GAME NIGHT WITH THE KIDS!

The Household Genie knows that an important part of taking care of children is to have fun and exciting things to do together with them. Having a “game night” has always been an important part of our household. It gives parents and kids a bonding opportunity that will be remembered for years to come. It doesn't require a lot of money that paying for tickets at the movies or zoo require. It doesn't even require gas money. Game night is an affordable and fun way of spending time with your children. A good night to set up a game night is on Friday or Saturday because the kids can stay up a little later since it is not a school night. Game night can be held with young children, as well as school age children. 

The best way to start game night is eating dinner together. After finishing dinner, as well as cleaning up the kitchen (so you are not thinking about having to do the clean up during game night), it is now time to start the fun!

Put out some healthy snacks, such as veggie sticks or fruit, that are easy to nibble on while playing. Turn off television and radio and be sure the area you are using is well lit. The kitchen table is my favorite place. It is easy and comfortable for everyone to reach the pieces of the game, it usually has a bright light over it, and there is room for drinks and snacks.

Some favorite games for younger children are Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, and even building toys, such as Legos or Tinker Toys. For older children, mystery games seem to be a favorite in our household, such as Clue or an older game called Mystery Mansion. Other favorites are Monopoly, Life, and Dominoes Mexican Train game.

If you start a regular pattern of having game night, the kids will get used to having it and will be asking you for it if you forget to plan it! A lot of times, one game is not enough for game night. Once you start playing and are “in the mode of game playing,” you may be asked by the kids to play the same game again or play a new second game.

Game night’s a great time for the kids to bring up things that happened in school or just talk about things that are happening. Just remember that even though times may be extremely hectic and busy, it is important to keep this game night date with your kids. It is something that all will remember!