Sunday, January 27, 2008

Game Night

With the increase of television shows, DVR, and movies on demand, children are spending less time engaged in quality thinking activities. Parents do not always have the time to sit down with their child and pretend, read a book, or have fun.

One way to change this is to schedule a game night each month. Here are some tips:
  • Schedule the night, but do not be limited to the schedule. If you find you all have nothing to do, pull out some games.
  • There are games for children as young as two and all the way to age 100. Do not worry if they cannot follow the rules in the younger years, the importance is to interact, to think, and to turn off the t.v.
  • You can often find games at garage sales or thrift stores. If they are missing some parts, contact the company for replacement parts. Most will send you what you need for a small fee.
  • Always choose a game that is appropriate for the youngest member of the family. Here are some game ideas for all ages.
  • Don't make winning the most important aspect of the game. Most parents can beat their children at many games, but you don't want to always be the winner. Plus, your child will know if you are not really trying to play.
  • Don't talk on the phone or jump on the computer. Really take the time to interact.

3 comments:

AudreyO said...

I'm laughing so hard reading this, but please let me explain. My daughter is the QUEEN of word games. There is NO ONE who can beat her at Boggle or any word game. I challenge her constantly with my main focus TO BEAT HER LOL.

Audrey :)

Fun Mommy said...

That is funny- as they get older, it is MUCH harder to beat them. My middle school class beats me at strategy games all the time! :)

ShellyH said...

We used to have game night every week or two when our daughter was little. She is now 22 and out on her home. With that being said, my hubby and I are still gamers and we play a game 2-3 times a week even if its just a few hands of cards!