After School Program
Benefits to Students and Schools
Academic Enrichment: Studies show that learning bridge can improve a child's ability to perform better on standardized testing. According to a study from Carlinville, Illinois, middle-school children who learned bridge had test scores on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills that were 10-35% higher on the various subtests than their non-bridge playing peers. Carlinville, Ill. test score study.
Mathematical Aspects of Bridge
Social: Bridge offers the opportunity to meet, talk, and play in a safe, controlled environment. As a partnership game, bridge teaches communication skills, teamwork, cooperation and tolerance.
Reasoning and Logic: Bridge requires you to analyze information, make a plan, and then adjust that plan as more information is made available.
Competition: Bridge students can go on to participate in Youth Bridge competitions locally, regionally, and internationally, with opportunities to win paid trips and even scholarships for some players. Since no one makes a correct decision or play every time, the game teaches children sportsmanship: how to be good winners and good losers.
Fun for All: The game gives young people a chance to spend time with old friends and make new ones. These friendships may transcend age, geography, and social situations.
7 Reasons to Teach Your Kids Bridge (Huffington Post)
Program Overview
The School Bridge Lesson Program offered by SiVY Bridge is a well-organized and proven curriculum. It is taught by trained volunteers who are both excellent bridge players and educators.
The initial instruction consists of approximately sixteen lessons/practice sessions of about 90 minutes each. Note: there is a lot of flexibility built in so that this can be tailored to fit the individual school’s after school program design. Students will receive a free bound textbook with a fun quiz at the end of each chapter. Teachers will use a manual that coincides with the text book along with special cards organized to help reinforce the lessons. At the end of the program, the students will compete in a tournament for a chance to win a trophy. All participants will also receive a completion certificate.
For students who wish to continue to play after the initial instruction, more advanced lessons will be made available through SiVY Bridge. Additionally, websites and online programs to continue their learning will be provided. Some youth bridge players go on to participate in regional, national, and even international tournaments.
There is no charge to either students or schools who offer this program.
Do you know a school or club that might want to offer our program? Are you an after school program administrator? 