Always 10

Card games is a source of entertainment, social interaction and educational benefits for children, even from a very early age. The bright colours, shapes and pretty designs found on most playing cards help stimulate the child’s recognition of letters, symbols and numbers.

Always 10 is one such game created by two Singaporean teachers to train young mind in quick, mental calculations and quick responses. Comprising a deck of 54 number cards, it is simple to play and guaranteed to appeal to children from 5 and up. This is a versatile game and can be played in many ways. This booklet offers instructions for play for some of these ways, along with a suggested age range. However, these are just guidelines. Children are individuals, and readiness to learn a particular game will vary from child to child. The booklet includes instructions on how to play;

1. Simply Matching
2. Face 5
3. Remember Me
4. Begin with 4
5. Route 31
6. Middle of 9
7. Operation 24
8. Maximum and Minimum

These games are easily taught by a guided demonstration. Or a child can be helped to play the first few rounds with cards exposed while the card play is explained as the game progresses. Alternatively, children can watch a few games being played before actually participating.

Once you are familiar with some of these games, you may even come up with your own by improvising the rules and methods of play.

Skills Development:
All the games have been designed to enhance mental calculation and sharpen thinking skills in children. They also teach the concept of how different numbers can add up to 10. In addition, the games help increase their attention span while instilling visual alertness and quick responses.