Ditch the Electronics: Rediscover the Joy of Old-School Cards & Board Games

In a world where screens are part of our daily routine—whether it’s work, school, or entertainment—it’s easy for the art of face-to-face connection to get lost. That’s why we’ve made it a priority in our home to disconnect from electronics every once in a while and reintroduce the timeless fun of board games and card games. Not only is it a way to bring the family together, but it also offers numerous benefits, from cognitive development to deepening relationships.

One of the greatest joys has been watching my kids embrace games they can truly get excited about—games that don’t involve pixels or buttons. Recently, my husband, Jimmy, started teaching our son, Owen, how to play chess. It was an exciting moment for Owen, especially because he saw it as having that “Game of Thrones” type of feel. It’s amazing to witness the way his mind is working through strategy and planning, all while having fun. It’s like a whole new world opening up!

And it’s not just for the kiddos—board games and card games are a great way for adults to bond. Whether you’re playing with your partner, your kids, or friends, these games create space for authentic connection and conversation—something that’s hard to come by when everyone is glued to their devices.

Here are a few of our favorite games to enjoy together as a family:

• Jenga - A classic game that tests your balance and steady hands! Buy on Amazon

• Large Jenga - The bigger, the better! Perfect for outdoor fun. Buy on Amazon

• Connect 4 - Simple but challenging—who can get four in a row first? Buy on Amazon

• Jumbo Outdoor 4 to Score - A giant version of the classic Connect 4, perfect for the backyard! Buy on Amazon

• Uno in Tin Storage - The classic card game that everyone loves to play! Buy on Amazon

• Ticket to Ride - For the older kids or adults, this game brings strategy and excitement. Buy on Amazon

• Rails and Sails - A step-up from Ticket to Ride for those looking for more challenge. Buy on Amazon

• Clue - Who done it? Perfect for a little mystery-solving fun. Buy on Amazon

• Scrabble - A word game that never gets old. Buy on Amazon

• Monopoly Junior - A simplified version of Monopoly for younger kids. Buy on Amazon

• Monopoly Classic - For the more experienced board game lovers, the classic never goes out of style. Buy on Amazon

• Chess - A timeless game of strategy that can be enjoyed by all ages. We love this particular set, it's handmade, affordable, and magnetic so the pieces don't get mixed up as easy. Buy on Amazon

It’s not always easy for my husband Jimmy and I to pull ourselves away from work and chores to play a game together without the kids. But we’ve been working on incorporating more of this into our time as a couple, especially on days when we aren’t out hiking. It’s a bit of a challenge to carve out that time just for us, but we’ve found it’s incredibly rewarding when we do.

Not only does playing board and card games foster meaningful interactions, but it also allows for moments of joy, creativity, and even a little bit of friendly competition. It’s something I’ve personally been trying to do more of, especially in the evenings when we would normally just default to screens. Sometimes, it can be easy to think that "free time" means turning on the TV or pulling out the phones, but I encourage you to try something different. Unplugging from the digital world—even if just for a little while—can lead to the most memorable moments.

In our home, we've really noticed the difference that taking time away from technology has made. Not only do we get to spend more quality time together, but it’s also a refreshing break for everyone. Plus, it feels good to revisit the classic games that bring so much nostalgia and fun.

So next time you're looking for something to do with your family or friends, consider grabbing a board or card game off the shelf. You might just rediscover a long-lost love for those timeless games, and you’ll be surprised at how much more engaged everyone is without the distractions of phones, tablets, or TVs. After all, sometimes the best way to connect is to go back to basics.