04/25/2025
Why Playing Games at the End of Class is Serious Business (Backed by Science)!
Some critics might argue that end of class games are âjust fluffâ or a waste of valuable training time.
Hereâs the truth: when you understand child development and brain science, games are a powerful tool.
And at SKILLZ, our games arenât just for funâtheyâre backed by science and designed to support Brain SKILLZ development in every student.
Letâs break down why ending class with a fun game is not just effectiveâbut essential:
Boosts Brain Chemistry for Learning
Games release D.O.S.E. chemicalsâDopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphinsâwhich support motivation, emotional regulation, and connection. A student who leaves smiling is a student who wants to come back.
Regulates the Nervous System
Kids canât learn in a stressed state. Games help reset the nervous system, easing kids out of âfight or flightâ mode so they leave class calm and balanced.
Builds Social & Emotional Skills
Games help students practice patience, teamwork, emotional control, and moreâskills theyâll use on the mats and in life.
Enhances Retention
The brain remembers whatâs connected to emotion and novelty. A fun class ending increases the chances your students will remember and apply what they learned.
Creates Positive Associations
Thanks to the âpeak-end ruleâ in psychology, how an experience ends plays a huge role in how itâs remembered. Ending class on a high note = eager students returning next time with confidence.
So no, we donât play games to distract.
We play to teach better.