Why teach game design?

10 reasons to introduce game design into your homeschool program.

We love homeschooling. We really do. I am a homeschool Mum of four. With all the kids’ different interests and talents, we get to do some pretty cool stuff. One of the coolest subjects we have incorporated into our homeschool program is game design and development. You have probably heard of gameschooling, a learning style that uses table top games, video games and apps to learn things in an engaging way. Well our family are learning the other side, how to design and build games, and it’s so much fun.

10 important skills game design teaches kids:

Game design and development can teach kids a wide range of valuable skills beyond just creating games. Here are some of the key lessons:

1. Creativity: Game design encourages kids to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas for gameplay, characters, and stories.

2. Problem-solving: Designing and developing games often involves overcoming various challenges, such as programming bugs, level design puzzles, and balancing game mechanics, which help kids develop their problem-solving skills.

3. Critical thinking: Game design requires critical thinking skills to analyse game mechanics, player feedback, and game balance to create an engaging experience.

4. Collaboration: Many games are developed by teams, so kids learn how to work effectively with others, communicate their ideas, and compromise to achieve a common goal.

5. Programming and technology: Game development introduces kids to programming languages, software tools, and technologies used in creating games, which can lay the foundation for future STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning.

6. Art and design: Game design involves creating artwork, animations, sound effects, and music, allowing kids to explore their artistic talents and develop skills in digital art and design.

7. Project management: Developing a game requires planning, organisation, and time management skills to meet deadlines and milestones, teaching kids important project management skills that are applicable in various contexts.

8. Persistence and resilience: Game development can be challenging, and kids learn the value of persistence and resilience as they encounter obstacles and setbacks along the way.

9. User experience (UX) design: Understanding player behaviour and designing intuitive user interfaces are essential aspects of game design, teaching kids principles of UX design that are applicable in designing other digital products and services.

10. Entrepreneurship: For kids interested in pursuing game development as a career, designing and releasing their own games can teach them about entrepreneurship, marketing, and business management.

Overall, game design and development provide a fun and engaging way for kids to develop a diverse set of skills that are valuable both in and out of the gaming industry.

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Homeschoolers win national game design prize.

My children made their own game studio called Conglomerate Squad. They work with a friend to make games for the Australian STEM Video Game Challenge. Their games Satellite Jump and Battle of Batone are national winners.

Launching our Game Design for Beginners Masterclass

Scan the QR code to book your spot.

We're thrilled to announce our Game Design for Beginners Masterclass:

• Our masterclass is designed to provide practical tips and insights from our own experience.

• We'll share our story, offer guidance on getting started at any age and host a Q&A.

• We will talk about what makes a good game, discuss the different design roles, and where to find resources.

So join us at the end of the month to discover why game design is more than just a hobby—it's a pathway to creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. We invite students and parents to attend. One ticket for the whole family/household.

Bookings can be made here or scan QR code. Bookings close Sunday 28 April at 11:59 pm.

If you wish to join the waitlist for future classes fill out the Google Form to stay notified.

See you at the masterclass!

Watch our 2023 winning game Battle of Batone trailer.