The Benefits of Playing Games for Children

by | Jan 19, 2021 | Family, Mental Health, Parenting with Purpose, School, Uncategorized

Please share!
Game and movie night! Yellowstone-opoly…
who knew it was a thing!

There are many benefits of playing games and playground games for children. Games might be played independently, in partners or in small groups. The overarching benefit for all is that board games can be played anywhere and at any time. Also there are many free kids games you can play.

make PLAYING GAMES A habit

Make playing games a habit. Playing board games should be a habit that is established in each family. This means not just enjoying it once in a while, but a regular scheduled activity for your family. Rotate games so that everyone stays interested each week. 

character traits

Some of the benefits of playing games include the character traits that are taught at school every day. These are traits that help children throughout the entire life. The more practice using these traits the easier it is to use them. They become ingrained in daily life. These include:

  • Cooperation
  • Assertion
  • Responsibility
  • Self-control
  • Empathy

many benefits

There are many benefits to playing games as a family and friends. Some of these include:

  1. Taking turns
  2. Being patient
  3. Learning how to win and lose
  4. Following rules
  5. Working together
  6. Strengthening relationships
  7. Enhancing creativity

Skills PRACTICED AND LEARNED

Fine motor, large motor and cognitive skills are practiced when playing board games or playground games. Fine motor includes moving small pieces on the board such as dice to roll, spinners to spin, and any specific game pieces included in the game. Large motor would include playing four-square, basketball, or using larger items to complete the game. Cognitive skills include those skills having to do with math, reading, writing, or any other skill involving thinking. For example, games like Scrabble or Monopoly would benefit children.

Ultimately children want to spend time with their parents and their friends. Games can be played anywhere and anytime. Playing games creates that type of environment for both. Fortunately it gives children the opportunity to learn and grow while having fun.

  • Monopoly (If you love Monopoly as much as I do, you HAVE to check out this site with other games like Monopoly.)
  • Stratego
  • Chess
  • Backgammon
  • Checkers
  • Chinese Checkers
  • Candyland
  • Trouble
  • Guess Who?
  • Yahtzee
  • Clue
  • Uno
  • Puzzles
  • Jump Rope

There are many benefits to playing games for children. If you are looking for safe games for kids to play online check out Safe Kid Games.

By Dr. Kim Grengs, Parent Coach

Click here to go to the list of games.

Join our FB Group

Make a puzzle out of your child’s coloring page or one of their pictures. Then cut it up into a desired amount of pieces for your child to put back together. Homemade and fun at the same time. So good!

Other posts you may be interested in

3 Tips To Get Closer To Your Teen

Would you like a better relationship with your teen? Of course you would. You didn't become a parent to do a lousy job at parenting! So finding 3...

Concerned About Your Child’s Screen Time?

Are you concerned about your child’s screen time? You are not alone. The pandemic increased screen time for everyone and it's hard to change those...

15 Amazing Apps For Anxiety, Stress and Mindfulness

In recent years, there's been a surge in apps designed to support mental health. Many of these apps offer tools for managing anxiety, stress and...

Empowering Anxious Children with Technology

Technology today plays a pervasive role in the lives of children. From educational apps to social media, the digital landscape is a double edged...

Fun Family Activities With Technology

Do you feel intimidated using technology with your kids? You are not alone. Many parents do, but one of the best things families can do is engage...

Making The Most Of Parent Teacher Conferences

Dr. Kim Grengs and Lisa Edwards are here to discuss how to make your parent teacher conferences a success. Make sure to watch the video for all the...

Hunt, Gather, Parent ~ Parenting Book Review

Looking for a Good Parenting Book? Read any good parenting books lately? Parenting books are often best sellers. Can there really be anything new to...

Is Your Child Ready For A Smart Phone?

Are you feeling pressure to buy a smart phone for your kids? Are you weighing the decision carefully? If so, good for you! It's a big decision to...

Social Media And Its Impact On Teens

Social media has become an integral part of your teenagers’ lives, shaping their interactions, self-perception and overall experiences. While social...