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Children learn through play. As an occupational therapist who works with children and youth, I use games and toys almost every day to help develop important cognitive, visual perceptual, motor, sensory, social, play and leisure skills. While many different types of activities can be used in therapy, this blog focuses on off-the-shelf games and toys that are accessible to most. Whether you are a therapist, parent, teacher, or a game lover like me, I hope you discover something useful while you are here. Learn a different way to play a game you already own or discover a new game for your next family game night. Either way, just go play. It's good for you!

The OT Magazine named The Playful Otter one of the Top 5 Pediatric OT Blogs.


Jul 18, 2016

Brain Box - The USA

Brain Box - The USA


Brain Box is a game that lets you work on visual memory while learning facts about the United States. Each card features one state and will show a very simple map of that state and objects representing what that state is known for. 

Similar to Stare, each card has a picture on the front and eight questions on the back. Stare at the picture for 10 seconds (???) with the intention of remembering as many details as you can, then turn the card over. Throw the die, and answer the question that corresponds to the number thrown. If you are correct, you win the card. Be the first to win five cards to win the game. 

I have never seen a 10 second timer before, and for me, that is not enough time. I just use a 1 minute timer from another game. University Games, the maker of Brain Box games, has many different Brain Box themes, including dinosaurs, teddy bears, inventions, once upon a time, nature, senior moments, world history.

Try this:
  • Tell the individual to look at the details on the card with the intent of remembering.
  • Skip the timer and set your own time to review the card.
  • Tell the individual to repeat details out loud as they look at the picture.  They may remember more if they are an auditory learner, or if they bring more senses into play.
  • Ask all eight questions and see how many can be answered.
  • Work on visual memory, auditory memory, process skills, socialization skills, play and leisure exploration and participation
In the box: 55 cards, one 10 second timer, 8-sided die
Ages 8+, 1+ players


For more information, click on the image below.

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