Bringing back the good old-fashioned family game night
While electronic resources are in abundance, many parents are trying to get their kids off of electronics, not on them more. Especially for those rainy days, we need some activities that the whole family can enjoy. Playing a game as a family can be a great way to bond. My kids would argue it’s even better with snacks!
Check out the following recommendations from local parents. You can buy these online from your local shops, trade with a neighbor, or find them buried in your kids’ toy closet. Oh, and don’t let them fool you; teens love a lot of these games too!
Just don’t forget to support your local toy stores by shopping local. Mudpuddles Toy Store (407 N. 5th Ave, Ann Arbor, 734-662-0022) offers curbside pick-up and The Rocket: Supercool Gifts (122 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti, 734-483-2291) offers online and local delivery.Â
Recommended for ages 3+
Dinosaur Snakes and Ladders
The original Chutes and Ladders gets a dinosaur make-over.
Hoot Owl Hoot!
A cooperative matching game for kids.
Kids On StageÂ
A charades game for kids.
Richard Scarry’s Busytown
This board is over 6 feet long!
Snug as a Bug in a Rug
A counting, colors, and shapes game.
Zingo!
Play Bingo while learning sight words!
Recommended for ages 6+
LCR
This simple dice game can be fun played with real coins too!
Sorry!
The game of sweet revenge.
Throw Throw Burrito
A game where it’s okay to throw your food (if it’s a squishy non-edible burrito, that is).
UNO Flip!
This fresh take on the original allows you to switch to the dark side.
Wits and Wagers Family Edition
History’s most award-winning party game.
Recommended for ages 8+
Carcassone
An interesting twist on collaborative puzzle-building.
Michigan Rummy
The Perfect Blend of Rummy and Poker for an entirely new game experience.
Monopoly Deal
Kid’s attention span too short for hours of Monopoly? This card game version can be played in 15 minutes!
The Oregon Trail Card Game
Feeling nostalgic? This card game simulates the original computer game!
The Scrambled States of America
A fun way to learn all 50 states, capitals, and nicknames.
Shut-the-Box
A classic dice game that used to be played in old English pubs.
Sushi Go!
A pick and pass card game that will make you crave a maki roll.
Ticket to Ride
This cross country train adventure game also comes in a version for younger kids called First Journey.Â
Yahtzee
A fast-paced dice game and a fun way to practice math skills.
