B-I-N-G-O!

I've been playing a lot of BINGO with the kids I'm seeing for OT in this past week.  It is such a great game where we can work on so many goals simultaneously.  I also like using the same game for a number of children in the same week as it means I don't need to empty out my therapy bag completely each time I see a new child {any other OTs do this?}.

I have created a simple FREE printable BINGO game which you can download from the  YKOT shop.  This includes 6 "boards" and 1 call sheet.  I printed the "boards" onto different coloured paper which just makes it more interesting when playing with multiple children.  I then laminated all the sheets for durability. 

You will need to supply your own numbers and counters.  I wrote our numbers on small wooden blocks purchased from a discount variety shop {or was it Spotlight - sorry can't remember which} and use novelty buttons {which I did purchase from Spotlight} as the counters.  I keep the whole thing in a cotton zippered bag which is also used to keep the numbers for calling out.

Here is why I love BINGO:
* It is fun! There is an element or surprise as you don't know which numbers will be selected {or at least I don't make it obvious when I'm picking the numbers to move the game along}.
* Number recognition - Recognising and naming the numbers called. We can also discuss the number before and the number after and other number patterns.
* Visual scanning - Looking and scanning an individual board for a matching number or the "caller" scanning the hundred board to match the number.
* Fine motor skills - I use small blocks and novelty buttons, encouraging a pincer grasp.
* End point - The game is finished when one player has a row {horizontal or vertical) of numbers covered.  The star in the middle of the board is a "wild" which can be any number.  Having an end point is important for kids who benefit from clear boundaries and structured play.
* Handwriting - I often ask the kids I see to write down their "winning numbers" so we also include a handwriting component to their game.
 * Social skills - Children may take turns to be the "caller".  Some children have difficulty "losing" and "waiting for their numbers to be called".  
* Individual or Group - You can play this with one child or a whole classroom! You may need to create a few more boards for a classroom or you may have a group of children collectively doing one board.
* Pencil control - Instead of using counters {or buttons} you could use a dry-erase marker and ask children to draw a cross over the number called.  Make sure you laminate your boards first so they can then be wiped clean and used again!

Download your FREE PRINTABLE BINGO here!


Have you played BINGO with your kids?

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