Gamified Strategies to Enhance Cognitive Development in Early Childhood Education

<ns5:p>Abstract* Background This study addresses the need to transform traditional teaching methods that still predominate in early childhood education and limit the development of cognitive skills such as attention, concentration, memory, language, and logical thinking. In response to this issue, the study proposes gamification as an active, meaningful, and student-centered pedagogical strategy, aligned with contemporary educational paradigms that emphasize inclusion, the use of ICT, and meaningful learning. Methods A mixed-methods approach was employed, with an applied and explanatory scope, using a quasi-experimental design. Results Five teachers were surveyed, revealing highly positive perceptions of gamification, particularly highlighting its effectiveness in capturing attention, fostering active participation, and promoting meaningful learning. A baseline assessment conducted with 25 children identified the need to primarily strengthen attention and logical thinking. Subsequently, gamified activities were designed and implemented to develop children’s cognitive skills. Conclusions Statistical analysis using the Mann Whitney Wilcoxon test showed significant differences between the control and experimental groups across all cognitive variables, particularly in attention (difference of 1.7 points) and logical thinking (1.75 points). These findings confirm that gamification significantly contributes to children’s cognitive development, representing an innovative and effective alternative to traditional teaching methods.</ns5:p>