Family game night provides casual time together. This encourages the kids to open up. A crucial part of parenting is listening to our kids when they are willing to share. It is also important to ask a lot of questions to check in and be sure things are going well.

There is something about being gathered as a family around the table that eases stress and encourages kids to share. When my children know they have my attention, they open up.

While having a family game night, we have had conversations about really important topics. When the kids share about what happened with their friends at the playground, we can help them navigate friendships.

You can start this with young kids and simple games like Don’t Break the Ice. But, family game nights are also wonderful ways to keep older kids engaged. We play games like Play 9 or Five Crowns or even Spades.

Game shows turned into board games are a hit around here too. The Wheel of Fortune board game is a fun one. Or try this DIY Jeopardy board for your next game night at home.

It is an opportunity not to find fault but to solidify our family’s values. In these seemingly small moments, we teach so much.

Benefits of Family Game Night Quality Time Together

Winter weather provides the perfect excuse to plan a family game night. We won’t miss anything on the news by turning it off for a night. Kids crave quality time with us. Playing a board game as a family, teaches me so much about my children.

Family game night provides margin time where the kids open up. There is something about being gathered as a family around the table that eases stress and encourages kids to share.

While playing games, we have had conversations about deep topics. When my children know they have my attention, they open up.

They share about what happened with their friends at the playground. Deep conversations stem from interactions with their friends. It is an opportunity not to find fault but to solidify our family’s values. In these seemingly small moments, we teach so much.

The smiles, eye contact, and laughter, are what I notice most. We all could have just had a disagreement about what was for dinner. But, after when gathered around the table, we are a team. Together our connections get stronger.

Of course, there are the more spirited moments too! My super competitive child reels at any potential chance of losing a game of Go Fish. She has that focus and intensity that reveals her inner strengths. Her two brothers just egg her on. It causes us all to marvel and try to calm her down.

We get to discuss sportsmanship, patience and humility in these moments. Even my other children will chime in with statements like, “It is just a game!”  Hearing them guide each other to more positive behavior is a precious moment.

The quality time happens when we are not always looking for it. Family game night can foster those solid family connections. The quality time together as a family is the real benefit.