Curious about how to make board game night work when kids are there? It’s a good question and one I’d like to give you some tips on today. So, let’s jump in!
When it comes to making board game night work when kids are there, remember that it’s a great thing kids are present. To make this experience even better, embrace the fact that kids are present, set some boundaries, have things for them to do, and, above all, let the parents of each kid manage them.
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Some Background About My Board Game Nights When Kids Are There
I don’t have kids. I might one day, but at the moment, I don’t. So, why am I writing this article?
I regularly play board games with several friends who have kids. Often, those kids are at game nights with us. Personally, I welcome it because kids are funny and it adds a little more fun to game night.
Still, I know some folks stress about having kids at game night, so I thought I’d write something to help them out. That said, I’m fully aware all of this could be complete nonsense for some people’s situations or in general. Maybe it only works for mine, after all.
But my hope is that folks will find some usefulness in the tips below.
With that said, let’s get to them!
How To Make Board Game Night Work When Kids Are There
The first thing to make board game night work when kids are there is to realize that it’s okay for kids to be at a board game night. Especially, if that’s the only way you can hang out with your friends and family, then there’s nothing wrong with that way.
So, my first tip is to embrace the experience.
Embrace The Chaos Of Board Game Night When Kids Are There
With kids, chaos is expected. That’s what makes them great, and that’s what makes them kids. Think about it: they’re still-developing humans who have barely a fraction of the experiences in life that you or I likely do.
So, kids are going to make mistakes, they’re going to be silly, unpredictable, and above all, they’re just going to be kids. Instead of trying to fight against a tide that’s literally unbeatable, just go with the flow. If a kid asks what you’re doing and that interrupts your concentration, stop, realize you’ve been blessed with the trust and curiosity of another human being, and tell them!
If a kid moves a piece they weren’t supposed to, let their parent (if the kid isn’t yours) correct them and move the piece back. Meanwhile, laugh it off or make a joke out of it. The parent could use it, and it helps to let them know that you’re totally okay with the kid being there. Glad even.
This also ties into the next point.
Don’t Parent Kids That Aren’t Yours
It’s tempting, and sometimes you do have to step in to help out. But, for the most part, leave the parenting of other people’s children to them. Unless there’s a dangerous situation about to happen or you know the parent is okay with it, let them take care of their kids.
Set Clear Boundaries For The Kids
This is more for the parents of the kids, but they might ask you what is and isn’t okay for their kids to do (if you’re not having game night at their place). Be honest with them, but also be realistic. And when a kid crosses a boundary, let the parent take care of it.
Let The Kids Be Involved
Hey, why not? Depending on how old the kids are, they may be very curious about what you’re doing or even want to help out. Let them! It makes special memories for the parents plus it keeps the kids engaged with something to do.
Have Something For The Kids To Do
Kids’ attention spans are very, very short. That’s just how they are. So, while they might be interested in your game, that interest is likely to only last for a little while.
While parents should hopefully have things for their kids to do, it’s a good idea to have some other things on tap to help them out. What kids end up liking may also surprise you.
I once saw a kid at game night play with a motorized mop (like Swiffer but with the press of a button it automatically adds cleaner) for about 20 minutes. I’ve never seen someone so focused and in such joy in all my life.
Still, you probably shouldn’t be giving kids motorized mops to play with, but if you’ve got something you think they’ll like, maybe some LEGOs or a movie, by all means, suggest it to the parent and see what they say.
Accept That Things Will Go Wrong
Sometimes, board game night will end early. Maybe a kid gets hurt, for example. This is okay and something you should expect.
This won’t happen all the time, but it’s better to appreciate the time you do have playing games than the time you don’t.
Did You Know?
(Each time you refresh the page you will get a new “Did You Know” fact!)
Did you know that art really matters for a board game? While this isn’t always the case, a unique or powerful art style can elevate a board game from good to great. The reverse is also true.
Conclusion: How To Make Board Game Night Work When Kids Are There
So, when it comes to how to make board game night work when kids are there, it’s actually not that hard at all. Just remember that you’re still getting to play games, kids are awesome, and as long as everyone’s having a good time, then that’s all that matters.
I’m curious what your strategies might be though. What’s worked or not worked for you? Let us know your thoughts and why in the comments below!
And, as always, keep on gaming, you maniacs.
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