So, you all have gathered around for a good old-fashioned family game night. What could be better? Who could imagine that this perfect opportunity for some good family bonding could turn into a nightmare of chaotic screams and kids jostling each other like they are auditioning for a rugby team.
But let's be real. Family game night can also be a high-stakes situation that spirals into complete chaos. With five in my family, things can head south quicker than you can say, "Uno!" So, to keep the peace—and to avoid turning your living room into a battleground—follow my advice. Here's how to survive, and maybe even enjoy, family game night.
Tip 1: Choose Your Battles (and Your Games) Wisely
Let's be honest, every parent knows that not all games are created equal. Every kid in the family approaches the game differently. This might be the perfect time for the kids to take out any grudges they have against each other. So, if you have got kids with very different personalities, then this step is the most crucial of all.
One of your children might be a strategic player, the other one might be about all fun towards the game. Then there's the one who likes to win at all costs, even if it means flipping the board when things don't go their way.
What do you play? Monopoly? No way—the number of grudges you could hold are plenty. Instead, you can whip out something that gives a little to everyone, like Codenames: the strategist gets to flex those mental muscles, the fun-lover to get a kick out of wordplay, and the competitive one still feels like a key player without causing meltdown. It's not perfect, but it's the best truce we can all live with.
Tip 2: Use Your Secret Weapon, Snacks!!!
If there is one thing that might help keep tempers from flaring up on the roof, it's the snacks. Hungry kids are grumpy kids, and well, that is just asking for a mess on game night. Make sure to have a steady supply of everybody's favorites on hand: chips, popcorn, candy, some ice cream—come on, who doesn't love a scoop?
Moreover, snacks do double duty. They keep the kids occupied during the inevitable lulls in gameplay. And if things begin to get tight, a very smartly offered ice cream will diffuse the situation so much. You wouldn't believe the number of times the snack will save you from meltdown mode.
Tip 3: Use Humor to Keep Things Light
A humorous way out is the best way out. It is the best way to keep things getting too intense during a family game night. Whether it's the silly voices during Charades or having a laugh at Dad's shocking lack of Pictionary skills. Believe it or not laughter is the only secret weapon.
You want everyone to be laughing with you, not at you. Make it a rule that only good-natured teasing is allowed. After all, we're supposed to be having fun, not hurting feelings. Besides, who needs a grudge carried over to next week's game night?
Tip 4: Set the House Rules
A stitch in time saves nine! A family game night must come with pre-established ground rules. Let's get real, house rules might help you to shelter yourself from the upcoming storm of chaos. Rule no 1: no cheating, this may sound obvious, but kids will find loads of loopholes if you aren't specific.
Rule no. 2: No making up rules on the fly. This is mainly for Dads out there, who have a habit of introducing "house rules" whenever they feel backed into a corner. No, Dad, you can't suddenly decide that doubles in Monopoly let you roll three times instead of two. We're onto you. And finally, rule no. 3: No winning and gloating, that means no victory dances from one kid when they win, and no storming off from the other when they lose. (It might take a lot of work!)
Tip 5: Know When to Wave a White Flag
Every parent has a gift of sensing a mood shift. Thats your cue to wave a white flag.
In every game night there comes a moment, when kids start getting fidgety and you longingly stare at the clock and start calculating down to the minute how long it'll be until everyone's in bed. It's time to pack up the game when it gets this far. You know, sometimes knowing when to stop is just the way to keep peace. Trust me, ending the game while everyone's still mostly in good spirits is better than if you pushed on until somebody snaps.
Wrapping It Up
Family game night is no small feat in a house with kids. But with the right approach, a sense of humor, and a lot of patience, it's possible to survive these kinds of nights and come out having enjoyed them.
So next time you're around that table, equipped with board games and snacks, remember these tips. They might just make the difference between a night of fun and one you'll all need to recover from. And hey, if all else fails, there's always next week!
