By: Emily Carter
Updated: August 21, 2023
Originally Published: July 12, 2023
As a child, I never anticipated that the games I played would serve as training for my future role as a parent. At first glance, games like Hungry Hungry Hippos may not seem to offer much educational value. However, reflecting on my experiences now, it’s clear that these playful moments equipped me with essential skills for navigating the challenges of parenthood. Below is a collection of games that significantly enhanced my parenting abilities:
- Twister: This classic game of physical flexibility taught me the importance of maintaining balance while juggling multiple tasks. The dexterity I honed while playing Twister has proven invaluable when getting my children ready for bed. Managing four little ones simultaneously requires a level of coordination reminiscent of an octopus, and my Twister skills have been a tremendous asset.
- Operation: The need for a steady hand and calm demeanor in Operation prepared me for dealing with real-life scenarios. For instance, when faced with the task of removing a splinter from a wriggling child, the focus and meticulousness I learned from the game comes in handy. The ability to stay composed amidst chaos is crucial in those moments, and I owe some of that to the lessons learned from the game.
- Clue: Clue introduced me to the art of deduction and the process of elimination. As a parent, especially with multiple children, figuring out who is responsible for a mishap can be complex. The skills I developed through the game have made me a more adept detective in my household, allowing me to sift through alibis and excuses effectively.
- Memory: Playing Memory required me to pay attention and remember the locations of various cards. This skill translates seamlessly into my daily life as a parent, where I must recall the whereabouts of toys, clothes, and other items my children misplace. Additionally, my ability to match socks from an ever-growing pile is a direct result of my time spent playing this game.
- Monopoly: In Monopoly, players often find themselves spending money they don’t have on things they don’t need, a concept that resonates in the parenting world. As I navigate shopping trips with my children, I encounter similar dynamics. While I strive to teach my kids about responsible spending, we sometimes fall into the same traps as in the game.
- Trivial Pursuit: Parenthood comes with a barrage of questions, many of which are trivial in nature. Luckily, my pre-parenthood experiences with Trivial Pursuit prepared me for this reality. My children’s inquiries range from sports records to the science of bodily functions. Although I may not have all the answers, I’m grateful for resources like Google that can help me keep up.
- Hungry Hippos: The frantic race to collect marbles in Hungry Hungry Hippos has parallels to the dinner table chaos with my kids. Teaching them about sharing is vital, yet the instinct to grab what you want remains strong. I’ve learned that sometimes I need to assert myself, or I risk missing out on dessert!
While nothing can fully prepare anyone for the journey of parenthood, engaging in family game nights has certainly provided me with valuable insights and skills. Initiating game nights with my children will not only be fun but also educational, preparing them for their own futures.
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In summary, the games we enjoyed during childhood can provide invaluable skills and lessons that translate into effective parenting strategies. Engaging in these activities not only fosters family bonding but also equips us with the tools we need for the challenges that lie ahead.