Summer break is here! For kids, it’s a season of freedom and fun. For parents, it’s a time that calls for careful planning — juggling summer camps, activities, and that all-important ingredient: free play. As families map out the weeks ahead, it’s worth remembering how vital unstructured time and classic board games can be for children’s enjoyment and development.
The Planning Puzzle: Camps, Activities, and Free Play
With school out, parents face the challenge of filling long summer days. Summer camps and structured activities offer enrichment, skill-building, and social opportunities. But as Jonathan Haidt points out in The Anxious Generation, unstructured, device-free play is equally essential. Free play lets kids invent, negotiate, and resolve conflicts on their own — skills that are not so easily developed through screen time.
Why Free Play and Board Games Matter
Physical board games and card games are a fantastic way for kids to engage with one another in real life. Unlike solo screen time, these games encourage face-to-face communication, teamwork, and critical thinking. They also provide a natural setting for children to practice dispute resolution — who goes first, what happens if rules are unclear, and how to win or lose gracefully. These are foundational life skills, and board games are a fun, low-stakes way to develop them.
Striking a Balance: Screen Time vs. Real Life Play
Screens are a part of modern life, but summer can pose a challenge when it comes to striking a healthy balance. Encourage kids to swap some digital time for real-world play — whether it’s a neighborhood game of tag, a board game marathon, or a creative project. Research shows that kids who balance screen time with active, social play are happier and more resilient.
Family Game Nights = Lifelong Memories
Summer is also a great time to revive (or start!) family game nights, which can bridge generations, spark laughter, and create lasting memories. It’s a chance for parents, kids, and even grandparents to connect, compete, and collaborate.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, family-friendly game, check out Dot Duel: Deluxe Edition. It’s perfect for 2-6 players and ramps up the excitement with every round. For word lovers, Word Whiz brings crossword fun and quick thinking to your table, keeping everyone engaged and sharpening your language skills.
Want to dive deeper into the benefits? Check out our post on the cognitive and social benefits of family game nights.