Parents report that bridge promotes skills and social connections in children, suggesting its value as an after-school activity.
Parents find an after-school activity with surprising benefits: The card game bridge In discussions with parents, Bridge: A MindSport for All (BAMSA) inquired about the benefits of the mind sport bridge for young people. The findings position bridge as the ideal sport for less ‘sporty’ children. Parents are frequently on the lookout for the perfect after-school activity: something that keeps children off screens, builds friendships, develops transferable skills, and holds their attention. In new research conducted by Bridge: A MindSport for All (BAMSA) at the University of Stirling, a compelling all-rounder activity for children has emerged: the card game bridge. It offers many of the recognised developmental benefits associated with sport – teamwork and cooperation, emotional resilience, patience and focus – but without a distinct requirement for athleticism.
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Punch et al. (2026) studied this question.
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