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Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for Kids:How to Stay Sharp, Have Fun, Avoid Bullies, and Be the Creative Ruler of Your Universe
In Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for Kids, Adam Clarke (aka Wizard Keen) and Victoria Bennett offer projects and gameplay that will guide you to make great choices as a player and a person.
Minecraft is an amazing game that stimulates your creativity as you build whatever you can imagine, but it’s also great for learning about how to be a good citizen and mining positive connections with other players—in-game, elsewhere online, and in real life.
With this book, you’ll learn about:
The popular Lab for Kids series features a growing list of books that share hands-on activities and projects on a wide host of topics, including art, astronomy, clay, geology, math, and even how to create your own circus—all authored by established experts in their fields. Each lab contains a complete materials list, clear step-by-step photographs of the process, as well as finished samples. The labs can be used as singular projects or as part of a yearlong curriculum of experiential learning. The activities are open-ended, designed to be explored over and over, often with different results. Geared toward being taught or guided by adults, they are enriching for a range of ages and skill levels. Gain firsthand knowledge on your favorite topic with Lab for Kids.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2019
10 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 1, 2019
I have to say, this book is more than I was expecting. I was anticipating a few crafts and stories, with the meat of the book being anything and everything Minecraft fanservice. I was wrong.
The care that has gone into this book is astonishing -- this is not your typical "unofficial" book created just to grab the attention of anyone who likes Minecraft. With projects like "Make a Minecraft Empathy Map," Positive Poems," and "Better Together," it is clear the authors wanted kids, teachers, and parents alike to learn together.
Minecraft Life Hacks Lab covers everything from emotional empathy, communication skills, problem-solving, and self-confidence to self-control, how to lead, how to listen, and how to respect. This compilation of skills and projects together helps kids learn these incredibly important life skills and how to apply them. The book is split about half physical projects and half Minecraft projects, which require access to a computer and the game Minecraft to do.
I can easily see how teachers and parents would be able to use all or some of these projects in the classroom or home, or adapt them as needed to teach kids how to deal with current or future situations, and the care with which these topics are handled is amazing.
The way the book starts with skills and then progresses into how to apply them gives the projects a two-fold experience, and one that I imagine parents and kids would enjoy doing together. Going so far as to teach kids how to research, create a plan, and execute their ideas in a fun and active way, this book is bound to have lessons that kids of all ages can take something from. The inclusion of caring for the planet and understanding different cultures was especially heart-warming to see. Projects are also given an estimated time and materials list, so you know right away if you have the time and necessary pieces to start.
I also appreciate that a book based on a video/computer game has so many hands-on, physical activities to do. The combination of using the computer to build worlds and pen and paper to sketch them brings a nice balance to a potentially rather sedentary experience. I would even say folks who aren't interested in or don't have Minecraft would still get something out of the book -- many projects have a section where Minecraft is used to complete a project, but the sketching and planning parts, as well as many of the skills and "life hacks" don't need Minecraft to be successful.
My only complaint with the book is a small one (literally) -- the small font. With as much white space as each page has, it seems like the publisher could have filled it just a little more with larger font, making it easier for both kids and adults to read.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of the book at no cost by the publisher for review purposes, but all statements and sentiments are my own.
The care that has gone into this book is astonishing -- this is not your typical "unofficial" book created just to grab the attention of anyone who likes Minecraft. With projects like "Make a Minecraft Empathy Map," Positive Poems," and "Better Together," it is clear the authors wanted kids, teachers, and parents alike to learn together.
Minecraft Life Hacks Lab covers everything from emotional empathy, communication skills, problem-solving, and self-confidence to self-control, how to lead, how to listen, and how to respect. This compilation of skills and projects together helps kids learn these incredibly important life skills and how to apply them. The book is split about half physical projects and half Minecraft projects, which require access to a computer and the game Minecraft to do.
I can easily see how teachers and parents would be able to use all or some of these projects in the classroom or home, or adapt them as needed to teach kids how to deal with current or future situations, and the care with which these topics are handled is amazing.
The way the book starts with skills and then progresses into how to apply them gives the projects a two-fold experience, and one that I imagine parents and kids would enjoy doing together. Going so far as to teach kids how to research, create a plan, and execute their ideas in a fun and active way, this book is bound to have lessons that kids of all ages can take something from. The inclusion of caring for the planet and understanding different cultures was especially heart-warming to see. Projects are also given an estimated time and materials list, so you know right away if you have the time and necessary pieces to start.
I also appreciate that a book based on a video/computer game has so many hands-on, physical activities to do. The combination of using the computer to build worlds and pen and paper to sketch them brings a nice balance to a potentially rather sedentary experience. I would even say folks who aren't interested in or don't have Minecraft would still get something out of the book -- many projects have a section where Minecraft is used to complete a project, but the sketching and planning parts, as well as many of the skills and "life hacks" don't need Minecraft to be successful.
My only complaint with the book is a small one (literally) -- the small font. With as much white space as each page has, it seems like the publisher could have filled it just a little more with larger font, making it easier for both kids and adults to read.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of the book at no cost by the publisher for review purposes, but all statements and sentiments are my own.
July 27, 2019
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for Kids is book 22 (of 24 currently) in the Lab for Kids series. Released 2nd July 2019 by Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 144 pages and available in a flexibound workbook and ebook formats. Aimed at middle grade readers and their adults (parents, guardians, school resource personnel/teachers etc), it uses analogies from Minecraft to roleplay real life situations and to model positive solutions.
Despite being a 'gaming' book, this little lab book includes some really good introductions and exercises for very important life skills such as good communication, empathy, cooperation, problem solving, leadership, self confidence building, and many more. Most of the units include sidebars with new vocabulary or definitions. The information is presented in a positive manner and is never strident or intimidating (or preachy). There are 24 lab units included in the book as well as a comprehensive links and resources list for further exploration. The book also includes a simple cross referenced index.
This is a fun and worthwhile book. It would make a great classroom library book, resource book, homeschool resource book, or support text for a module on social studies subjects like relationships, bullying, social interaction, etc for kids 7-10(+). There's also a wide range of activities and most of the experiments use easily sourced materials. The photography is appealing and many of the photos use the familiar pixelated Minecraft graphics.
Five stars
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for Kids is book 22 (of 24 currently) in the Lab for Kids series. Released 2nd July 2019 by Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 144 pages and available in a flexibound workbook and ebook formats. Aimed at middle grade readers and their adults (parents, guardians, school resource personnel/teachers etc), it uses analogies from Minecraft to roleplay real life situations and to model positive solutions.
Despite being a 'gaming' book, this little lab book includes some really good introductions and exercises for very important life skills such as good communication, empathy, cooperation, problem solving, leadership, self confidence building, and many more. Most of the units include sidebars with new vocabulary or definitions. The information is presented in a positive manner and is never strident or intimidating (or preachy). There are 24 lab units included in the book as well as a comprehensive links and resources list for further exploration. The book also includes a simple cross referenced index.
This is a fun and worthwhile book. It would make a great classroom library book, resource book, homeschool resource book, or support text for a module on social studies subjects like relationships, bullying, social interaction, etc for kids 7-10(+). There's also a wide range of activities and most of the experiments use easily sourced materials. The photography is appealing and many of the photos use the familiar pixelated Minecraft graphics.
Five stars
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 13, 2019
It is wonderful to find a book that delivers on its promises. We found Adam Clarke and Victoria Bennett’s Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for kids delivered above and beyond what was promised.
We acquired this book for our niece and nephew hoping for real-life applications using the tools and skills they had garnered from playing Minecraft. We hoped that their screen time with Minecraft could be utilized as a keen time in real life. This book accomplished that goal by building the kids self-confidence in utilizing the skills they have attained from Minecraft, of being able to synthesize information and knowledge to achieve a solution and apply it in both real life and online in collaborating and creating.
This book is very inspiring as well as informative. We especially valued how it empowered the kids to “be the change” they want to see in the world they want to create. The life hacks help to further develop positive characteristics in the kids and the projects allow the kids to implement them in Minecraft and their community.
The included imagery truly enhances the message of the book and the activities are incredible. Both of these helped to keep the kids engaged and activated throughout the entire book.
The thing we liked most about the book is that it is evident that the authors want to inspire the kids to create their world as a place where everyone can co-create and coexist culturally and creatively. They achieved their intended mission and we have seen the evidence of their inspiration in our niece and nephew since their encounter with the book. Our family highly recommends this book!
We acquired this book for our niece and nephew hoping for real-life applications using the tools and skills they had garnered from playing Minecraft. We hoped that their screen time with Minecraft could be utilized as a keen time in real life. This book accomplished that goal by building the kids self-confidence in utilizing the skills they have attained from Minecraft, of being able to synthesize information and knowledge to achieve a solution and apply it in both real life and online in collaborating and creating.
This book is very inspiring as well as informative. We especially valued how it empowered the kids to “be the change” they want to see in the world they want to create. The life hacks help to further develop positive characteristics in the kids and the projects allow the kids to implement them in Minecraft and their community.
The included imagery truly enhances the message of the book and the activities are incredible. Both of these helped to keep the kids engaged and activated throughout the entire book.
The thing we liked most about the book is that it is evident that the authors want to inspire the kids to create their world as a place where everyone can co-create and coexist culturally and creatively. They achieved their intended mission and we have seen the evidence of their inspiration in our niece and nephew since their encounter with the book. Our family highly recommends this book!
July 9, 2019
As a parent and teacher this book is godsend. Having had Minecraft dominating our lives in the corner of a room, screen flashing and confusing to the adult parent/teacher brain, this book has helped me see the range of exciting, creative opportunities it opens up to young people.
The book is well set out, with clear objectives highlighted in each section. It’s reassuring to know the benefits of the children’s ‘obsession’, e.g. developing their communication skills, helping promote emotional empathy, self confidence and self control, etc.
What seems like a minefield of gobbledegook is broken down into manageable chunks with useful information like how long an activity might take, what other resources might be required, etc.
It’s strap line of ‘being the creative ruler of your Universe’ is appropriate allowing the player, their caregivers and educators to have more control over something that could seem a bit chaotic. Part 2, encouraging the minecrafter to be active it making changes to their lives, community and the wider world further empowers the player in a positive way.
Well done to all involved in producing this fab book.
The book is well set out, with clear objectives highlighted in each section. It’s reassuring to know the benefits of the children’s ‘obsession’, e.g. developing their communication skills, helping promote emotional empathy, self confidence and self control, etc.
What seems like a minefield of gobbledegook is broken down into manageable chunks with useful information like how long an activity might take, what other resources might be required, etc.
It’s strap line of ‘being the creative ruler of your Universe’ is appropriate allowing the player, their caregivers and educators to have more control over something that could seem a bit chaotic. Part 2, encouraging the minecrafter to be active it making changes to their lives, community and the wider world further empowers the player in a positive way.
Well done to all involved in producing this fab book.
August 2, 2019
For kids who enjoy Minecraft, this is a book that encourages prior thought and craft before diving into the game itself.
This book is split into two sections: Acquiring skills and Applying skills to projects, with twelve ideas for the children to follow, from communication skills, problem solving to engaging with your community or supporting a cause. The ideas are split into offline crafts and then applying the discoveries to your online Minecraft worlds.
It might suit some kids who are patient enough to try stuff offline first, but I'm not sure about mine, though getting them to work together would be nice once in a while! I did like the idea of building blocks of connections which seems a bit like a game of charades using Minecraft blocks, so will suggest the kids try that this week.
It's also mainly aimed at those using a PC as the keystrokes given are for that only, though I'm sure some of it can be translated into Xbox use.
I received this book from Netgalley in return for a honest review.
This book is split into two sections: Acquiring skills and Applying skills to projects, with twelve ideas for the children to follow, from communication skills, problem solving to engaging with your community or supporting a cause. The ideas are split into offline crafts and then applying the discoveries to your online Minecraft worlds.
It might suit some kids who are patient enough to try stuff offline first, but I'm not sure about mine, though getting them to work together would be nice once in a while! I did like the idea of building blocks of connections which seems a bit like a game of charades using Minecraft blocks, so will suggest the kids try that this week.
It's also mainly aimed at those using a PC as the keystrokes given are for that only, though I'm sure some of it can be translated into Xbox use.
I received this book from Netgalley in return for a honest review.
July 7, 2019
I should mention that I’ve known Vik Bennet and Adam Clarke for some seven years. As a non gaming dad I’ve struggled with bringing up a small boy who’s really into Minecraft and I’ve experienced all the usual parental anxieties. But they showed me how Minecraft works, that it’s so much more than just a game and how to allow a child the space and time to develop their own ideas, creativity and builds. It’s liberated both of us.
This book is all of the stuff we’ve learned off Vik and Adam and then they’ve taken it to a whole different level. They deal with some of the really difficult issues of multi player gaming like griefing, which is a continual worry for parents of young kids, and the labs introduce ideas that are as much about emotional development as they are about gaming development. I’m looking at the book as a parent and even though it’s aimed at kids, there’s so much content and detail it works for kids and parents alike or ideally, together.
This book is all of the stuff we’ve learned off Vik and Adam and then they’ve taken it to a whole different level. They deal with some of the really difficult issues of multi player gaming like griefing, which is a continual worry for parents of young kids, and the labs introduce ideas that are as much about emotional development as they are about gaming development. I’m looking at the book as a parent and even though it’s aimed at kids, there’s so much content and detail it works for kids and parents alike or ideally, together.
June 24, 2019
Simply superb.
Adam and Victoria provide a literary piece that is overflowing with vibrant imagery, light-hearted information, and engaging activities.
This book does a brilliant job of encouraging critical-thinking, communication, and creativity, in a way which should prove as entertaining to children as much as it'll be insightful to parents and/or educators who decide to read it for themselves.
In my opinion, one of the book's greatest strengths is the seamless application of functional skills to Minecraft's sandbox world of infinite possibility, in captivating tasks meant to refine the reader's prowess in a variety of areas.
If I was only allowed to choose a single reason to purchase this product, it would be for the surprisingly wide-array of topics and subjects it manages to cover all whilst working with a game as accessible as Minecraft.
Would recommend.
Adam and Victoria provide a literary piece that is overflowing with vibrant imagery, light-hearted information, and engaging activities.
This book does a brilliant job of encouraging critical-thinking, communication, and creativity, in a way which should prove as entertaining to children as much as it'll be insightful to parents and/or educators who decide to read it for themselves.
In my opinion, one of the book's greatest strengths is the seamless application of functional skills to Minecraft's sandbox world of infinite possibility, in captivating tasks meant to refine the reader's prowess in a variety of areas.
If I was only allowed to choose a single reason to purchase this product, it would be for the surprisingly wide-array of topics and subjects it manages to cover all whilst working with a game as accessible as Minecraft.
Would recommend.
January 20, 2021
This book has a lot of awesome content! While it's marketed as "for kids" and the labs certainly are, this book is best utilized by an adult providing lessons alongside the labs for a child or group of kids. Some of the labs include creating visual Minecraft builds to promote a cause; interacting with parents, grandparents, or others in different generations; and encouraging social-emotional growth through the game. Some of the labs are completely removed from Minecraft itself and can be run without access to the game, but typically there is a lab or two after using the previous content to further an idea. I'm very excited to use this for library programming in the future once Minecraft Club and our local server are live. I might need to buy a copy for myself so I can have it close at hand while others can make use of the book as well!
June 22, 2019
A wonderful activity book, with a whole range of ideas for thinking about yourself and how you want to be, in a safe environment. As an adult (parent or educator) whether you're new to minecraft or have played for a while, you can use this book to help your children explore themes such as: thinking about cultural and generational differences, working in a community and self confidence. Children will be able to explore these themes through fun activities in a play environment.
Particularly enjoyed the mix of real world and game world activities.
A huge amount of content covering so many topics, it will be a go to book for a long while.
Teen review: good minecraft tips as well as good advice in general, probably for 7 to 12 year old, but I enjoyed it too.
Particularly enjoyed the mix of real world and game world activities.
A huge amount of content covering so many topics, it will be a go to book for a long while.
Teen review: good minecraft tips as well as good advice in general, probably for 7 to 12 year old, but I enjoyed it too.
July 30, 2019
This book was far beyond what I expected! It has helped me reinforce important life skills with my Minecraft fanatic daughter. Together, we have worked through the Communication and Empathy Labs and look forward to the other projects the book has to offer.
I love that the book explains how to gather our thoughts by noodling, how to conduct research, and how to be an active listener.
I love that the book explains how to gather our thoughts by noodling, how to conduct research, and how to be an active listener.
June 27, 2019
This book wasn't quite what I thought it was going to be but it looks to be pretty good! There are a lot of ways that tie Minecraft to life skills/social skills. My child is excited to dive into some of the projects mentioned!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews