The boys and I are back to playing minecraft after another hiatus. This recent return features a change in play style. Once again we have a major goal, which is to construct a massive castle with at least a 200 block radius. The compromise is a window of time early in the game where we were allowed to use creative mode to procure resources. Consider it ‘tutoring’ or a jumpstart for kids who don’t always have the patience to get through the initial toughness of developing resources on hard mode. This is about zone of proximal development; finding the sweet spot where kids are challenged and learning without feeling overwhelmed. I think the game helps me understand them more, because it creates opportunities to see the three create and collaborate in ways that force them to take advantage of their particular skill sets. The baby is too young to fully grasp the intricacies and dullness of mining for elements to build the walls, but he will hunt for food and protect build sites and dig new tunnels and do some wicked interior decorating. He learns from all of this and grows his patience as he discovers the relevancy of putting in the necessary time to do a job well.
This isn’t exactly the best training for a kid but it is a start. I believe in the philosophy of 10,000 hours to expertise. While I won’t be spending 10k on minecraft, I do sense that what I learn about them through the game will help me design a strategy for the 10,000 hour commitment they do need to make.