Why you should play more games with your parents

When was the last time you played a game with your parents?

It’s easy to think we’re too old for that. Or too busy. Or that our parents aren’t interested in games anymore. But playing games together is one of the simplest ways to spend time with your parents. And you don’t need a special occasion to do it.

Games give you something to do together

One of the best things about playing a game with your parents is that you don’t have to plan much.

Pick a game and sit down together.

You have something to focus on and forget some of the pressure out of conversation. You can talk about the game, everything else, or not talk much at all.

It’s quality time together without having to make the time feel important.

Games create shared memories

Some of your favourite memories with your parents might involve games. A card game at the kitchen table, a board game on holiday, or a game night that got far too competitive.

Games create memories that stick around. Playing games as adults gives you a chance to build new memories together.

Maybe you finally beat your mum at backgammon, or your dad discovers he’s much better at strategy than anyone expected.

You might even find yourselves laughing about the same things you did years ago.

You can learn something new about each other

We tend to think we know our parents pretty well. But there’s something revealing about playing a game with someone.

You see how they make decisions, whether they take risks and become competitive or simply enjoy the game.

You might discover a side of each other you don’t usually see.

And because the game gives you something to react to, conversations often happen naturally along the way.

You don’t need to live nearby

Of course, playing games together is harder when your parents live in another city or country.

Online games make it possible to keep playing together from wherever you are. You don’t even have to be online at the same time.

With an asynchronous game, you can take your turn when you have a minute. Your parent can take theirs later. You might make a move over breakfast. They might respond that evening. You come back the next day and see what they played.

It’s a small shared activity that can fit into both of your lives.

What games can you play with your parents?

The best games to play with parents are usually ones that are easy to start but still give you something to think about.

Card games, board games, word games and strategy games are all good options. If you’re playing online, turn-based games are particularly useful because you don’t need to coordinate your schedules.

Backgammon is a great example.

The basic rules are easy to learn, but there’s plenty of strategy once you get into it. Every game is different, and a little luck keeps things interesting.

Most importantly, you can play one move at a time.

Make it a little tradition

As life gets busier, staying connected with your parents can become something you have to make an effort to do. A game gives you an easy reason to reach out without needing a reason.

It’s not about how often you play.

It’s about having something that belongs to the two of you.

No big plans. No long conversation required.