Board Games

Board games are games played around a table using a board, cards, dice or pieces, with a set of rules everyone follows. Some are about clever strategy, some about luck and many mix the two. They range from ancient classics like chess and backgammon to modern games full of teamwork, tricky decisions and big laughs. Best of all, they bring everyone together around one table.

Classic games such as chess, draughts, dominoes and backgammon have been played for generations, and they're still brilliant for learning to think a few moves ahead.

Strategy games ask you to plan, gather resources and build something bigger than everyone else, whether that's a kingdom, a farm or a city.

Cooperative games put everyone on the same team, working together to beat the game itself. They're a great choice when younger children are playing with older brothers, sisters or grown-ups.

Dexterity games test steady hands and quick fingers, with flicking, stacking or balancing pieces. Party games are all about guessing, drawing and acting silly, and deduction games have you working out who's hiding what.

Start with the youngest player. Look for rules that can be explained in a few minutes and turns that move quickly, so nobody gets restless waiting. Cooperative games are handy for mixed ages, because everyone wins or loses together. Games with a mix of skill and luck help too, as a lucky roll gives everyone a chance, not just the strongest player. Most importantly, pick a theme your family will love, whether that's dragons, animals or treasure.

They're a lovely way to spend time together without a screen in sight. Children get to practise taking turns, following rules, counting, planning ahead and being a good sport, whether they win or lose. Many families find that a game gets everyone chatting and laughing in a way that's hard to beat. And there's something special about the moment a child beats a grown-up fair and square.

Board Games is a relaxed Drop-in, so you can wander in whenever suits you. Tell your Activity Leader what kind of game you fancy, whether that's calm and cosy, fast and competitive or something to play with new friends, and they'll help you find the perfect one and explain how it works. Then settle in, take your turn and see who comes out on top.

You might also like Puzzle Racing, Marble Run and LEGO Engineering.

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