Playing monument valley

Art

• The child learned about visual composition and perspective by navigating through the intricate and visually stunning levels of Monument Valley.
• They developed an appreciation for aesthetics and design by observing the beautiful and imaginative architecture and landscapes in the game.
• The child experimented with colors and shapes as they interacted with the various puzzles and elements in the game.
• They practiced their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while manipulating the characters and objects in Monument Valley.

History

• The child gained an understanding of ancient civilizations and architectural wonders by exploring the game's unique and culturally inspired monuments.
• They learned about the significance and symbolism behind the structures they encountered, such as the references to M.C. Escher's artwork.
• The game sparked curiosity about different cultures and historical periods, encouraging the child to further research and learn about the origins of the architectural styles featured in Monument Valley.
• The child developed an awareness of the importance of preserving and appreciating cultural heritage.

Math

• The child practiced spatial reasoning and geometry by solving the puzzles in Monument Valley, which often required them to manipulate objects and navigate through complex mazes.
• They learned about angles, symmetry, and proportion through the game's architectural designs and the need to align structures correctly.
• The child applied logical thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and progress through the levels.
• They practiced counting and number recognition as they collected and interacted with objects throughout the game.

Music

• The child developed an appreciation for ambient music and sound design as they played Monument Valley, which features soothing and atmospheric compositions.
• They learned about the emotional impact that music can have on storytelling and gameplay, as the soundtrack enhances the game's immersive experience.
• The child may have discovered new musical instruments or styles through the game's sound effects and background music, which can inspire further exploration and learning.
• They practiced rhythm and timing as they coordinated their movements with the game's audio cues.

Science

• The child gained an understanding of physics and gravity as they manipulated the game's objects and characters, which often defied conventional rules.
• They learned about optical illusions and perceptual puzzles through the game's use of forced perspective and impossible geometry.
• The child developed critical thinking skills by experimenting and observing cause-and-effect relationships within the game's mechanics.
• They may have developed an interest in architecture and engineering, as the game's puzzles often require creative problem-solving and structural thinking.

Continued development can be fostered by encouraging the child to explore other puzzle games that incorporate different art styles, historical themes, or scientific concepts. Additionally, introducing them to hands-on activities like drawing their own architectural structures or experimenting with optical illusions can further enhance their learning experience.

Book Recommendations

• Escher's Journey: An Illustrated Biography by Doris Schattschneider: This book introduces the work and life of M.C. Escher, the artist whose optical illusions inspired Monument Valley's visual style.
• World Architecture: A Cross-Cultural History by Richard Ingersoll: This book provides an overview of architectural styles from different cultures and time periods, offering further exploration of the historical and cultural elements found in Monument Valley.
• The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin: This mystery-adventure novel follows a young boy who loves puzzles, and it can inspire the child to continue exploring their passion for problem-solving and critical thinking.