Buyer's Guide - Kids

Board Games

Children’s games, such as board games are not only fun to play but they’re educational.  Kids can learn about patience (waiting to take their turn), winning and losing, as well as cooperation and competition while they’re having fun.  In many cases, mathematics and logic skills are also exercised.

Through both board and card games, interaction with friends, siblings and parents is an important virtue developed.  Sportsmanship is also a valuable skill that is learned while playing these games.

There are a multitude of games available that are specifically designed for young children’s needs and abilities; however, parents will want to be involved the first few times kids play the games to help them learn the rules and give them feedback.  A great way to introduce kids to board games is to have a family game night when parents can supervise and teach their children about the board games and provide everyone with a night of fun.

There’s certainly a board game out there for everyone.  Following is a short list of some of the types of games available:

• Trivia Games:  These games reward those who have knowledge in multiple categories.  Many of the adult versions of these games also come with substitute “kids questions” so that the entire family can play together.
• Sports-themed Games:  Multiple companies produce games for baseball, football, ice hockey, soccer, auto racing and basketball.  While many of these games are geared toward adults there are also specific lines for each of these themes that are designed especially for children. 
• Detective Games:  Games of mystery and deduction encourage abstract thinking and logic.  Some will make your family laugh, others might provide a little scare.
• Party Games:  The goal of party games is to have a great time.  Social interaction is emphasized over tactics and strategy – and in most cases, success is measured based on how much fun you have and how hard you laugh rather than how well you do.
• Word and Number Games:  Word games are a great way to help young children learn how to read and spell, and for older children these games can help them to fall in love with words.  Number games can encourage your child’s mathematical skills to develop while having a light-hearted, fun time.
• Classic Games:  Board games have been played in most cultures and societies throughout history.  Some are luck-based while others involve significant strategy.  Simple, classic board games often make ideal family entertainment since they are often appropriate for all ages.