When it comes to the Engelbrecht household, the negotiations about screen time are a challenge daily. The moment our toddlers feel bored, they believe Netflix is the answer. And, while there are loads of educational and watch worthy kiddies’ series on there, I’d prefer that they play!
There are many reasons why I am not a fan of screen time. One of them being that our kids’ discipline tends to decrease the more they watch television. Somehow, screen time has the same effect as sweets in our home and it’s a constant struggle to keep the balance. While some board games are still too difficult for our two- and four-year-old, there are games like Snakes and Ladders, Jenga Blocks and more that will keep them busy for hours. And, it’s the ideal opportunity for the family to spend some time together.
Here are six reasons why board games are good for your children (and you):

Board games boost brain function
Playing stimulates the brain in a different way as it’s outside of your usual day to day activities like work or school. It encourages players to practice essential cognitive skills like decision making, higher level strategic thinking and problem solving.
Practice your patience
Board games have a way of teaching you lessons about cause and effect. With that, it also teaches patience. In real life, it takes skill and strategy to win at something. By playing board games, you get to hone your strategy skills and patience in a stress-free, fun environment.
No stress
Board games usually go hand in hand with a relaxed atmosphere where friends and family engage and have fun. This type of activity is a vital ingredient for an enjoyable learning experience, plus it increases creativity – both things that counteracts stress.
Connect over a board game (and a glass of wine)
If you’re looking for an uplifting way to connect with family members of different age groups, board games are a great option. It is also great for socialising with friends and it even poses as the perfect ice breaker at networking conferences and events.

Focus on the here and the now
I am one of those people who contemplates and worries about the future too often. In fact, I often need to remind myself to focus on the here and the now. You know those quotes about not dwelling in the past and not worrying about the future? Yes, I am pretty sure they were all written for me. Hence, being in the present moment, playing a board game with the people who matter to me most, helps me to focus on what’s in front of me. Also, with board games being so engaging, it helps you to be in the present moment and to enjoy what is happening right here, right now. So much more rewarding and engaging than scrolling through your Instagram feed!
Build self-esteem with board games
Board games are probably one of the best ways to make a person feel included and noticed. We all get a turn, we’re all equally important to make the game work and we all have equal chances of winning or losing. Apart from teaching players the very important lesson of it being okay when you don’t win, it also helps people to feel part of the group.
I urge you to try and reduce screen time by investing in one or two board games that your family can play together. It’s such a positive, engaging and fun activity and you will probably soon want to make it a regular thing in your home.
P.S. Do you have any exciting board games you’d like to share with us? I’ve started a collection and would LOVE to know which ones you enjoy most. Here is one of my recent favourites.
Some of the information in this blog post was provided by Unplug Yourself.
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