As the holiday season approaches, families everywhere are preparing for time together, cosy evenings, and perhaps even a few days of boredom to contend with. Instead of defaulting to screen time or endless scrolling, why not dust off the board games? These timeless classics, which range from strategy-driven epics to fast-paced party games, are more than just entertainment. They can be a secret weapon for learning and developing essential skills—often without anyone realising they’re learning at all!
Whether you’re playing with a competitive teenager, a curious five-year-old, or a mix of all ages, board games can foster academic, social, and even emotional growth. Here’s how, and why the holiday season is the perfect time to give it a go.
Board Games as a Learning Tool
Board games might not look like traditional educational tools, but they pack a punch when it comes to teaching key skills. Whether it’s rolling the dice, planning a strategy, or negotiating with other players, games can encourage growth in areas like:
1. Numeracy and Basic Maths
Counting spaces, managing in-game currency, or calculating probabilities are all opportunities to strengthen numeracy skills. For younger children, games like Snakes and Ladders teach basic counting, while older players can refine their arithmetic with Monopoly or The Game of Life.
For more advanced learners, games like Settlers of Catan introduce concepts like resource management and strategic allocation, which involve a surprising amount of mental maths.
2. Language and Literacy
Word-based games like Scrabble, Boggle, or Codenames are fantastic for improving vocabulary, spelling, and lateral thinking. Younger children can enjoy picture-based alternatives like Junior Scrabble, while older players can relish the challenge of finding obscure words or crafting clever clues.
These games not only build literacy but also encourage clear communication and creativity—skills that are vital in academic and real-world contexts.
3. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Board games often require players to think several moves ahead, solve puzzles, or make complex decisions. Strategy games like Chess, Risk, or Ticket to Ride push players to weigh options carefully and adapt to changing circumstances.
Even cooperative games like Pandemic or Forbidden Island encourage teamwork and collective problem-solving, which are invaluable skills in school and beyond.
4. Social and Emotional Skills
Playing board games is as much about the people as the gameplay. Turn-taking, handling wins and losses, and negotiating with other players all teach social interaction and emotional regulation.
Games like Guess Who? and Charades can help younger children learn about empathy and recognising emotions, while competitive games give older children a safe space to experience and manage frustration or disappointment.
Perfect for the Holiday Season
There’s something magical about the holidays that lends itself to board games. The colder weather keeps us indoors, the festive atmosphere encourages togetherness, and everyone’s schedules (usually) align. Here’s why it’s the perfect time to incorporate board games into your holiday traditions:
1. Bringing Generations Together
Board games are one of the few activities that can genuinely bridge age gaps. Grandparents, parents, and children can all find common ground over a game of Uno or Cluedo.
Games like Carcassonne or Qwirkle are simple enough for younger players to grasp but still engaging for adults, making them ideal for family gatherings.
2. A Screen-Free Alternative
While tablets and video games often dominate modern households, board games provide a refreshing alternative. They encourage face-to-face interaction and give everyone a chance to unplug and focus on shared moments.
3. Affordable Fun
Board games are a cost-effective way to keep everyone entertained over the holidays. Whether you invest in a new game for the family or rediscover a classic gathering dust on the shelf, they offer hours of fun for little expense.
4. Encouraging Creativity
Many modern board games encourage out-of-the-box thinking, storytelling, and creativity. Games like Dixit, where players interpret surreal illustrations, or Pictionary, which involves drawing clues, are perfect for inspiring imaginative play during the festive break.
How to Choose the Right Board Game
Not all board games are created equal, and the best choice will depend on the players’ ages, interests, and skill levels. Here are a few tips to find the perfect match:
- For Younger Children (Ages 4-8)
- Opt for simple, colourful games with straightforward rules.
- Great options: Candyland, Connect Four, or Guess Who?.
- For Tweens and Teens (Ages 9-16)
- Look for games that involve strategy or storytelling.
- Great options: Catan, Codenames, or Ticket to Ride.
- For Adults and Families
- Choose games that balance complexity with fun.
- Great options: Azul, Wingspan, or Secret Hitler.
- For Large Gatherings
- Go for party games that are quick to learn and play.
- Great options: Telestrations, Werewolf, or Taboo.
Tips for a Successful Game Night
To make the most of your holiday board game sessions, consider the following:
- Set the Mood: Create a cosy, relaxed environment with snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating.
- Be Patient with Rules: Learning a new game can sometimes be daunting, especially for younger players. Take the time to explain the rules clearly, and don’t be afraid to simplify if needed.
- Encourage Friendly Competition: Focus on having fun rather than winning. A little competition can be healthy, but the goal should always be enjoyment and connection.
- Rotate Games: Variety keeps things fresh. Alternate between longer, more involved games and quicker, lighter options to suit everyone’s attention span.
The Lasting Benefits of Play
What makes board games so remarkable is their ability to teach without feeling like a lesson. They offer children (and adults!) the chance to practice skills in a low-pressure, engaging environment.
The benefits extend far beyond the holiday season. Regular game nights can become a cherished family tradition, a way to unwind after a busy week, or even an educational supplement during school holidays.
So, this holiday season, why not make board games a central part of your family time? You’ll create memories, share laughs, and—perhaps without even realising—help everyone sharpen skills that will last a lifetime.
Happy gaming!
Seasonal Guest Blog by Anne-Marie Firmin
Educational expert from Manning’s Tutors
