When raising children, there is no better feeling than creating a strong bond with your offspring. Spending quality time together can help boost their wellbeing and development, and you’ll form a connection like no other. One of the best ways to strengthen your relationship is by doing activities together, so here are some of the best games you can play with your children.

Football

For many families, there is nothing quite like getting outdoors and playing a game of football, or soccer for our readers across the Atlantic. Depending on the age of your kids, football can increase cardiovascular health, build strength, endurance, and flexibility, and enhance bone and muscle strength. Not only is football a great way to keep the family active, but your children will also learn the importance of teamwork. If you’ve been cooped up indoors due to the coronavirus pandemic, hitting a football field and playing a game with your kids can reduce any stress you are feeling.

Table Tennis

If you’re currently having to isolate due to the pandemic and are looking at ways to keep your children stimulated, something like table tennis can be played at home without having to go outside. Playing table tennis can improve hand-eye coordination, burn calories, as well as improve reflexes. Table tennis can also keep your brain sharp and improve balance. This game is highly competitive, though, so make sure your kids are aware before playing, otherwise you could be dealing with tantrums at the end!

Basketball

The whole family can benefit from playing basketball together. This game is a whole-body workout, meaning it’s excellent for muscle development. What’s more, basketball teaches your children the importance of sportsmanship, which is something they can carry with them through to adulthood. If you live near to a basketball court, taking the kids out for the day and playing a game can boost social development, teamwork skills, and teach your kids the importance of respecting authority.

Indoor Bowling

Cast your mind back to your childhood. If you’re one of many who would hit the bowling alley on a Saturday, you will remember the joy of knocking all the skittles down. When children come along, you can be sure they will love the game just as much, so taking them out for a fun-filled day is a sure-fire way to provide excitement and entertainment. If you don’t live close to a bowling alley, you can play indoor bowling at home. All you will need is plenty of space to create a bowling lane, as well as items like plastic cups or empty water bottles to act as pins.

Baseball

It’s estimated that over 15 million people play baseball in the United States. If you’re after an activity that improves health, coordination, and mental stimulation, look no further than baseball. The sport encourages teamwork, builds confidence, and promotes family involvement, meaning no matter the age of your kids, baseball is sure to be a hit. In the UK you might prefer a game of rounders, we love it!

Yoga

Yoga games are an excellent way to get your children moving, working together, and boosting their communication skills. Children get stressed just like adults do, so using a relaxation technique like yoga can bring stress levels down and keep your kids happy and content. There are lots of yoga games tailored towards children that let them learn new poses and increase their flexibility and balance. Spending 30 minutes each day practicing yoga together can relieve tension and stress.

Regular exercise is not only beneficial for your child’s health and wellbeing, but your own too. There are tons of fun games and sports the whole family can join in on which will strengthen your bond and help you to create everlasting memories.