Remember when I posted about winter kicking our collective tush over here, and how we were looking to turn all those lemons that winter was chucking at us into lemonade?
Remember this guy??
Our solution was to start an 8-week Board Game Challenge. Here in New England, the goal is always to survive February. At least, that’s my goal. Remember Schizz thought 8-weeks was too long? Whatever, Schizz! Tonight, I realized that we have been participating in the Board Game Challenge for one month now. Those who know me in real life know that I am loving this challenge. I’ve learned about so many new games from you guys! Gosh, I love a good board game!
Do you need to survive February? Do you want to join in our challenge? It’s not too late. We have another month left of our Board Game Challenge.
Do you need a little more convincing? Let me list some reasons why I think that board games are totally awesome.
Board Games Are Awesome Because:
- Board games are an excellent way to spend time with your family. Better than a movie night, board games allow for constant interaction, conversation, and laughter. Simply put: board games make memories.
- Play. Need I say more? The importance of play cannot be underestimated.Kids in the United States aren’t allowed enough time for play nowadays.
- Conversation happens when you are playing games or playing sports. I know that for parents of young children, the conversation never ceases so this bullet may not be much of a draw, however, I can tell you that older kids and teens often need something to do before they open up verbally. Why do I have so many games? Part of the reason is that I used them when I worked in schools as a school psych and counselor. If I wanted kids to open up, I’d break out a game or go for a walk to the gym.
- Games assist with social skills development. Playing games helps with the development of turn taking, impulse control, verbal communication, waiting, sharing, and sportsmanship.
- Understanding of and adherence to rules. You are going to need to read and follow directions for the rest of your life, folks. It’s best to start early in a fun way.
- Games can be educational. I would argue that most games are educational but, certainly, some are better than others. Depending on what you are playing you can learn skills including but not limited to: logic, reasoning, pattern recognition, patience, speed, strategy, imagination, creativity, hand-eye-coordination, team building, and cooperation.
- Board games help you to learn how to lose with some modicum of grace. In this life, we are going to lose. We’re going to lose many, many times. Overcoming challenges and losses bolsters resiliency. It’s important to learn how to lose in this life, folks!
The challenge isn’t over yet! C’mon… you know you want to!
So, tell me… what would you add to this list? What was your favorite game as a child? Do you have favorite board game memories from childhood? What are your family’s favorite games? Please share here. Just don’t tell Schizz! 
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Life is more fun if you play games.
~Roald Dahl
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I love board games and Sunday has been named family board game night. The problem is we never manage to play board games. We always get busy on the weekends and before we know it it’s bed time. Maybe I should move it to a weeknight?
Board games during the week are awesome
I highly recommend. But, then again, I’m a little obsessed 
Thank you for reading, Jenn!