Great Benefits From a Family Game Night

In the age of smartphones, Netflix and busy lives in general, family time often gets neglected for other things. However, spending quality time together is important for the strength of your family. One great way to incorporate family time into your busy life is to plan and schedule a family game night. Get the kids involved and pick some games that are fun for all ages, set down the electronics, set out some snacks and enjoy some time together. Here are some great benefits you will enjoy by making time for family game night.

            Affordable family fun

            Not only is game night a great way to bond as a family, but it is much more affordable than other family outings, such as going to the movies or visiting local attractions like the zoo. These activities often cost $10 or more per person, not including food and drinks. Game night is a frugal and fun way to enjoy family time because a one-time purchase of a new game costing between $20 and $50 can be enjoyed repeatedly for years to come.

            Conversation starter

            Many parents struggle with getting conversation started with their kids, especially teens. Conversation flows more easily as you play games together. Games can create healthy competition, teamwork, and bring up topics you might not normally discuss. It also helps build a bond and trust between family members.

            Screen-free time

            If your family is anything like mine, screen time limitations are a challenge, not just for the kids but for the adults in the family as well. Intentionally setting our phones aside while we play a game together gives all of us a break from the constant barrage of social media and other digital distractions and frees us to take the time to focus on each other.

            Reading skills boost

            Games are a great way for kids to build their reading and comprehension skills. If you really want to work on these skills, choose games that will help challenge your child’s reading level. For example, when playing trivia, the kids each take turns reading questions that may be about subjects that are new to them. They practice their read-aloud skills and might learn new information too.

            Create great family memories

            Perhaps the best reason to add a family game night to your schedule is enjoying quality time together. While doing so you will create wonderful family memories as you laugh together and enjoy some healthy competition. Kids are sure to look back on this family tradition and appreciate that you made time to set aside the distractions of life and enjoy playing together. .

            When planning a game night, make sure to be realistic. Playing games for several hours every Saturday night will probably not work for most families because of busy schedules. Plan a night where everyone is free and choose a game that can be played in a reasonable amount of time and keep everyone’s interest, as well as be fun for all involved. Put game night on your calendar and adjust plans to protect that time from other engagements. The time you put into family game night will be worth the bond your family members will build and the memories you will share.

Sarah Lyons is a part-time freelance writer and a full-time mom of six living in Olathe.