- Start with great games. Offer board games that the whole group can enjoy. Steer clear of
"love-them-or-hate-them" games like Trivial Pursuit or Risk. For the best
new games that appeal to a wide range of people, talk to us in store or
check out our Guaranteed Fun list. A lot of new games have come out in the
last 5 years.
- Keep up the fun level by minimizing rules explanations. For example, if
you have a new game that nobody has played, the best thing is to have one
person read the rules and get familiar with the game before everyone sits
down together. This will cut the rules explanation time in half, leaving
more time for fun game playing.
- Take turns choosing which game to play next. This is especially
important in families where siblings have the keenest sense of what's
"fair"!
- Explain the rules first and then give a few strategy tips. Let them play
their own game. Resist the urge to coach at every turn, unless they ask.
- Some people like to play the same game twice, especially if they just
learned it. Go for it! Many games get better each time you play.
- When playing with children, should you let them win? Well that's up to
you! But if you choose a game that suits their age, they can beat you fair
and square. Games for younger ages usually have more luck than skill, which
means anyone can win.
- Offer some snacks that are not messy. For example potato chips would be
too oily on the fingers, but pretzels are great. You can try raw veggies if
you're feeling healthy, or go the other way with Skittles and M&Ms.
- "Unplug." Play some nice music, but keep the t.v. and computers off. If
some of the group are "technology addicts", you can always schedule a 10
minute break between games to check emails and text messages!
- You only need 2 people at minimum to have a game night. There are lots
of games that play well with 2 or more players.
- Remember it's about fun and playing together!
For game suggestions, come and see us in-store to learn about some games. Or check out our Guaranteed Fun list! |
