You are never too old to enjoy a family game night and what better way to get everyone involved than with a board game.

They may be old school, but they help to teach children a wealth of skills other than the simple fun element they bring.

Everything from following rules, to taking in turns and even counting, games are a brilliant way for members of the family to cut off from their busy schedules and really enjoy the simple things in life.

Here is a selection of fun board games, which we know you’ll just want to play over and over:

Snakes and Ladders

The classic snakes and ladders game has been adapted overtime yet still brings with it simple rules and classic memories.

Teaching children to add up dice, count spaces and accept that when you do land on a slimy snakehead you may not like the result, are all lessons that we can relate to in life. Ok, well maybe not the snakehead!

This game is good for reminding us that life does not always bring rewards, but often unexpected and unpleasant consequences.

Connect Four

This ‘vertical’ board game is a two-person game, which gives children the chance to practice taking turns, learning colours and counting.  It is a simple concept yet fast-paced, which means it won’t take long for everyone to have a go.

• Picture books to help with starting school
• Getting kids active

HedBanz

HedBanz is a classical guess who am I game where players wear a headband that displays the name of a famous person or character, an animal, something you eat or even a fun activity.

Each person takes turns to ask simple questions in an effort to become a detective and determine who they are.

Kids love using their reasoning skills and making connections.  You are bound to have a lot of laughs with this one.

Scrabble

Scrabble games are not only for adults, there are junior versions too, which are age appropriate and tailored to little minds that are just learning to spell.

Some versions also come with a pre-designed board where preschoolers have fun matching the letter tiles to the board.

Who ever said learning your ABCs was boring?

Variety for all ages

Games take many forms and can be adjustable for all ages.  Card games such as Snap and Go Fish are great for kids, strategy games including Checkers teach school-aged children to think ahead, plan and anticipate, and puzzle games like the classical tic-tac-toe are timeless.

Having a regular family game night is something everyone should consider organising. It can become a fun tradition, which helps to bring the family together and certainly goes a long way to learning to connect with one another in new ways.

Turn off the television, close the laptop and put iPads to sleep and dust off a board game this weekend.

With the right game, it can be really fun for everyone. If you are looking for something new to add to your collection, check out the huge range of board games on Gumtree and Amazon.

There’s bound to be a bargain and a whole load of fun to be had at your home.

Do you and your family play board games? Which ones? Share in the comments below.

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