Family games are great for bonding and having fun.
They also get your kids in the habit of communicating with you early on – something you’ll love when they’re older. So here are five great ways to create that special time for your family.
At a glance
- Download an ideas app to your phone
- Board games are an educational way to play together
- It can be fun to embrace your inner kid
Get great games ideas!
Check out the Make Time To Play website, which offers endless ideas for for all ages. From toddler tennis, water fights and tree climbing (with help!) to ball games, tiny assault courses and crazy golf – the list is endless.
Even easier is their phone app – just say how many players you’ve got and where you’re playing and you’ll get a game that’s tailored for your family. If the first idea you get isn't right, just shake your phone for a new one.
Board games
Having a regular family games night is a great way of strengthening your little family unit. And board games offer a hugely fun and highly educational way to play together as a family.
Treasure hunts
Indoors or outdoors, young kids love the thrill of a treasure hunt - especially if you use simple clues, or that old favourite, the ‘colder, warmer, hotter!’ game. Just think of a few simple clues, hide a few treats and watch your kids go nearly mad with excitement.
Picnic
Preparing and eating together is always bonding as a family and kids loving getting outdoors, so why not combine the lot and ask your kids to help prepare a picnic – even little ones can help butter the odd slice of bread. Then grab a game, pack a bag and head outdoors. It doesn’t matter if it’s 10 minutes in the garden or a proper stomp into your local forest. A family picnic gives any day out a real sense of adventure!
Find your inner kid
You might fancy striding along a hearty walk along the beach, or exploring the grounds of a National Trust property, but young children rarely get the concept of a long walk, and all you end up saying is ‘come on, come on’. So why not find an open area, tap into your inner kid and throw yourself wholeheartedly into silly games like ‘What’s the Time Mr Wolf’, Simon Says or hide-and-seek. Huge family fun you kids will really love!