Name: Grand Rapids Kids
Address: Grand Rapids, MI

Kid & Family Board Games Worth Playing Again and Again

When you’re looking for things to do with kids, it usually involves leaving the house. But what about that all-important time together at home?

We all love the idea of family game night—everyone laughing, bonding, forgetting about screens for a bit. But actually getting the kids (and sometimes even the adults) interested?

That’s the trick.

We’ve rounded up some unique, family-friendly games you might not know about but should definitely try. (We’ve included some classics, too.) Who knows, they might even keep everyone’s attention for more than ten minutes. (Fingers crossed!)

And if you want to skip the stores, we’ve included links so you can shop right from home!

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Quick Tips for Choosing The Right Game

Before you begin, consider a few things:

Age Range: Who’s playing? Make sure it’s age-appropriate for everyone.
Game Length: Short enough for little attention spans, but not boring for older players
Replayability: Good games can be played again and again without losing the fun.
Complexity: Not too easy, but not so hard you’re left scratching your head.

Best Family Board Games for Kids, by Age

PRO TIP: Use the search bar to quickly filter results by toddler, preschool, etc.

Hosting the Ultimate Family Game Night

Buckle up! The board game scene is nothing like it was when you were younger.

Today’s board games are better than ever, and we’ve got everything you need to make family game night a hit!

Here’s how to keep it fun, stress-free, and screen-free:

#1- Let the Kids Pick the Game

Kids love having a say, so let each child pick a game—even if it’s Chutes and Ladders …again.

Pro tip: if you need a break from a certain game, “hide” it before game time!

#2- Set a Time Limit for Younger Kids

Little kids get cranky if things run too long. Set a clear time limit (like 7-8 PM) so they know what to expect.

Pro Tip: Prioritize game night in your schedule so it actually happens!

#3- Invite Older Kids, (and Grandparents!)

With busy schedules, it’s hard to get everyone at home at the same time. Give older kids a heads-up so you’re not springing it on them at the last minute.

Invite grandparents, another family or friends to make it extra special.

#4- Do Some Game Night Prep

Finish baths and get little kids in pajamas beforehand, and prep snacks or pop popcorn early.

Older kids? Get them involved with snack duty—they’ll love picking the right munchies

#5- Ditch the Screens

Make game night a no-phone zone to keep everyone focused.

Park devices in another room, ringers off, so it’s truly family time.

#6- It’s Okay to Let the Kids Win, and It’s Okay to for Adults to Win, Too.

Sometimes let the kids win, sometimes don’t—it’s all about balance. Gauge their mood and give them space to try their own strategies, and hold back on advice unless asked.

There are so many life lessons waiting in Family Game Night!

West Michigan Family Board Game Stores

While online shopping is easy, Grand Rapids has some fantastic local stores with a great selection of board games for kids. Your local library is a great place to start when looking for board games.

Check out Blue Bridge Games on East Fulton, Vault of Midnight on Monroe Center, Schuler Books on 28th St, or even Target.

We love supporting local shops—they know their games, are happy to help, and can recommend the perfect pick for your family.

Here’s where to find the best family board games in West Michigan: