Hosting a game night for kids can be both exciting and a little daunting. Striking the right balance between entertainment and engagement is key to ensuring that the little ones have a blast. With the right preparation, a dash of creativity, and some smart planning, you can host a game night that kids will remember for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned host or a first-timer, our guide offers 10 essential tips to make your event a hit. Discover how you can transform an ordinary evening into a magical experience with our top 10 tips and tricks.
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Top Tips For Hosting A Game Night
1. Choose Age-Appropriate Games
Selecting the right games is the foundation of a successful game night. The key is to choose games that are suitable for the age group of the children attending. Younger kids might enjoy simple, interactive games like ‘Musical Chairs' or ‘Duck, Duck, Goose,' while older children may prefer more strategic board games like ‘Monopoly Junior' or ‘The Game of Life.' It's important to have a mix of games that cater to different interests and abilities, ensuring that every child feels included and engaged. Amazon offers a wide variety of games suitable for all ages, making it easy to find the perfect options.
2. Create A Comfortable And Inviting Space
The atmosphere you create can make or break your game night. Transform your living room or play area into a cosy, inviting space where kids feel comfortable and excited to play. Use soft cushions, colourful rugs, and low tables to set the scene. Consider setting up different playstations around the room, each dedicated to a different game or activity. This allows children to move around and explore different games at their own pace. Lighting is also crucial; opt for warm, ambient lighting to create a relaxed vibe. Don't forget to decorate with a few themed elements to add a touch of fun—think balloons, streamers, or even a themed backdrop.
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3. Plan A Fun Snack Menu
No game night is complete without snacks! Plan a kid-friendly menu that's both tasty and easy to eat. Think finger foods like mini sandwiches, popcorn, fruit kebabs, and cheese sticks. You can also include a few sweet treats like cupcakes or cookies decorated in the theme of the night. Make sure to cater to any dietary restrictions and have a variety of options available. Setting up a snack station where kids can help themselves is a great idea, as it keeps them fuelled throughout the evening.
5. Incorporate Themed Games
A themed game night can take the excitement to the next level. Whether it's a pirate adventure, superhero showdown, or a princess tea party, incorporating themed games adds a creative twist to the evening. Choose games that align with your theme—like a treasure hunt for a pirate theme or a fashion show for a princess party. Themed decorations, costumes, and props can further enhance the experience, making it feel like a fully immersive event.
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6. Involve The Kids In The Planning
One way to ensure the kids are excited about game night is to involve them in the planning process. Let them choose some of the games, snacks, or even the theme. When children have a say in the planning, they're more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about the event. You can also assign them small tasks, like setting up the game stations or helping with decorations. This not only makes them feel important but also teaches them about responsibility and teamwork. Plus, involving the kids in the planning can spark their creativity, leading to new ideas that could make the night even more special.
7. Offer Prizes And Rewards
Adding an element of competition can make the game night even more thrilling. Consider offering small prizes or rewards for winners, such as stickers, toys, or certificates. However, it's important to ensure that the competition remains friendly and that every child feels like a winner. You might offer consolation prizes for participation or have a group reward at the end of the night. Prizes don't have to be extravagant; even simple tokens can add an extra layer of excitement and motivation. Amazon has a great selection of affordable prizes and toys that can add a special touch to your game night.
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8. Keep A Flexible Schedule
While it's good to have a plan, flexibility is key when hosting a game night for kids. Sometimes, the best moments happen spontaneously. Be prepared to switch things up if a game isn't going well or if the kids seem restless. Having a backup plan or a few extra games on hand can be a lifesaver. It's also important to keep the event's energy levels in mind—alternate between high-energy games and more relaxed ones to keep the kids engaged without wearing them out. A flexible approach allows you to adapt to the kids' moods and interests, ensuring that the fun never stops.
9. Capture The Memories
Don't forget to capture the special moments from your game night. Taking photos or videos allows you to preserve the memories and share them with the kids and their families later on. You can even set up a DIY photo booth with props that match your theme—kids will love posing with their friends and seeing the pictures afterwards. These keepsakes can be a fun way for the kids to remember the event and the good times they had.
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10. End With A Special Activity
To wrap up the night, consider ending with a special activity that brings everyone together. This could be a group game, a storytelling session, or even a short movie that ties into your theme. Ending the night on a high note ensures that the kids leave with a smile on their faces, excited to come back for the next game night. A calm, cool-down activity is also a great way to help the kids wind down before they head home. Remember, the goal is to create a memorable experience, so take the time to plan an ending that leaves a lasting impression.
Top Myntra And Amazon Deals On Toys And Games
1. Funskool Games, Strike 4, Classic Disc Dropping Game
Discount: 20% | Price: ₹397 | M.R.P.: ₹499 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
A classic two-player game that's perfect for children aged six and above. Strike 4 is a fun and strategic disc-dropping game where players take turns dropping colored discs into a grid, aiming to get four in a row while blocking their opponent. It's easy to learn but challenging to master, making it ideal for family game nights. This game enhances strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way.
2. Asmodee Funskool Games - Dobble, Strategy Game
Discount: 29% | Price: ₹353 | M.R.P.: ₹499 | Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Dobble is a fast-paced card game that's all about speed, observation, and reflexes. Suitable for ages six and above, this game can be played by 2-8 players, making it perfect for larger groups. With five different mini-games in one, Dobble keeps the excitement going and ensures that no two rounds are the same. It's a versatile game that can quickly become a family favourite.
3. CHOCOZONE Football Table Soccer Game With 4 Rods
Discount: 50% | Price: ₹1499 | M.R.P.: ₹2999 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This mini foosball table brings the excitement of soccer indoors. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it's a sturdy and stable game that offers hours of competitive fun. The game is designed to withstand intense play, making it an excellent addition to any game night. Its realistic gameplay allows players to experience the thrill of scoring goals and defending against their opponents.
4. Funskool Games, Othello, Strategy Game
Discount: 17% | Price: ₹499 | M.R.P.: ₹599 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Othello is a timeless strategy game that's easy to learn but challenging to master. Suitable for kids aged eight and above, this game requires players to flip their opponent's discs to dominate the board. With each move potentially changing the game's outcome, Othello keeps players on their toes and encourages strategic thinking. It's a game that's perfect for family members who enjoy a good mental challenge.
5. Mattel Games Blokus Board Game
Discount: 41% | Price: ₹589 | M.R.P.: ₹999 | Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Blokus is a vibrant and engaging game that can be played by 2-4 players simultaneously. Each player gets 21 pieces of different shapes and takes turns placing them on the board, ensuring that each new piece touches at least one other piece of the same colour, but only at the corners. This game promotes creative and strategic thinking while being simple enough for younger players to enjoy.
6. PRIME DEALS Wooden Blocks - 51 Pcs, 4 Dice Building Blocks Game
Discount: 60% | Price: ₹398 | M.R.P.: ₹999 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This wooden block stacking game is a classic that never goes out of style. It's easy to play but challenging enough to keep everyone engaged. Players take turns removing blocks from the tower and stacking them on top, trying not to topple the structure. This game enhances hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking, making it a great choice for kids and adults alike.
7. Skillmatics Card Game - Guess In 10 Countries of The World
Discount: 5% | Price: ₹332.50 | M.R.P.: ₹350 | Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
This trivia game is perfect for kids who love to learn while they play. Players take turns asking up to 10 questions to guess the country on the card, using clues and bonus questions to outsmart their opponents. Suitable for ages 8 and up, this game can be played by 2-6 players, making it ideal for family game nights. It's a fun and educational way to enhance knowledge about different countries around the world.
8. OPINA Kids Foldable Magnetic Chess Board Set
Discount: 23% | Price: ₹998 | M.R.P.: ₹1299 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This magnetic chess board set is perfect for teaching kids the classic game of chess. The foldable design makes it easy to store and carry, while the magnetic pieces ensure that the game stays in place during play. Chess is a great way to develop strategic thinking and patience, making it an excellent addition to any game night. Suitable for kids aged 6 and above, this set offers a fun and educational challenge.
9. Chocozone Mini Table Games Balance Ice Cubes Save Penguin Icebreaker
Discount: 38% | Price: ₹498 | M.R.P.: ₹799 | Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
This fun and interactive game is perfect for younger kids. Players take turns removing ice cubes from a platform without letting the penguin fall. It's a game of strategy and skill that can be enjoyed by kids aged 5 and above. The game's simple rules make it easy to play, while the challenge of keeping the penguin safe adds excitement to each turn.
Hosting the ultimate game night for kids is all about thoughtful planning, creative ideas, and ensuring that every child feels included and engaged. By following these top 10 tips and tricks, you can create an unforgettable experience that will have the kids (and their parents) talking for weeks. From selecting the right games to creating a cosy atmosphere and offering fun prizes, every detail contributes to the success of your event. Shop now on Amazon and Myntra.
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