Enriching Education: Pokémon and Learning

 

Gotta Catch ‘Em All… Pokémon that is! Parents everywhere are familiar with Pikachu, Eevee and the various card games, video games and shows that coincide with these familiar characters. While some may think that playing Pokémon is merely a fun way to pass the time, Brainly, the world’s largest online learning platform and homework help community is here to show how kids’ love of all things Charizard can be educational. 

“The best way to teach kids is to meet them where they are and incorporate things they naturally have an interest in outside of a classroom, like Pokémon, into your lesson plans. Whether you use these characters to teach your latest science lesson or include Meowth in your math problem, there is an educational aspect to Pokémon,” according to Brainly’s Parenting Expert Patrick Quinn. 

But just how is Pokémon educational? In honor of National Pokémon Day yesterday, February 27^th, Brainly shares some ideas.

>> Pokémon and School
Whether you’re learning about science (hello Fire, Water, Electric, Ice, Ground, and more Pokémon types!) or teaching a math lesson, teachers and educators can use Pokémon as part of their lesson plans to engage students. Check out an example on Brainly!

>> Pokémon and Math
Playing Pokémon requires you to use math skills. Your child will practice their addition, subtraction, and multiplication skills all while playing Pokémon. 

>> Check Out Those “Punny” Pokémon Names
Did you know many of the Pokémon names are rooted in Greek, Latin, Japanese, and more? Here are some examples: 

• Pikachu – “pikapika” is Japanese for “sparkle” and chu is Japanese for “squeak”
• Squirtle – “squirt” means to shoot water and “turtle” is a water-based reptile 
• Clefable – “clef” is a musical symbol and “fable” is a fairytale
• Umbreon – “umbra” is the darkest part of a shadow and “eon” is a long period of time

>> Pokémon and Critical Thinking
If your children collect Pokémon cards, encourage them to learn the game. It will teach them critical thinking skills and how to deal with complex situations. Played yourself when you were younger? There is knowledge in nostalgia - test your memory and add Pokémon to your family game nights! 

>> Pokémon and the Imagination
Pokémon encourages children to use their imaginations and think outside of the box. The ability to imagine is the key to success in countless professions, including business, science, technology, education, and writing.