Image by Rudy Anderson from Pixabay
In a previous post, I wrote about about how families don’t play together like they used to. Computer games and smart phone games have taken over. Fun activities, such as board games, have taken a “backseat.” In some households I doubt people even have board games anymore.
If you are interested in reading that post, you can find it here – Cherish Family Time with Hand-crafted Board Games from Across the Board.
My kids are older now (in their 20’s), but I do work with children. I am the site director for a program catering to children from 5-12 years old. That is a huge age difference, and it’s not always easy for me to find games and activities that they can all enjoy together, or at the very least a huge chunk of them.
I prefer not to spend too much money on supplies for games and activities too. I’m not being “cheap,” but I do have a monthly budget I need to stick to. The funds I’m allotted not only cover games and activities, but also other supplies (markers, crayons, paper…) and snacks. Buying snacks and fresh produce for 20+ kids each day can get expensive.
I also look for games and activities that several kids can play together, or the entire group. Having to take turns playing a game can sometimes lead to arguments and tears. The more kids that can play together, the better.
I was recently sent a book to review that is filled with plenty of ideas that I can apply to the kids at work. It’s geared towards parents, but honestly, most of the games and activities I see in the book can be used in a group setting as well.
The book is called Play Together. It was written by Laura Haver.
Laura Haver is a play, happiness and communication expert, author, speaker and life design coach. She has helped hundreds of individuals and families to experience more play, growth and inspiration in their lives. Laura is the founder of Author Moms (a community that connects, supports and inspires fellow writing moms) and Alchemy of Fun (a community for busy women who want to bring more fun, fulfillment and magic into their lives). She has been featured on the Today Show, CBS, Fox and more. She has over 25 years coaching experience in leadership, life design and tennis (for both children and adults). Laura lives in San Diego with her husband and two sons. Visit laurahaver.com for more information.
Here is some more information, as per the press release I have.
Ever wish life (and parenting) was more fun? Stop wondering what to do with your kids and instead begin to play together. You’ll be amazed at the wonder these games open up in you and your family’s lives.
Play Together features over 60 of the best games and activities for children 12 and under aimed at promoting happiness, communication skills, healthy movement, increased emotional intelligence and more.
Play is one of the best parts of being a kid, stimulating healthy development and providing wonderful benefits that you and your children will enjoy for years to come. Plus it’s simple! Most games are screen-free and can be played in under 10 minutes using materials you already have on hand… or just your imagination!
Some of the games featured include:
- Marble Mania Madness
- 3-2-1… Freeze!
- The What If? Imagination Game
- Cardboard Creations
- Snap-A-Letter Scavenger Hunt
- Make Your Own Puzzle
- DJ Art
- Play Heart Art Journal
- Rainbow Breathing
- Floor Pong and more!
Play Together also includes helpful game hints, prompts to stimulate family conversations, and fun anecdotes from play expert Laura Haver on her own experiences creating and play-testing each of the games. Perfect for anyone looking to add more fun into their lives, Play Together will provide you and your children with endless hours of enjoyment and bring you closer together as a family.
Play Together is a paperback book chuck full of fun ideas that I have never heard of before, and trust me, I am always on Google and Pinterest looking for ideas to do with my “work kids.”
I love that the games and activities are easy to do and understand, and require very little supplies, if not at all.
Here are a few pages from the book to give you an idea.
The book is divided up into different sections;
- Let’s Begin (Introduction)
- Let’s Play (games)
- Let’s Learn
- Bonus Fun
I have several pages in this book “dog earred,” and I’m not even done reading from cover to cover yet. I found so many ideas to use with my “work kids.” This book is going to be a huge help for me this upcoming school year.
As a parent, I see a lot of value in this book. I wish I had something like this when my kids were little. It would have helped me keep my own kids happy and engaged.
I’m not the only one who appreciates this book. Here are what others think about this book.
“…an inspired collection of games, harnessing the power of play to help families have more fun while also building important life skills.” —Matt Weinstein, founder of Playfair, Inc., bestselling author and dubbed “The Master of Playfulness” by PEOPLE Magazine
“…a must for any parent looking for more meaningful and joyful connections with the children in their lives.” —Kasey Mathews, transformational life coach and author of Preemie: Lessons in Love, Life and Motherhood
“…a must-have book for any adult wanting to nourish one of the greatest gifts of childhood—play.” —Cheryl Peterson, Ph.D., instructor and author of IDEAS and Because of 4
“…an exciting and inspiring book that is a fantastic tool, guiding adults to think outside the box about how we engage in quality fun with our kids.” —Erica Spiegelman, counselor and author of Rewired and The Rewired Life
“I love that Play Together focuses on simple activities with materials you likely already have at home, and that the activities don’t require a ton of adult preparation.” —Alanna Gallo, founder of Play. Learn. Thrive.
The book will be available for purchase on August 22, 2023 where ever books are sold.
Kimberly
*I received an advance copy of the book in order to do this review. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.
