Family Games Day Ideas: Fun Board Games for Kids, Teens & Adults
Read all about our Family Games Day along with our honest game reviews –
After featuring a Family Games Day in the magazine, we put a whole range of games to the test at home, with family, cousins and friends of all ages. Some were calm, some chaotic, some surprised me, and a few became instant favourites. Here’s our honest take on what worked, who each game is best for, and how the age recommendations stacked up in real life.
Don’t Wake Dad (Age 5+)
For the little kids, we tried Don’t Wake Dad. This went down well when my daughter and I played together, but not so much when she played with her older cousins. We liked it because it’s easy, funny, and not over too quickly (Dad gets woken up a lot!). While I liked that it didn’t end in a flash, this was exactly what her older cousins didn’t enjoy. I think very young children could also get frustrated by having to go back to the start repeatedly – and as it’s recommended age 5+, I’d agree with that. When I invited some of my daughter’s friends over, this was one of their first picks… so that’s a win!
The Floor Is Lava (Age 5+)
For kids who simply cannot sit still, The Floor Is Lava was a big hit. I’d always avoided buying it, thinking cushions at home do the same job – and we do! But this is much more of a proper game. It tells you where you’re allowed to step, gradually removes stepping stones, and adds challenges along the way.
I’d agree with the 5+ age guide, and even younger children could join in with supervision – just watch for slipping. It was a favourite with my daughter and her friends, and even older cousins didn’t mind joining in.
Swallow Your Words (Age 8+)
For laugh-out-loud fun, Swallow Your Words is pure chaos (or can be if you’re not careful) – grab bowls, towels, mark out a splash zone and enjoy! The aim of the game is taking it in turns to say something while you have water in your mouth, and for the others to guess what you are saying. You can make it easier by just having a little bit of water in your mouth, or make it harder and keep adding more water in! The hardest bit in our opinion, is trying not to get the giggles! But this is the bit that gives you the memories.
I’d fully agree with the 8+ age recommendation, any younger and they’ll just swallow, possibly choke a bit, or soak themselves completely.
Marshmallow Madness (Age 8+)
Have a break, enjoy lunch and follow that with Marshmallow Madness for dessert. I worried the kids would eat far too many marshmallows, but it’s actually harder than it looks, so it’s okay in that sense. The 8+ rating feels about right, we had one 8-year-old struggle and another smash it. A 5-year-old joined in, enjoyed himself, got a bit frustrated… but he got marshmallows, so he was happy!
Guess in 10 – Harry Potter Edition (Age 8+)
We tried the Harry Potter version of Guess in 10. I liked this because it’s more challenging than similar games, featuring characters like Petunia Dursley and Dean Thomas (everyone knows the main characters, but how well do you know the rest!).
The age rating really depends on the theme, unless you’re a serious Harry Potter fan, all ages might struggle! I’m tempted to buy the Countries/Cities of the World version next to help my daughter learn more about the world and what we can enjoy in travels together in the future. In the meantime, I definitely need to rewatch the Harry Potter films (and actually let my daughter watch them all)… then get this back out!
5 Second Rule Mini (Age 8+)
Fast-paced fun that gets you thinking without being too hard. Although it’s rated 8+, I think younger kids can join in if you pick suitable cards – things like “name 3 superheroes” or “name 3 things in a bathroom” work really well.
Bonus Tip We tried the 5 Second Rule Mini version, ideal for holidays, days out, or throwing in a bag.
Rapid Rumble (Age 6+)
Similar to 5 Second Rule: Fast-paced fun that gets you thinking, but with the added twist that answers must start with a certain letter. While rated 6+, we found it a little tricky for younger children, my 8-year-old couldn’t manage it as well as others, but it’s excellent for word practice and quick thinking, and it was one the whole family enjoyed, so it will certainly be played again.
Triominos (Age 6+)
At first glance, Triominos looked a bit boring, but it’s probably the game we’ll play long-term. It’s dominoes with three sides – all kids know dominoes, all grandparents like them, so this was a hit. I’d agree with 6+: play dominoes with little ones first, then upgrade once they’re more confident with numbers. We’re currently playing without scoring, but you can level it up once you’re confident.
Traitors (Age 12+)
And finally… when the little kids are in bed and you have your grown up friends over, or if when your kids are bigger and you don’t know what to do with them anymore! It’s great fun, and a challenge, and has multiple scenarios so it stays fresh. Back to getting the giggles, it’s SO hard keeping a poker face! Good luck! It works even if you don’t watch the show, I played it before watching the TV series (but it did tempt me to watch afterwards). And of course, for anyone who loves the show, they’ll be excited to give it a go!
I’d agree with the 12+ rating – younger children probably wouldn’t sit or concentrate long enough. That said, my daughter gave it a good go. You can shorten the game by playing fewer phases, which helps.
Final Thoughts
There really is something for everyone – toddlers to grandparents, quiet players to energetic ones. A Family Games Day (or friends game day) doesn’t need to be perfect or competitive. It just needs time, laughter, and a reminder (for adults and kids alike!) that it’s just a game 😂 Liaise with your extended family and friends, so you have a good collection between you – save you all buying the same ones!
Found out more about these games here:
Goliath: Where Innovation Lives – Games & Toys
Skillmatics: Award-winning family games and educational toys
