This is a collaborative post
Kids today love computer games, Mario, Sonic etc and think the world revolves around their gadgets, don’t they? Whilst that isn’t always a bad thing and it helps you as a parent to have a bit of a break at times, it also can be sad as you feel you don’t really spend much time with them anymore. Here I want to share with you how you can teach your kids turn-taking with classic games so that you can enjoy them together. Whilst still using a screen if that is their preference.
Classic games perfect for turn-taking
So many games nowadays are designed for multiplayer on consoles which are great for siblings to play together however sometimes it means their turn-taking skills are limited. The best games in my opinion for teaching turn-taking are simple games such as snakes and ladders, Connect Four, Noughts and Crosses and for older children chess.
When teaching turn-taking it is better to start with games that involve just two people and ensure those games are short. Board games are perfect as the child can see what is happening and there is less waiting time involved.
What about when kids still want their screens?
I know what you are thinking, little Joey still wants to play on his iPad or Nintendo Switch and you don’t want to keep paying for apps or games to download. You really don’t have to, there are two options available to you.
Firstly you could buy actual board games and insist they have some screen-free time. Whilst this sounds like a great option it isn’t always that easy. The cost of board games is ridiculous as it is, why should we pay £20 for each game, not even knowing if they will enjoy it and how long it will last before a piece ends up missing?
Another option is playing the games for free online. Instead of hunting out each game individually, there is a website I have found which is perfect for this. Full of free classic kids games, and more adult games too, you are sure to find something suitable.
Enjoy playing the games with your child
If you enjoy playing the games you find with your child they are more likely to enjoy it too. It will not seem like a chore to anyone and be so much fun. think back to the days when you enjoyed snakes and ladders as a youngster or perhaps tic-tac-toe. You never know you may find something you like to play on when you are procrastinating too!
What was your favourite childhood board game? Did you ever complete a Rubik’s cube? I am determined to try now I have found an online Rubik’s cube to try!
