Trading card games can aid cognitive and social development, according to information released by Wizards of the Coast.  The release quotes Dr. Helen Boehm, psychologist and author of Fearless Parenting for the New Millenium and The Official Guide to the Right Toys, who describes how the interactive, constructive play of trading card games can help build relationships and live-long strategic thinking skills.   

'Trading card games can help children develop important organizational and reasoning strategies,' Boehm said.  'In addition to providing a fundamental approach to divergent thinking and socialization, these interactive trading card games encourage creative planning and problem-solving skills.' 

Boehm also points out the use of trading card games to teach good sportsmanship and fair play.