Using board games in therapy, at home, or at school can help kids build social skills. Depending on the age, board games can help foster skills such as turn taking, distress tolerance, cooperation, empathy, managing emotions, critical thinking skills and communication strategies. Here are some common board games and how playing them with kids and teens can help build and improve social skills.
1. Jenga
This classic game teaches patience, focus, problem solving and managing excitement and disappointment. You can also pair this game with question cards to get more in depth communication going.
2. Charades
This is a classic game you don’t even have to purchase. This game involves critical thinking skills, reading non-verbal communication and body language, creativity and empathy. Bonus points if you play emotion charades!
3. Uno
You have to pay attention in Uno – each card is different and with being able to switch directions or call someone out because they didn’t say “Uno!” it helps kids with focusing and details. There is also some strategy involved with Uno which can help with critical thinking skills. All these skills can help in social situations.
4. Apples to Apples
Best for more than 2 players, this game involves creativity while building skills around perspective taking and building empathy. Players have to think about what other’s preferences and sense of humor will be like, and it can help build language skills.
5. Sussed?
This game is great as it is not very competitive and you don’t need to keep score. It is a great way to learn about others as well as to get fun conversations going. This game is great for socializing but also good for connection and can be used on car rides.
