Compliance with the rules promotes respect for others
and self-discipline. The game cannot be played in anarchic
circumstances
The game can be played with and against staff or one’s
own family members providing valuable cross-generational
ties and bringing down all kinds of social barriers and
taboos
Children who learn Minibridge at school often go straight
home to teach their family and friends how to play.
This not only brings families back together round the
same table but enables children to demonstrate what they
have learnt and beat their parents or older siblings at
a game of skill and strategy. An incredible boost to their
sense of achievement and self-confidence.
It is truly amazing that a card game can help develop so
many different skills and provide so many disciplines in
such an absorbing and entertaining way.
Pictured below are two senior citizens
each partnering a 10 year old player.

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