Benefits of Family Games Night
Here’s 5 reasons why you should consider Family Games Night too:
#1 Family games night brings everyone together
With busy lifestyles, it’s more important than ever to create time to spend as a family. It’s not always easy in a culture where everyone is running from one activity to another. Family games night is a great way to purposefully set aside family time – and fun family time at that!
#2) Family games night gets everyone off their screen.
There’s nothing wrong with a little time spent watching TV or playing games on the computer, xbox, or tablet for the kids or us adults, but too much of anything isn’t good.
Family game night is a great way to get the family to turn off the electronics together. There won’t be any arguing “Well he’s still on the computer!” when the whole family is playing a game together. And you know what? In time, your kids will realize there’s a lot of fun to be had beyond screen time!
#3) Family games night teaches good sportsmanship
The winning-losing aspect is one of the pro’s and con’s of game night. It’s not easy to teach disappointed children to be kind when they’ve lost or excited winners not to gloat, but it’s an important life lesson.
I’ve been amazed at how upset some of my children have gotten over losing a game, but I realized this was all the more reason we needed to continue; it’s much better for kids to learn this lesson now when they’re young!
#4 Family game night teaches flexibility
Sometimes a new game just isn’t working. Maybe it’s too hard or just boring. It’s okay to stop and try something different and that’s another good lesson for kids.
At the same time, it’s okay to skip a family game night if you’re just too tired and would rather watch a movie. Game night should be fun, not stressful (aside from a few teaching moments.)
We usually do game night 3 out of 4 nights a month because there’s almost always one night when we’re just too tired or someone in the family has to do something.
Game night is a priority, but not at the cost of stress or guilt.
#5 Game night results in hours of fun!
When I was growing up, my family had Friday night game night every week. Though it was a little too competitive sometimes, I have great memories of those fun times.
When we started this tradition with our family, the kids were a little reluctant at first and I wasn’t sure how well it would work out. But I had no idea just how much fun was in store! We’ve spent HOURS laughing, playing, learning, and growing together as a result of this simple night of fun.
Now, my kids will often ask to play a game beyond games night. I’ll frequently catch them playing one of our favorite games.
