Building a Better Understanding of DNA Through Play:
Rochester counselor Lindsay Zetzsche has taken the sometimes complex world of genetics and turned it into an engaging, educational card game called Variation.
The game, recently available for purchase at Games by James in the Crossroads Center mall in St. Cloud, allows players of different ages to learn about DNA while having fun.
Zetzsche, who cited a ninth-grade biology class as her initial inspiration for the game’s concept, believes finding creative ways to engage with learning:"I think having games be part of learning makes everything more memorable. Genetics is such a big part of our lives. I wouldlike to inspire more kids to learn about DNA.”
With seven different game variations catering to ages 8 and up, Variation offers diverse experiences for families and educators to explore genetic inheritance. The game, rebūilt from the ground up by Zetzsche, utilizes visually appealing components and simple rules to attract players.
The development of Variation involved extensive testing and feedback from various community members, including local children, a book club for third graders, nodal members Defined by Ms. Zetzsche’s desire to ensure her game resonated with its target audience.
Even members of her own family contributed to the project. Her husband Tim provided the voice-over narration for instructional videos on the game’s website while children Teren and Eli contributed their technical and artistic skills.
"Since we are such a medical community, I do think this will resonate in Rochester," Zetzsche mentioned, recognizing the influence of Mayo Clinic on her local area. "Plus, we probably have more genetic counselors per capita than anywhere else," she quipped.
Zetzsche hopes that by making DNA accessible and enjoyable for children, Variation can spark further curiosity and learning.
