Children's Educational Board Games - Can They Compete With Today's Technology?

Our educational board games used to sit in the closet gathering dust. Like other families, our children are constantly wanting to play computer and video games. Even Mom and Dad can get entranced with all of the stunning computer graphics available. It's sometimes hard to pull yourself away from these mesmerizing games. But one has to think, what is happening to us when we play these games? Are we building strong family bonds or playing a game in a zombie-like state? What types of people are we creating who go off to play a game by themselves in their own room?

Children's Board Games bring the family back together around one table. Playing cards, Monopoly, Zooreka (by Cranium), Tripoly, Sharp Shooters foster bonding conversations, memories and laughter. Playing children's board games is also the perfect way for children to develop life skills, practice proper behavior, interact with others and learn without scholarly lessons.

Although it seems like a new crop of games come out every year, you can always feel confident choosing a game that has stood the test of time and become a classic. These are the children's board games that you remember playing as a child. Do you remember your first experience playing Checkers, Scrabble or Yahtzee?

Children's board games are made to be entertaining while expanding the child's mind with new experiences. Many of these life experiences can then be translated into real life situations when the children grow older, such as cooperation; taking turns, being patient, and winning and losing graciously. What's most important is that our children learn these qualities while having fun.

In a day where families are slowly being unconsciously pulled apart, adopting a family night of playing children's board games will bring you together in ways you can not foresee. Do not be daunted by children who don't seem to want to participate in playing board games. For many, this may be a totally new concept. Initially it may seem forced and uncomfortable. Just remember your joy as a child when playing and it will awaken the joy in your children. It may happen quickly or may take several weeks. Many people, including our children, can be resistant to change. Once they catch on though, you'll be hearing, "I don't want to go to bed. Can't we play one more game?" This is the ultimate reward for your efforts... and no more dusty board games!

Cory and Anamarie Seidel are committed parents to four children. Since establishing their own game night, they have discovered the importance of introducing classic board games to children to expand their life experience. For more ideas and information about board games and game night, please visit www.EducationalBoardGames.org