Family Game Night: Our Favorite Picks for Families with Kids Ages 8-12

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

While we are not always successful, we do try to hold a family game night from time to time. As I am sure happens with you, things do not always go as planned. However, game nights are so much fun and a very easy way to destress and connect as a family. We really should plan them more regularly! Of course, the unplanned game nights are probably the most relished!

Pieces from Triominos, Scrambled States and Made for Trade.

In some ways, playing games has become much more enjoyable as our daughter has grown. The games can be a bit more challenging which gives us a little more satisfaction when playing. We are all up for a challenge! There are only so many times you can play Candyland. However, these games seem to each be a little different each time you play them so you don't get bored.

What games do you love to play with your kids? Here are some of our current favorites:

• Castle Keep: Love, love, love this game! When you first take the game pieces from the box, you will think the game is simple. However, there is quite a bit of strategy needed to make your castle and keep it from being torn down by other players. The instructions might take a turn or two to get through, but it is worth it!
• Triominos: I originally began playing Triominos while visiting my grandparents when I as about my daughter's age. Fast forward way much more time than I will ever admit and my daughter was also hooked after playing with my grandparents. To play, you must match up number patterns using a set of numbers on triangles. The game definitely elicits plenty of laughs as players inevitably attempt to match up numbers that are in reverse order.
• Monopoly: Monopoly and its various reincarnations can be very fun or it can be very drawn out if you do not put a cap on the time. My daughter will literally play to the bitter end. But, it is fun to see how players strategize.
• Made for Trade: Made for Trade is a recent addition to our normal round up. The game is based on Colonial America and has several different ways of playing. In general, players collect items that their characters would have needed back in colonial times. The game adds a lot of facts about the colonies. They are pretty quick facts, so you don't get bogged down! Yay! The game does take awhile to play, so you do need some time. But, it really adds a little more to game night.
• Uno: Uno is a great quickish game to play. I say quickish because from time to time no one seems capable of getting the right cards so the game goes on....and on....and on. A real good upside to Uno--it is portable so makes of an excellent choice when on the road!
• Jenga: Who doesn't love Jenga? Jenga is part strategy and skill along with a bit of chance. It is easy to clean up. I actually love to pull this one out when daughter has a friend over as well. Amusing and easy!
• Scrambled States of America: The Scrambled States of America is quick paced and jovial game. We enjoy playing it as a family and it is also a favorite at play dates. Plus, it is great for helping kids learn geography, state capitals and nicknames.

Ready to plan your next game night yet? I am hoping that my daughter doesn't have much homework tonight so we can whip one out......