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Chutes and Ladders

Chutes and Ladders, or Snakes and Ladders, is a game of rewards and consequences. As kids travel along the game path, they encounter situations that reward them for good deeds by letting them climb the ladders or send them down chutes for misbehaving!

At the same time, they are learning to recognize numbers and count to 100.

Looking for an opening to talk about life lessons? This game provides that too.

Since there are no words printed on the squares, adults can make up stories about what is happening or ask the child to tell what he thinks is happening and get a conversation going. It takes a little bit longer to finish the game this way, but you get a peek into a child's mind and see where things are coming from. Be prepared for some interesting tales! A child's imagination is an amazing place to explore.

This game can be a little frustrating for little ones just learning to count and read, but these are challenges that are worthwhile overcoming with time spent playing this fun family game.

Object of the game: Make it from 1 to 100 sliding down as little, if any, chutes as possible.

How to play the game: Move your game piece along the board according to the number you spun on the spinner. If a ladder begins in the square you landed on, climb the ladder and end your turn on the square the ladder ends in. If a chute begins in the square you landed on, slide down the chute and end your turn on the square the chute ends in.

Why parents love this game:

• All ages can play
• No batteries needed
• Encourages taking and waiting for turns
• Children hone their number recognition skills
• Great opportunity for teachable moments
• It is a great family activity, either for story time or game time
• Encourages children to overcome obstacles when trying to reach a goal
• Since it is not a game based on skill, children can feel good about themselves when they legitimately beat the grown-ups!
  
  

More about Chutes & Ladders around the Web:

Snakes & Ladders - Wikipedia

Making Chutes & Ladders even more educational