Board games are one of the few things that still get the whole family away from screens and actually talking to each other. The picks here cover everything from quick card games for younger kids to deeper strategy games for tweens and teens who are ready for a real challenge.

Every game on this site gets picked the same way: would it actually get played more than twice, and is it worth the shelf space?

family board games on table

How to Play Board Games with Mixed Ages: A Parent's Guide to Family Game Night That Works for Everyone

Kids aged 5 and teens at the same table? Here’s how to choose and adapt board games so every age stays engaged and no one feels left out.

August 18, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

How Board Games Teach Kids to Lose Gracefully (And Why It Matters)

Tired of game-night meltdowns? Learn how board games build emotional resilience in kids — and how parents can help the process along.

August 11, 2026 · 8 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

Why Board Games Are Good for Kids: What the Research Actually Says

From math skills to emotional regulation, research shows board games do a lot more for kids than just pass the time. Here’s what parents should know.

August 4, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

How to Pick the Right Board Game for Your Child: A Parent's Practical Guide

Not sure which board game to buy your kid? This guide walks parents through game length, complexity, theme, and age ratings so you choose right every time.

July 14, 2026 · 8 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

How to Start a Family Game Night That Everyone Actually Enjoys

Practical tips to launch a family game night that sticks — from picking the right games to keeping teens engaged and handling tough losses.

June 16, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

Is Your Child Ready for Strategy Board Games? Signs to Watch For by Age

Learn the key developmental signs that show your child is ready for strategy board games, from early planners to teen-level thinkers.

June 9, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

Screen Time vs. Board Games: What the Research Actually Says for Kids

Wondering how screen time and board games really compare for your kids? Here’s what child development research and pediatricians actually say.

June 2, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

An Age-by-Age Guide to Introducing Board Games to Kids

From toddlers to teens, here’s exactly when and how to introduce board games at every stage of your child’s development.

May 19, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family board games on table

Cooperative vs Competitive Board Games: Which Is Better for Kids?

Science-backed guide for parents on cooperative vs competitive board games — what each type teaches kids and how to balance both at home.

May 11, 2026 · 7 min · Family Game Lab
family playing CATAN board game at kitchen table, kids ages 10 and up

10 Best Board Games for Ages 10 and Up in 2026

From CATAN to Codenames, the 10 best board games for kids 10+ picked for strategy, laughs, and real family replay value.

May 11, 2026 · 16 min · Family Game Lab