Playing Games with Your Children: Benefits and Suggestions

Making the most out of the time we spend with our children is a great challenge for us as parents. However, playing games with our kids can be the perfect way to spend quality time as a family.

In this day and age, there’s an increasing risk of losing our connection with those around us due to excessive use of technology. Playing games allows us to interact with one another away from the screen.

Games also serve as a psychological stimulus for children. At the same time, they allow them to recognize and face certain emotions. Since most games require more than one person, they also contribute to interpersonal relations.

What’s more, playing games also improves concentration, tolerance of frustration, deductive logic and patience. Games provide all of these benefits and more, all while having a great time.

Another advantage to playing games with children is that you can enjoy them at any time. Games are good for any time of year and any time of day.

Different types of games to enjoy with children

It’s important to keep your children’s age in mind when deciding on what game to play. There are plenty of games for all ages. Even if you’re dealing with big age differences among siblings, playing games will provide your family with good, healthy fun.

Strategy games

Among the most classic strategy games are chess, checkers and dominos. These games teach children to think and form strategies and procedures in order to reach determined objectives. They stimulate kids to make decisions and encourage their autonomy.

There are also adapted versions of these games for smaller children. For example, you can find dominos with animals instead of dots. These versions are much easier for little ones to understand and enjoy.

Among the list of popular strategy games, you’ll also find those you can play with just a pen and paper, such as tic-tac-toe. These games help children to think quickly and seem to never go out of style. And they’re also a great way to pass the time – for example, when you’re travelling or stuck in a waiting room.

Educational games

Here we’re referring to games specifically designed so that participants learn as they play. The player’s knowledge about a certain subject or subjects increases.

Among the list of educational games is a classic among both children and adults: Scrabble. This is an excellent game to improve spelling and broaden vocabulary. While your family plays, you’ll all discover new words and their meanings.

The game of Risk is an excellent option for increasing your knowledge of history, for example.

There are also games that stimulate a child’s memory and concentration. One well-known example is Simon Says. Puzzles and games like Memory serve a similar purpose. As for jigsaw puzzles, make sure to keep your child’s age and skill level in mind. If the image is too complex or there are too many pieces, your child will likely get overly frustrated.

Games of chance

Sooner or later, all kids learn to play “rock paper scissors.” This game is easy to learn and requires no materials whatsoever and is a great way to kill time anywhere.

Another popular game is Monopoly. Since players throw dice to advance around the board, this is considered a game of chance. However, it’s also a game that requires a certain amount of strategy. What’s more, it’s a great way to practice math and the use of money.

Playing cards is another option that offers a countless variety of games. Depending on the game you choose, your children will boost their math skills, quick thinking and strategic abilities. For younger players, you can opt for playing cards with pictures instead of numbers. Card games are a great option for children and adults of any age.

Video games

There is a wide variety of video games that allow for two or more players. Some involve music, dancing and other options. Look for games that encourage interaction among several family members. Even those who are awaiting their turn can have a great time watching others compete.

While it may seem obvious, we want to stress the importance of avoiding violent or offensive games. At the same time, remember to limit screen time both for you and your children.

Twister

Twister is a game that’s in a class of its own. Rather than playing it on a table, you play it on the floor. The game is a wonderful way to help children boost their psychomotor skills. Whether they play with family or friends, they’re bound to have a blast.

As you can see, there are a million different options to choose from when looking for games to share with your family.

Make time in your busy schedule to sit down and play games with your family. Be it a weekly event, a rainy day activity or a spontaneous after dinner competition, you’ll be creating moments your family will never forget.