At one time, board games were near the top of the list when presenting for children. There were no electronic devices, and not all families could afford a bike. Snakes and Ladders and Monopoly have stood the test of time, and now many others have come to join them. Playing a board game can be exciting for a child, as playing gry 777 is exciting for an adult.
Things to Remember
As well as being entertaining board games can teach children a great deal. Some are educational and can help with math, English, and history, but there are other lessons to learn. Children will learn to take their turn, be patient with others, and lose with grace. The last one may be the hardest one for them to get used to.
Buying the Games
When buying the games, there is a sharp difference between buying a game just for children and buying one you will play as well. It’s much better to educate your child through playing the adult version than you sitting through endless rounds of the junior one. There still has to be some logic when making the selection. How can a child who can’t read or write play any version of Scrabble? You can always modify the rules a little if some areas are beyond them.
When to Play
There is no bad time to play. Suppose there are many other things to do, then you could set aside a night, or an hour or so, a couple of nights. The routine and gap between games will ensure they do not get bored too easily. It is also essential that there is a time limit for the play. Cauldron will always take their turn or lingering over the answer if the game is quiz-based.
The Games
Finally, there is the decision about what games to play.
- Monopoly will be fun and can help teach children about money. The aim is to move their character around the board, buy property, claim, and pay rent while avoiding going to jail. There are now many other variations other than just London.
- Scrabble will help with spelling but could be a bit too much like school. All players have seven tiles with letters and have to make words with them and tiles already used. Maybe it will be best with younger children to allow them more tiles to give them more of a chance.
- Trivial Pursuits – each player moves around the board and answers questions on various subjects. Each correct answer earns them a piece of cheese, and the first to collect all 6 is the winner.
- Outfoxed – a fox has stolen a pie, and it must be caught. Children split into teams and have to uncover suspects or search for clues. The dice help them find the clues, but not all clues are useful.
Providing all the children can accept the rules and either win or lose gracefully, a family can have a lovely night. As they get older, they can even play together, leaving the adults in peace.