I can’t tell you how many of my “young” friends will hear someone in my family talk about a favorite board game only to say, “I’ve never heard of that!” The first few times this happened, I thought they were joking or that they must have grown up somewhere other than here. But what I’ve come to find out is that many families don’t play board games together often, or ever.
Board games have always been a mainstay in our family. After Sunday lunches at my grandparents’ house, it wasn’t uncommon at all to have a round of Uno or Bingo start up. Games of Scrabble with my mom are favorite memories for many of my cousins and me. At our house, we play a LOT of Yahtzee and Skip Bo. There are also games of Monopoly that occur, but those are the ones I opt out of. Even the younger kids can enjoy a quick game of Hi-Ho Cherry-O or Candy Land.
Playing games of these kinds together brings so many rewards from which I believe families could really benefit. Not only is it an excellent way to sneak in a little simple math or reading practice for the kids, but it also gives us all a time to interact – without cell phones. By putting devices aside, turning off the TV, and gathering around a table to play a game with friends or family, we can laugh together and learn together. It gives us an opportunity to create valuable memories.
Take some time today to think back on your childhood. Did you enjoy board games or card games as a kid? What old favorites could you introduce your children to? Maybe it wasn’t a part of your formative years, but don’t let that stop you from beginning a new tradition now.
Dust off the old Chutes and Ladders or run out to the store to grab a new game. These family moments are priceless; you don’t want to miss this.
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