Board Games for Kids That Parents Actually Enjoy Too

Why family board games matter more than we think

As a parent, especially one trying to help a child manage learning difficulties or the daily stress of school, you likely spend much of your energy on logistics, routines, and emotional support. Amidst all this, it can feel impossible to carve out meaningful downtime that actually brings your family closer. This is where board games—often underestimated—can quietly transform your evenings.

Not just a distraction from homework battles or screen fatigue, the right board game can create connection, build skills, and unexpectedly, be something parents love just as much as kids. Especially when your child struggles at school, these shared experiences can be a gentle reminder that joy and play are vital forms of learning too.

Not just "kid games"—why shared enjoyment matters

It's easy to fall into the trap of choosing games solely based on what’s marketed to kids. These often include overly simplistic mechanics or repetitive gameplay that leaves adults disengaged. But parents deserve fun too—and believe it or not, there’s an entire category of kid-friendly games that are intelligently designed, beautifully illustrated, and equally engaging for grown-ups.

These are often games that:

• Allow strategic thinking without overwhelming rules
• Rely on teamwork or storytelling instead of pure competition
• Have flexible durations—it’s okay if your evening timeline is tight

For sensitive kids who may be put off by competition, there are even gentle, cooperative games that prioritize working toward shared goals. This not only reduces stress but models emotional resilience and communication in ways school rarely can.

Real play, real benefits

When kids who struggle with attention, reading, or school anxiety sit down for a board game, something surprising happens—they relax into learning. A well-chosen game can sneak in math, storytelling, planning, and decision-making, without the friction often triggered by worksheets or formal study.

For instance:

• Games like Outfoxed or Zombie Kidz build sequencing, memory, and cooperation
• Sushi Go and Dixit help with pattern recognition, vocabulary, and inference
• Games for kids with focus challenges can subtly support attention span and impulse control

It’s not just developmental. It’s emotional too. A child who's been grappling with self-esteem around academics—or who feels different because of a learning diagnosis—can feel powerful and capable once they master the nuances of a game. And when a parent is genuinely enjoying that experience with them? The emotional payoff is doubled.

Set up for success: small steps that matter

Integrating family games into already packed schedules might feel laughable at first. But the shift doesn’t need to be dramatic. Start small. Here are a few ideas:

• Pick one weeknight where screen-free family time includes a game instead of TV
• Keep a favorite game within reach in your living room with simple setup
• Create a cozy nook or mini game station—if you need inspiration, check out this step-by-step guide to making a game corner at home

The key is to make it inviting—not one more item on your to-do list. For some families, family game night quickly goes from a reluctant experiment to the week's most anticipated ritual.

Complement with other low-stress bonding moments

Games aren’t the only way to create ease and connection in the midst of academic or emotional challenges. Some evenings, especially when your child is overstimulated or overtired, sitting down for a board game might not be realistic. That’s completely okay.

iOS and Android versions of the LISN Kids App offer original audio series designed specifically for kids aged 3–12. With themes ranging from magical adventures to social-emotional learning, they can spark imagination and open up gentle conversations between you and your child.

Remember: Joy is part of resilience

When helping your child navigate the tricky years of elementary school—especially with added layers like ADHD, anxiety, or dyslexia—it’s easy to hyper-focus on remediation, tutoring, and managing meltdowns. But joy isn’t frivolous. It’s deeply therapeutic. And joy that’s shared between parent and child has a lasting impact.

Whether it’s through a 20-minute card game or a Saturday morning audiobook, building in small, real pockets of pleasure and fun teaches children that life isn’t just about overcoming struggles—it’s also about discovering what brings us together.

So the next time you pull out a board game, know this: It's more than play. It’s connection, confidence, and comfort—all wrapped in a box with dice.