Here are some of my ideas on how games/puzzles help my family bond:

1) By sitting and spending time together while playing games/puzzles, family members will get to know each other better.

Sometimes when we are busy wrapped up in our own little worlds, we don't realise that our children have grown taller or even have developed pimples on their faces. We also don't know their problems in school if we don't make the time to sit and listen to them.

2) Games/puzzles can create a competitive environment for the children.

Having a competitive environment at home need not be a bad thing - children learn to improve themselves and that defeat is just temporary. They can also learn to pick themselves up and go on after losing at a game.

You could even pair up a father-daughter and mother-son to play in teams. The winning team might be accorded certain privileges. For example, they might be excluded from having to do household chores for one weekend.

3) Games and puzzles help to bring children closer to parents.

Children will be happier when they can play, talk and communicate with their parents. During games, they can do all of these simultaneously.

4) Parents can use games/puzzles to teach kids moral values.

Children need to learn about taking turns and helping their siblings while they are playing the games/puzzles. This is the perfect chance for parents to teach their kids these values.

Nuradyani Rosly