Fri. Dec 6th, 2024
Board Games

Gathering around a table for a board game has become a cherished activity, especially during festive seasons. According to Dr Zoe Williams from ITV’s This Morning, games not only bring families together but also offer numerous benefits for wellbeing and mental health.

Strengthen family bonds with board games

Dr Zoe highlights how board games can reconnect families in an increasingly digital world. “With everyone glued to different screens, it’s easy to feel disconnected,” she says. “Games bring generations together, creating shared moments and breaking any festive tensions.”

Laughter during gameplay fosters a positive atmosphere and strengthens relationships. Sharing light-hearted competition can also ease stress and keep energy levels high.

Boost brainpower

Board games are excellent for stimulating the mind. Dr Zoe notes how different game mechanics improve memory, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills for all ages. From children to grandparents, everyone benefits from the mental workout.

The sense of achievement from finishing a game—even without winning—provides a dopamine boost. This elevates mood and builds confidence, ensuring fun extends beyond the game table.

Encourage mindfulness

Playing games encourages players to focus on the present moment, offering an informal mindfulness practice. Immersing in gameplay helps individuals switch off from daily stresses and promotes wellbeing.

Reduce screen time

Games also encourage families to spend quality time together away from screens. This face-to-face interaction nurtures human connection, which is vital in today’s digital-first culture.

Top board games picks

If you’re inspired to play, here are some brilliant suggestions from Ravensburger:

Best for family fun: Mycelia

Enjoy magical forest adventures with this award-winning deck-building game. Suitable for ages 9 and up, RRP £27.99.

Best for giggles: Oh My Pigeons!

Steal pigeons, flick poo, and laugh your way to victory in this birdbrained party game. Ages 8+, RRP £18.99.

Best for kids: Garden Heist

This hide-and-seek-style game pits raccoons against gardeners. Perfect for children aged 6+, RRP £24.99.

Best for Disney fans: Disney Lorcana Gateway

Jump into the magical world of Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game. Ideal for ages 8+, RRP £22.99.

Best for big groups: That’s Not a Hat 2

Bluff your way to success in this quick card game for 3–8 players. Ages 8+, RRP £7.99.

Best for teamwork: Chronicles of Light: Darkness Falls (Disney)

Join forces as Disney heroines to save the day. Suitable for ages 8+, RRP £29.99.

Share the joy this Christmas with board games

Dr Zoe’s advice reminds us that board games are more than entertainment—they’re tools for connection, growth, and joy. This festive season, make time to gather around the table and rediscover the magic of play.

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By Fergus McCarthy

Fergus McCarthy is a seasoned publishing professional with over three decades of experience in the media industry. In 1993, he co-founded Parents News, a pioneering publication aimed at providing busy parents in Southwest London with essential information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly activities. Under his leadership, Parents News quickly expanded its reach from 60,000 to 192,000 monthly printed copies, establishing additional branches in Kent, South London, Northern Ireland, and Cornwall. In 1997, recognizing the potential of digital media, Fergus helped launch Parents News UK Online, which carried digital editions of the printed publication and offered a broader range of national information. The website's popularity soared, attracting up to 700 daily hits at its peak. Although Parents News transitioned to an online-only platform in 2017, Fergus continues to play a vital role as Publisher and Advertising Manager, focusing on providing value to businesses through effective advertorials.

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