Latest update March 28th, 2025 6:05 AM
Jun 16, 2009 Sports
By Rawle Welch
In a recent conversation with Minister of Sport Dr. Frank Anthony on the subject of why the board game Scrabble is not being played in schools, he quickly responded by saying, that once the Ministry is approached by the Governing Body of the sport, he would be willing to offer assistance to expand the game to schools.
The Minister pointed out that Chess has been able to make a triumphant return to schools because of the persistence of certain members of the Federation, who have displayed the dedication and determination to ensure that the game makes a full fledge revival.
According to Minister Anthony, what they’ve done is to make sure that the game is not played only at the senior level, but more importantly that it experiences development at the junior plateau as well.
The Guyana Chess Federation has conducted classes for teachers and students from various schools across the country and earlier this year had invited a German Grandmaster to Guyana to hold workshops and play against students simultaneously, all aimed at helping to boost the image and popularity of the sport.
The staging of tournaments has picked up speed as well and they must be commended for this, and perhaps it is this kind of approach that has encouraged the Minister to extend unequivocal support to the entity.
Those in charge of Scrabble must follow suit, the Minister did indicate that an invitation is on the table anytime if approached for backing, but now it is up to the relevant stakeholder to accept the offer.
Research has shown that the benefits of playing these two board games are numerous and at a time when the society is littered with negative distractions that have evidently caused a decline in social behaviour and low academic achievements, it is therefore essential that the Guyana Association of Scrabble Players help check the slide into such unhelpful diversions.
One of the most important benefits is the interaction and bonding, playing games brings to families.
Board games are a great way for family members to relax and challenge their minds.
It also helps children learn to think logically, while playing and having fun, they also practice such skills as counting, reading, visual perception, eye-hand coordination and dexterity.
They learn about healthy competition, verbal communication and to focus their attention.
One of the most researched board games is chess and there have been frequent studies publicising the academic benefits of playing the game.
Studies have found that playing chess increases reading performance, math ability and IQ.
It further stated that Chess develops a new form of thinking, and this exercise is what contributes to increase intelligence quotient.
Recent researchers speculate that the success of chess is due to the growth of new brain connections, while Scrabble one of the best and most loved word games helps improve language skills.
Mar 28, 2025
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