Wacky Wednesday # 27: Checkers

The game of Checkers has some competition these days. That thing you’re glued to right this minute—the computer—has changed how people play games. (Well, it’s changed a lot of things, but today we’re talking about leisure activities.) I suspect that Checkers has taken a hit in popularity since the arrival of Candy Crush, Minecraft and a zillion other games played on phones, tvs and computers. Poor Checkers. Let’s get back to basics today and pay a little attention to a game that requires no software, no electricity, and no screen. All it takes is a flat surface and two players. Let’s get our Checkers on!
 

 

Here’s the close-up of my hat:

Let me clarify my comment about technology. I like using machines as much as the next person, and technology has its place. If not for machines, this blog would have to be delivered to you by carrier pigeon. But there’s something charming about settling down with a board game, or drawing a giant hopscotch on the sidewalk. Monopoly. Hula hoops. Activities that don’t involve machines. Back to basics. Today’s Checkers costume reconnects me with games from my childhood.

Would you like to know how I made this outfit? I cut up some cardboard boxes to make my game board. I painted the board red, then cut black squares out of construction paper. The round game pieces are made from cardboard, too. I attached flat strips of magnets to the back of them (as well as to the board) so that the pieces could move. (However, once I started walking, some of the pieces would not stay put, so I hot glued a number of them to the board. I was a little disappointed that I would not be able to get people to actually play with this set, but it was a bigger priority to have my costume stay put. A word about the strips of magnets I tried to use. For another purpose they would be great. I like that these strips are so lightweight, unlike regular magnets. I like that you can cut as big or as little of a piece as you need. The strip was only $3 after using the coupon at my local craft store.) You can see how thin this strip of magnet is:

 

My hat is made of oversized checkers pieces (made from paper plates) because a fun hat always adds a lot. Earrings? Yes, I made them from cardboard, as well.

 

In truth, it’s been years since I’ve played Checkers. We have a set here at home. And of course, now I have a wearable set. But why stop here? Maybe this could start a whole new wave of games you can wear. Anyone with me?!

Thanks for taking a trip down memory lane with me. I liked reconnecting with a game I played as a child. As I was cutting cardboard and pondering this board game, I realized that Checkers teaches kids to plan ahead a few moves. This game teaches strategy. It teaches turn-taking. This activity isn’t just fun—it has lessons hidden in it too. (Shhh, don’t tell the kids).

Now, enough of this chitter-chatter. Back to our Checkers game. It’s your move.

 

 

 

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