Connect Four

Connect Four is a classic game that was released in the mid-70’s. So if you remember this one fondly, you might feel your age!

You also won’t need assurance this is a fun game that you will enjoy playing with the kids.

 

Objective of the game – To be the first to connect four of your own discs of the same color next to each other vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

Number of players – Two.

How to play

Choose a color and then take turns dropping colored discs from the top into a seven-column, six-row vertically suspended grid.

The pieces fall straight down, occupying the next available space within the column.

Try to create 4 in a row of your own color vertically, horizontally or diagonally. You can block your opponent from getting 4 in a row by putting your own disc in.

Once the winner has "Connect Four", you can pull out the slider bar to release all the discs and start the fun all over again.

Also known as: Captain’s Mistress, Four Up, Plot Four, Find Four, Fourplay, Four in a Row and Four in a Line

Educational Benefits of Connect 4

As well as the basic benefits of playing games like practice following rules, how to be a ‘good sport’ – winning or losing, the Connect Four game also:

• Builds skills such as problem solving, basic math
• Encourages players to plan ahead – looking out for opportunities to connect 4 discs
• Provides opportunity to detect patterns
• Instigates prediction of the outcome of alternative moves – for your own play as well as your opponent’s. Keeping an eye on their moves keeps you one step ahead!
• Learn from experience – if you can ever get in a position to win by 2 options in one move, then you will never forget it!

  
  
  

Educational Toys and Games Resources

Snap – A simple, yet classic card game that your child will enjoy. Snap teaches your child to match pairs and, depending on the deck, can help your child recognize numbers or other objects featured on the cards

Go Fish – A simpler card game also suitable for children, Go Fish is ideal for first timers to the card game world. The game teaches your child to match and count pairs, and describe objects.

UNO – An all-time favorite card game, UNO is suitable for the whole family.

Snakes and Ladders – A Snakes and Ladders board game is the perfect addition for any household with young children. Not only is the game fun but also highly educational.

Abacus – Everyone knows the abacus is an amazing mathematical tool. It’s even claimed the abacus is instrumental in giving kids a head start.

Tupperware Shape Sorter – There are very few educational toys out there like the Tupperware Shape Sorter. Your child can play with this toy from newborn through to pre-schooler and not only will it entertain your child throughout, but also teach them many things along the way.