For some families, games night is the core of family time. For others, it is the epicentre of meltdowns. Some kids are just sore losers (adults too). We love board games in my house, and right now we are using them to press pause on technology. If I'm honest, there's been a lot of digital activity in my house as of late.
There's no denying that board games are perfect for keeping children of all ages engaged. They're also inexpensive, and of course, they promote family bonding. What's not to love? So if you're looking for some ideas, here are nine of my favourite family-friendly board games, including some old-timers such as Monopoly, Scrabble and Twister.
Operation
This is a silly fun game for families of all ages. The aim of the game is to remove all the ailments of the poor guy on the operating table, using tweezers without hitting the sides and setting off the buzzer. You will need a steady hand for this one, and it's more challenging than you might think.
Guess Who
A firm favourite in our household and we even have a mug to match. Guess Who is a two-player game and is more suitable for school going kids and beyond. You ask questions about the different characters to try to figure out who the other player has, the first to guess correctly wins.
Monopoly
Monopoly is a fast-paced game for two to eight players dealing in property. The goal of the game is to buy and build hotels and houses on landmark streets and sites all while trying to avoid being sent to jail. There can only be one winner, will it be you?
Rory's Story Cubes
Okay, not necessarily a board game but I'm adding it to my list because it's great craic. Rory's Story Cubes is an Irish business, and they were the first to start the story cube movement. Since their release, they have inspired creativity and storytelling across the globe.
Scrabble
Every letter counts in Scrabble! This much-loved board game consisting of interlocking words in crossword style has been around donkeys. It's basically a battle of wits and words as you try to form words on the board using seven letter tiles, each with their own value to earn points.
Hedbanz
This is a game where everybody knows the answer, except you. It is perfect for school going children and beyond. Each player wears a card on their head, it can be an animal, place or food, and you have to guess what you are by asking simple yes or no questions.
5 Second Rule
This game is perfect for people who are quick thinking. In this fast-paced and fun game, time is not on your side. Up for the challenge? Can you think of 3 breeds of dogs in five seconds as your opponents count down in a bid to see you fall flat on your face?
Connect 4
Another old school classic, it's a bit like Tic Tac Toe but more interactive and challenging. With this two-player game, there are very few rules. You simply drop yellow or red discs into the slot with the aim of getting four in a row in any direction.
Twister
Twister is a physical game played on a large plastic mat with an array of spots in different colours, and it's an energetic and upbeat game that will have everyone tied up in a knot, literally. The aim of the game is not to fall or let an elbow or knee touch the ground.