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board game with dice and figures
Author: Karen Wilson, SEND Specialist
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Approximate reading time: 1 minute

Games are one of the most effective ways to support both SEND and EAL learners because they reduce anxiety, increase engagement, and make language learning fun! Structured games also offer additional benefits for SEND learners by encouraging attention, turn-taking, and understanding routines. Visual rules, simple instructions, and predictable formats also help reduce cognitive load whilst keeping learning active and inclusive.

Tip or Idea: Games don’t have to just be played at desks. Think about ways to allow learners to be active, too! Try using outdoor areas like the school field; use a ball to throw and catch when taking turns speaking; or try placing words and picture cards around the room for learners to find and match.

Learning Village resource: Games are not just for younger learners. Our resource Group Games using Multiple Learning Styles includes fun ideas such as Agent ALFA. In this game, learners work in teams to solve a mystery by collecting and decoding clues that help them identify the undercover double agent (Agent ALFA).

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