JDA promotes critical thinking through draughts at St Mary school

The Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) is actively promoting strategic thinking among Jamaican youth through the game of draughts. Recently, the association conducted an educational outreach at Jacks River Primary School in St Mary, engaging students in the fundamentals of the game.

JDA president Deputy Superintendent Jermaine Delattibudiere highlighted the game's educational value, stating it teaches children to think before acting, evaluate consequences, and plan effectively. These skills, he explained, are directly transferable to academic performance, leadership, and everyday life. The initiative also encouraged students to balance screen time with mentally stimulating activities.

This engagement is part of the JDA's broader Strategic Games Programme, which aims to integrate draughts and other strategic thinking activities into schools and communities across Jamaica. The program seeks to cultivate cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, and leadership qualities in young people from an early age, aligning with the week's theme of helping children make smart choices for a brighter future.

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Draughts encourages children to slow down, think critically, and make calculated decisions. Every move requires analysis, planning, and an understanding of cause and effect. These are the same skills that help young people succeed in school, avoid negative influences, and become productive members of society.