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on June 18, 2009

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Not only are time management games fun and interesting to play but there is an added benefit that many may not realize until they’ve spent some time playing them and applied some of the techniques they developed in game play to real life situations.

Online time management games come in a variety of forms and if you do a web search you’ll see that these time management games are only limited by the developer’s imagination in the creation of the games. In one time management game you might be operating your own shop or restaurant, running the family wine making business or building a real estate empire. What makes all of these games similar is that you are only given a certain amount of time in order to complete the various tasks and finish games.

There is a vast variety of time management games available as well as different levels of difficulty. Many of these games are free of cost and available for instant download but the more interesting ones you’ll most likely have to pay for.

In order to get the most out of playing these time management games there are 8 things that you might want to consider before getting started in order to develop your time management skills along the way. I don’t want this to read too much like a 12 step program but you might see some similarities in this.

1. Understand that you have a challenge in front of you.
As with any situation, and that does not exclude time management, you must admit to yourself first that you need work in this area. If you never seem to be able to finish an assignment on time or always wait until the last minute to get started, could be good indications that that you need work in this area.

2. Make the commitment to change.
Once you are aware change is needed and you realize that the time management techniques that you are currently employing is not working, you realize that you have no other choice other than to take some form of action to make this change stick.

3. Stay the course.
Consistency is the key to being successful in almost everything we do and this is certainly true when it come to improving our time management skills. However it’s best to avoid being driven into overwhelm; in other words, baby-steps at first.

4. Make a daily task list.
The least favorable and largest task on you list should be accomplished first. Just to get that one item checked off your list will give you a great sense of accomplishment and relief. Update your list of tasks daily in order to get things done on time, avoiding another wasted day and the regret that goes along with it.

5. Take advantage of the time management tools that are available to you.
If you were able to take a look at how high-level executives and others in equally important time-sensitive positions manage their time you would see that most take full advantage of tools that are available to them for this purpose. It used to be, we only had an alarm clock and a diary to manage our time but now in the information age there are so many things available to most of us, like cell phones that can keep track of everything for us, not to mention computer programs that remind us of important events and deadlines and schedules.

6. Just say no to non-productivity.
If there is something important that you must accomplish and the phone rings and you spend a couple of hours chatting about nothing related to what you need to accomplish, a polite to say no would be; “sorry, I’m really busy right now” would have prevented that wasted time which might put you two hours behind schedule.

7. Prevention through organizing
Keeping things filed and put in their proper place will be a great time saver when you don’t have to look for a lost file or document later. It will take you a lot less time to put them in their right place the first time than having to go back and look for them later. Also, once items are in there place don’t move them unless it is absolutely necessary.

8. Consult with the pros
Mentoring and coaching is big business these days and for a good reason; they are very helpful. If you ask most successful people these days they will probably tell you that they were coached or mentored at some point in there life. This type of professional help can be very affordable but more importantly effective. It maybe to your benefit to have someone there looking over your shoulder or perhaps giving you a push when you need it.

You old habits might be hard to break; you might just want to start off by playing one of the many time management games available online.

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A Few Safety Tips for Parents When it Comes to Gaming Systems for Your Kids

Published

on June 16, 2009

Computer gaming systems like the Xbox 360 or the Nintendo Wii are some of the of the most popular birthday and Christmas gifts for children these days and they allow gamers the freedom of playing a huge variety of video games without ever leaving the home. These types of gifts don’t come cheap, so some considerations must be given before the purchase is made.

When conducting your own research into which game system to buy, parents should also think about issues regarding safety, since the nature of interactive and social games, mean the young player may be exposed to potential hazards and further more, if the game platform is connected online, they will be interacting directly with other players in the anonymous cyber word.

Needless to say, parents must lead by example and set standards and guidelines for their children to follow regarding the nature of the games they will be playing and prohibit games that may be inappropriate or intended for a more mature audience.

It is vital parents apply these values and safety measure in regard to gaming system that we bring into our homes so that the positives from this far outweigh the potential negatives.

Perhaps the first measure of safety that a parent can implement once the game console has found its way into the home is to limit the amount of play time children are allowed with the game system. It’s easy for a child’s life to become out of balance once one of these game consoles have entered the home and they can easily begin to neglect other important aspects of their lives like schoolwork, exercising and socializing with friends.

The second thing you might want to consider is to avoid violent games and replace them with those that involve logic, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Games involving musical instruments or any type of game relating to sports can be equally as interesting and challenging. Let your kids know up front that you will be censoring what games they are exposed to and are concerned about their safety to avoid dealing with any difficult questions or misunderstandings in the future.

Another safety tip is to make sure the game console stays in an area where a parent can easily observe what game in being played by the kids.

As a parent the best thing to do is to just use good common sense when making these choices for their children and after all, these games are supposed to be fun and entertaining and never harmful.

If you’re buying the game for younger kids, the plug and play type is probably the best way to go since it will certainly eliminate the online hazard.

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Children Can Develop Skills in Problem Solving with Sudoku

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on June 14, 2009

By nature, child’s mind is like a sponge when it comes to learning new things. The old school of thought is that as children reach certain ages, the way in which they comprehend new information changes in stages. However, new research has contributed to theories that demonstrate children do not learn in a linear or straight forward way as previously thought, but instead their learning varies as a result of individual factors or circumstances.

It has been shown that children in fact use many different methods simultaneously to comprehend new information and many of these strategies have been observed at a much younger age than once thought.

Once children have reached the age at which they enter school, they are prepared for developing more complicated methods of problem solving. When children reach this stage of intellectual development, in order to truly cultivate their problem solving skills it is extremely helpful to use of challenging puzzle games like; Sudoku.

The game Sudoku can be considered a logic based math game, but at first sight it appears more like a crossword puzzle due to its grid like layout. Sudoku is played on square 9 X 9 grid totaling 81 squares with each square again divided up 3 high by 3 wide sections. The game does not start off with an empty grid but instead numbers are pre-placed in chosen squares to be used as clues. It is up to the player to figure out where the remaining numbers should go.

What makes Sudoku challenging and unique is that the numbers 1 – 9 may only be used one time in each section, column or row. A decision must be made by the player as to where to place what number and in which square while still follow the rule of not repeating the order in other sections.

Many consider math the language of science and the subject is universally understood, not being bound by any language constraints, regardless of culture or geographic location. In the problem solving game of Sudoku, you solve for the grid through the use of; process of elimination and logic only. Each puzzle only has one right answer and range in difficulty from simple to very complex.

Children are able to apply many problem solving strategies through playing the Sudoku game puzzles like the “Guess and Check” method, which can be applied to so many other aspects of real world situations. Not only do these puzzles develop your reasoning and logic skills, they are great fun to play as well. There is no doubt that Sudoku games encourage creativity, they also inspire children to be more flexible in their Problem solving style.

An additional benefit to having children play Sudoku games, is that it helps foster a positive attitude regarding math and avoid any early age math anxiety that may develop, which could possibly hamper further development in this area.

Not only will the skills developed playing Sudoku benefit them in math and science, but it may also help with the problem solving skills necessary to excel in other academic areas and countless real world scenarios.

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Developing Problem Solving Skills in Children by Learning Checkers and Chess

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on June 13, 2009

When young children discover the games of checkers and chess they have a head-start in developing their critical thinking and problem solving skills. Problem solving games like checkers and chess have many advantages over other types of games since they are very socially interactive (unlike video computer games that are especially popular these days.)

Having children play problem solving games like checkers and chess is a fantastic way for them to have a closer look at how their decision making determines the outcome of the game.

To convince children that they should try playing the games of checkers and chess, you might want to encourage them by suggesting that these games are a form of combat, instead of just simple game pieces and a checkered board.

The “Stop and Think” strategy of seeing things should be implemented at an early age so that children at all developmental levels can build the foundation for a lifetime of positive problem solving and critical thinking developmental skills.

Critical thinking and problem solving skills are vital at any age, and many family therapists would agree, if more people used the stop and think principal, fewer marriages would end in divorce.

A useful strategy for teaching your children problem solving skills includes the following five steps:

1. Identify the problem and have them finish the sentence; “The problem that I’m having is …..”
2. Consider 3 possible ways to remedies the problems with solutions.
3. Spent one minute for each of these options and decided if they are good or bad decisions.
4. Out of the three possible solutions, decide which one is your best option.
5. Employ your chosen option to the situation and see if it is successful.

A simple way to teach the five step strategy to young children is to apply it to the game of checkers. That way the decisions that they make in regard to the checker moves will in no way have any consequence in the real world.

The following exercise of allowing the young student to actually make the entire checker board moves for instance, before any opponent can make a counter move. Instill in them to always refer back to the old adage; “Consider all of your options.” that type of play can prove to be beneficial by removing any anxiety they my face in a real game or real life situation.

• The first move for the young player to consider will be to choose one move after considering three potential ones.
• Make that chosen move. Once they have committed to that move have them ask allowed; “Was that a smart move or not the best choice?” If the decision is made that it was not the best choice, have them make another move.
• Once again, make that chosen move, only this time have them ask themselves; “Now that I have committed to this move, what are the options that my opponent has to counter my move?”

Its best to have the kids think in terms of considering all of their options and to slow down and really think about the consequences of these moves, feeling free to go ahead change that initial move to one that they feel is more beneficial.

A suggestion to parents might be try this critical thinking exercise with your children at home by playing the game of checkers with them and allowing them the freedom of changing their moves even after they’ve taken their hand off of the checker game piece. This training exercise is best employed if the child is age 6 or older so the full grasp the concept of critical decision making. After each game if you closely observe, you’ll see the child’s decision making skills develop and become more refined.

Now the next step is to bridge the gap between the game of checkers and real-world scenarios using the terminology from the game, Like asking; “Is this the best option or maybe we should re-think our options.”

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Build Your Very Own Paradise in the Game: Flower Paradise

Published

on June 11, 2009

in For Kids & Teens, For Parents & Teachers, Game Reviews and Reviews

If you ever wanted a peaceful place to relax on the weekends or after a long day at work, then there’s no better spot to unwind than your very own custom designed garden with all the amenities to make your cares just melt away.
In flower paradise you are given ample space to create and customize a setting that is just right for you. You start with just the basic layout in an open or fenced in area which in the Japanese scene includes; a pond, a walk way with the rest of the area filled in with grass where you are free to plant pr place many different things. There is also the option of creating a French or Hawaiian garden.

You have the opportunity to purchase all the amenities necessary to make your garden just to your liking however, these things will cost you money and you’ll be surprised how expensive they can be.

You earn money to furnish you garden whenever you play the connect-three mini-games and complete them by filling in the entire screen. Once finished, you can return to your garden and start shopping for all the amenities with the money you have earned.
There are a variety of categories to choose from when deciding how to spend your money. If you want to add more plants or other flora that’s fine or perhaps a large fish for the pond might just add that special touch. Just remember the more elaborate the up-grade, the more you’re going to pay.

Creating just the right mix of flowers, plants, bird and ornaments and is more art than science and you must stick to the original theme in order for it to turn out successful in the end.

The tranquil background soundtrack in this game really sets the mood and might just be the type of music you’d want to listen to in your garden to maintain the peace and harmony.

Link for free download Flower Paradise Game

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Doggie Daycare

Published

You can buy this Doggie Daycare Game here

on June 11, 2009

in For Parents & Teachers, Game Reviews, New Games and Reviews

Doggie Daycare Game If you are a dog lover like so many of us you enjoy providing a good home for Fido, but could you imagine taking care of several dogs all at once, in fact other people’s canines. You’ll find out if you are up to the task in this game simulator created for windows.
Your dear ailing Aunt Marian is in need of your help and asks you to take over all aspects of running the dog-sitting service. You begin the game on a limited budget with only $250 in the businesses account. This must cover all costs including; dog food, supplies for cleaning and grooming and dog toys to keep them from getting bored.

This is more of a small business simulator than a computer game since your duties will mirror that of an actual small business owner, incorporating the often mundane tasks of; feeding, grooming, exercising them and teaching them a few dog tricks along the way.

You are graded by the three bars that are situated next to the cage and the more favorable the score the better the business’s credibility becomes.

This is not the easiest game to navigate through and even the simplest of tasks can seem daunting at times. Even filling up the food and water dishes can seem challenging the first time through this game.

This game was created by Tivola Publishing for Viva Media and is for players 6 and up.

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New Games for Free Download

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New Games

Published

admin

on June 11, 2009

in For Kids & Teens and New Games

New Free Flash Games

New Puzzle Games

New Card and Board Games

Continue reading ‘New Games’

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Lost Secrets: Caribbean Explorer – Secrets of the Sea

Published

on June 10, 2009

in For Kids & Teens, For Parents & Teachers, Game Reviews and Reviews

If you enjoy playing hidden object games, then you must try; Lost Secrets: Caribbean Explorer – Secrets of the Sea. Finding not only your father but also his missing treasure is the name of the game here and in order to save your fathers life you must also find his treasure.

There 15 hidden objects in each scene with 3 hints given at the beginning of the game. You can accumulate more hints throughout the game by clicking on the gold coins you find in the many scenes. It’s easy to get stuck in this game since the items are hidden so well so it’s best to use your hints sparingly.

Like many of the hidden object games you are given the option of either playing in the timed or relaxed mode. When game play is in the timed mode, you are penalized 45 seconds for every hint used and clicking on the wrong item will cost you 10 second penalty. You might want to consider playing the game in the relaxed mode the first time through to avoid the penalties.

If you should get stuck in one of the scenes by not finding all the listed objects you have the option of returning to the map and choosing another scene inside each of the missions to continue. Once in the game, you are not allowed to go back to previous scenes and can only move forward with the game.

There are several mini-games and puzzles which you must solve in between levels that include; a map puzzle that requires you to reconstruct a map with several different pieces of torn paper. Another is a dice game that requires you to roll a certain number and depending on the total dice value, you are given a score and are awarded accordingly.

Once you have started on the third mission (which begins on the black ship) you must use the magnifying glass that is available on your screen to search for the hidden objects since there are difficult to spot with naked eye.

The game follows a particular sequence; typically 2 to 3 scenes and then 1 mini-game to complete one mission however, missions 15 and 16 are hidden object scenes only and if you complete all 16 missions you have successfully completed the game.

Link for free download Lost Secrets: Caribbean Explorer Secrets of the Sea Game

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Find Just the Right Mystical, Magical Potion in: Mystical Emporium

Published

on June 10, 2009

in For Kids & Teens, For Parents & Teachers, Game Reviews and Reviews

Lilly the young witch, who has been working in a mystical library for far too long, finally has to opportunity to fulfill a life long dream of owning her own magic shop. She encounters an elderly witch who is the proprietor of an established magic shop and is willing to sell the business to her on an easy payment plan.

Filling orders for the wide array of customers in the least amount of time is the task at hand as they magically appear from a cob-web near the counter. You need to move quickly since you will need to earn a minimum amount of money in the allotted time. You are also awarded with tip money should you get the orders to the customers extra fast.

There is more to this game than just removing stocked items from the shelves and handing them to your mystical patrons. Many of their orders require you cooking up a witches brew in your cauldron to create their magic potion of choice.

There are many ways you can strategize in this time management game to become faster and more efficient. It goes back to the old adage that your first employer probably told you; “Isn’t there something you could be doing right now instead of just standing around?” It’s possible to prefab many of the orders before hand and restocking items before they are ordered.

Just like with almost any type of business, if you look around the shop there are many ways to improve your efficiency before you are swamped with customers. After each round of play, you can use your earnings to buy upgrades for your shop like; A cauldron that allows you to brew the potions faster or a magic harp that allows you more time to serve your customers. Unfortunately these upgrades are only good for that one level of play and must be re-purchased for the next level if you prefer that particular upgrade. You can try the many upgrades to see what’s right for you.

In between some levels of play there are mini-games that allow you to win charms by correctly matching symbols of various colors in order to create a potion of a particular color. To avoid confusion, there are always instructions for each mini-game before you start them.

You are awarded with trophies in this game once achievements certain levels of proficiency like 100% customer satisfaction.

Link for free download Mystic Emporium Game

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Join The Hardy boys: The Perfect Crime

Published

on June 10, 2009

in For Kids & Teens, For Parents & Teachers, Game Reviews and Reviews

Frank and Joe Hardy, the teen icons detectives are at it again as. It’s amazing how much crime there is in their home town of Bayport; a quiet suburban middle-class community. They just can’t help themselves and this time their mystery has been brought to life in the computer game: The Hardy boys - The Perfect Crime.

This game is not simple to play, with its challenging mini-games, sophisticated plot and over 70 levels of play. There is no getting around the many puzzles throughout the game and you have no other choice but to solve them otherwise you will be stuck at that point in will not be able to progress any further.

You have the option of playing the game in either the timed or relaxed mode and are provided with 3 hints per scene. Use these hints sparingly, since there is no way to receive more hints for any level of play.

You are penalized for multiple incorrect clicks in a row when searching for hidden objects, you don’t lose any points, however your cursor will be inoperable for a few seconds. This should only be an issue when playing the game in the timed mode.

At what seems like random points in the game, dialog boxes which read like a comic books captions appear. You have the option of reading through them to enhance the enjoyment of the game or close them by clicking on the escape button. Either choice does not affect the outcome of the game or contribute to the eventual solving of the mystery.

Once you have completed a hidden object scene, the instructions for the mini-games that you must play are made available to. Hardy boys: The Perfect Crime is one of the more challenging hidden object games out there.

Link for free download The Hardy Boys - The Perfect Crime Game

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