APH to Update the "Game of Squares"
Survey Seeks Input for Redesign of Classic Blind Board Game
Dec 16, 2008
The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) is investigating ways to modernize its classic “Game of Squares,” which it has sold for decades as an educational aid that teaches basic game skills to players as young as six.
APH Tactile Graphics Project Leader Karen J. Poppe is seeking input from teachers and parents on possible ways the game might be updated for 21st century players.
APH’s Karen Poppe Discusses Tactile Games for Blind and Visually Impaired Children
How is the Game of Squares played?
The Game of Squares is a two-player game. Players divide “side markers” and textured square markers and place them in a storage area around a 16-square game grid. Players chose whose squares will be represented by the markers’ smooth or rough side. Each player in turn places a plastic side marker on the edge of one of the squares. As play continues, the player who completes a square by placing the fourth side claims that square by placing his or her marker inside it. Completing a square earns an additional turn. The game ends when all the squares have been completed. The player marking the most squares wins.
What is the history behind the game?
The Game of Squares was one of several APH games produced in the mid-70’s and prototyped and tested by APH staff. It is an adaptation of a model submitted by Dale S. Lazar of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Game of Squares, Ten-Spot Game, Take Away, and Baseball Game were approved for production at the same time. The first copy of Game of Squares was sold in 1978. APH is obsoleting Ten Spot Game and Take Away, while the Baseball Game, like Game of Squares, is being modernized for eventual re-introduction.
Why is the game of squares popular among blind students?
Based on recent survey results, some of the advantages to blind and visually impaired students include:
- A great "thinking game”
- Helps develop “strategy and problem solving skills”
- Teaches “taking turns” and “planning ahead”
- Teaches “concepts of orientation”
- Useful for a wide range of ages: elementary grade students and middle school students.
In what ways do you think the games of squares can be updated?
Although early “in the game” (no pun intended) of development, I hope to implement the following changes:
- Enhance its aesthetic appearance
- Employ better color and tactile contrast between the grid and game pieces
- Improve the “side markers” so that they stay in place as the players tactually explore the grid
- Suggest variations to the game beyond just the basic play option
- Increase the size of the grid (and/or give options for various grid sizes).
APH Offers Wide Selection of Tactile Games and Educational Aids
What other popular tactile children’s games does APH sell?
Recent Board Games: Web Chase and Scattered Crowns. APH game accessories include: Score Card Set and Talking GlowDice.
APH is also about to publish the sixth issue of SQUID: Tactile Activities Magazine. Each issue has about 25 activities (some games) that help young students enhance their tactile reading skills within a recreational context.
The APH website has detailed information about each of these games. Contact Karen Poppe (800.223.1839, ext 322) for a copy of the Game of Squares survey.
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