by Riley Burfeind, AmeriCorps VISTA Community Engagement Coordinator
On Friday, April 26th, USES hosted a Family Game Night where families across our programs came together to participate in a variety of collaborative, educational, and active games! Stations around the room included activities such as Twister, Apples to Apples, Storytelling Cards, Pictionary, Puzzles, Tic TAC Toe, and more. All attendees enjoyed pizza and salad from Nicole’s, and received a takeaway handout upon arrival with detailed descriptions and instructions for each game station. Game Night allowed kids and their parents/caregivers to build stronger connections with each other, while working together to accomplish shared goals.
Research shows that children who practice good sportsmanship, effective communication, and creative problem solving through imaginative and strategic play develop valuable learning tools to help them thrive academically and emotionally. In addition, activities that require teamwork also strengthen relationships and build trust among caregivers, children and peers. With these benefits in mind, we hope that kids, parents and caregivers who attended feel inspired to host a game night of their own!
