Playing games as a family can be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Not only does it provide a great opportunity for bonding and quality time, but it can also have numerous benefits for children and parents.
The thought of family game time can sometimes feel exhausting especially if you have kids who are competitive or cry when they lose. And we think it’s worth it to push through that. Here are some of the key benefits of playing games as a family and then we’ll tell you some of our favorite family games for kids 12 and under.
Promotes family bonding and quality time
One of the most significant benefits of playing games as a family is the opportunity it provides for bonding and quality time. In our fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find time to connect with our loved ones. However, playing games together can create a shared experience that can help bring families closer together. It provides an opportunity for laughter, conversation, and collaboration – all of which are essential ingredients for building strong family relationships.
Some of our favorite games to play as a family:
Reign of Dragoness (Use the code: Parenting for 15% off)
The Bears and the Bees (Use the code: Parenting for 15% off)
Skull King (Use the code: Parenting for 15% off)
Encourages teamwork and cooperation
Playing games as a family can also encourage teamwork and cooperation. Many games require players to work together to achieve a common goal or to compete against other teams. This can help children develop important skills such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration, which are essential for success in school and in the workplace.
Some of our favorite team games to play:
Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag (click HERE for more night games for kids)
Provides opportunities for learning
Games can also be a great way to provide opportunities for learning. Many games involve strategy, critical thinking, and decision-making, which can help children develop these skills in a fun and engaging way. Additionally, games can also help children learn about new topics and concepts, such as geography, history, and science.
Some of our favorite learning and strategy games:
Promotes social skills
Playing games as a family can also promote social skills such as communication, turn-taking, and sportsmanship. Children learn how to interact with others in a friendly and respectful way (which will probably take some time). Games can also help children develop empathy and understanding for others, which can be valuable in building healthy relationships.
Some of our favorite games that encourage sportsmanship:
Princess Enchanted Cupcake Party
Spot It and Spot It Harry Potter
Provides a break from screens
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to spend too much time in front of screens. Playing games as a family can provide a much-needed break from technology and allow children (and adults) to engage in a more active and social activity. If you’re looking for other activities to get your kids away from screens, we have lists of both indoor and outdoor screen free activities.
So, next time you’re looking for a fun and engaging activity to do with your family, consider pulling out a board game or card game and see what benefits you can reap from playing together!
What are your favorite family games?