Whether in bustling city squares or quiet village homes, domino reaches across the world as a symbol of shared humanity. The simple game is an exercise in patience, strategy, and physics; but, most importantly, it fosters the joy of connection and friendship.
A domino is a rectangular tile with two matching ends and a value displayed on either end, usually in the form of spots or pips. The most common variant of the game uses 28 tiles, with seven doubles (same number on both sides, from double-blank to double six) and 21 singles (different numbers on both ends or a number and a blank). Some sets are made from more durable materials such as bone, silver lip oyster shell, mother-of-pearl, ivory or a dark hardwood such as ebony; and have a heavier feel than those made from polymer.
To score points, a player places a domino on a line of play that is already in place – the adjacent sides of the two matching ends must be touching if the domino is a double. Then, other players place their own dominoes on the same line of play, forming chains that develop into snake-lines as they go along. If the first domino in a line is a double, it can be played with a tile placed perpendicular to it, or in the direction of its middle – but any other piece can only be played onto a double if it has two matching sides that are touching.
Once the lines of play have been established, each player scores based on the dots on their exposed ends. If the open ends total any multiple of five, the player wins a hand and adds to their score based on the numbers remaining in their opponents’ unplayed hands. This score is called “dominating.”
In addition to being a fun family activity, domino can help children learn about a variety of topics. For example, by placing the correct domino tiles next to each other, children can practice their spatial awareness and color recognition skills. And by completing exercises, like jumping jacks or leg kicks, to the number of times indicated on a particular domino, they can work on their motor skills and endurance.