Playing board games for just a few minutes can deliver lasting benefits for brain development in children, according to a new study.

Researchers say simple number-based games may play a key role in strengthening early learning skills that shape future academic success.

The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Oregon in the United States. It reviewed 18 previous studies that examined the relationship between board games and early math skills in children from preschool to second grade.

The review focused on how structured board games influence children’s understanding of numbers at an early age.

Significant improvement in number skills

The findings showed that children who played number-based board games, where pieces move along a straight numerical path, demonstrated a 76 per cent improvement in number-related skills.

Researchers noted that such games help children grasp number order, counting, and basic numerical concepts, which are essential building blocks for learning mathematics.

Why early math skills matter

Jenna Nelson, one of the study’s authors, said the researchers chose this topic because early math skills are closely linked to later success in school.

She explained that number board games are especially effective because they are simple to play, easily available, and affordable, making them accessible learning tools for both families and schools.