There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to start playing board games with kids. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you make the best decision for your family.
Board games offer a variety of cognitive and developmental benefits for children, so it is important to introduce them at an early age. However, you don't want to overwhelm your child with too many rules or complex game play.
Board games offer a great way to teach kids about rules, turn taking, and following directions. They can also help with problem solving and critical thinking skills. In addition, board games are a fun and interactive way for families to spend time together. So when is the best time to start playing board games with kids?
The answer may vary depending on the board game, the child's age and attention span. However, most experts agree that some board games are appropriate for children as young as three years old as this is the time when they start to listen and and follow instructions. Their communication skills rapidly develop around this age too, but you might need to wait until they're slightly older. If you're introducing a board game to a younger child, it's important to choose one that is simple and easy to understand.
For young children, we'd suggest starting with cooperative play or a memory game. Maybe leave it a few years before you introduce Monopoly! Read on for some more suggestions.
For older children, you can consider more complex games that will challenge them mentally. Ultimately, the best time to start playing board games with kids is when they are interested and ready to learn. As your child develops, the complexity and length of each game can too!
Here's our suggestions on games to try for younger kids:
And our top picks for older kids:
You can browse all of our board games here. Happy board gaming!
