Remember when “family game night” meant pulling Sorry! out of the closet, realizing two pieces were missing, and spending half the night arguing about who cheated? Yeah, us too.

But something magical happens when you find the right game for your kids — the one that clicks, holds their attention, and maybe even sparks a little friendly competition. The trick is figuring out how to get there without turning it into homework.

Start with stories, not rules

Most kids don’t care about mechanics or strategy. They care about adventure. They want to feel like they’re part of a world, not trapped in a math problem disguised as fun.

Games like Outfoxed! or Sleeping Queens sneak in counting and logic, but they’re wrapped in stories that make sense to kids. There’s a mission, a mystery, or a dragon somewhere — and that’s what keeps them playing.

Keep it short (for everyone’s sanity)

Attention spans are … well, let’s just say they vary. Start with games that play in under 20 minutes. Let them win sometimes (yes, really).

The point isn’t to finish the game — it’s to make sure they want to play again next week.

Pick the right level of chaos

Every family has its own energy. Some thrive on noise and laughter. Others prefer a calmer vibe.

If your crew loves to joke and shout, go for party-style games like Throw Throw Burrito or Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza.

If you’ve got quiet thinkers, something like Dragonwood or Qwirkle hits the sweet spot — simple moves, colorful pieces, just enough strategy to feel grown-up.

Make it feel like an event

Pizza night? Perfect excuse for a game. Lazy Sunday afternoon? Build a mini tournament.

The more you build routine around it, the more kids will look forward to it. Before long, they’ll be the ones asking, “Can we play tonight?”

Guru tip: let them be the ones to pick the game or set up the board. A little ownership goes a long way.

Be patient with the rules

You know that moment when you realize you’ve been explaining for ten minutes and nobody’s listening? Yeah, we’ve all been there.

Skip the deep dive. Learn as you play. Let them make mistakes. Half the fun is watching them figure it out — and sometimes, they’ll find new “house rules” that actually make the game better.

Celebrate the small wins

You’re not trying to raise a future grand champion (unless you are, in which case, teach them Catan early). You’re trying to make memories.

Celebrate good moves, funny moments, and creative chaos. Keep it light, keep it fun, and soon game night will feel less like “family bonding” and more like the best part of the week.