Despite worries about the struggling economy, families can still enjoy fun evenings together and stay on budget by playing board games. While board games can be played at any time, a designated family game night provides an opportunity for families to share an economical night of staying at home and creating new memories together.

In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Hasbro, 48 percent of Americans believe that a family game night is the most enjoyable form of family bonding, ranking higher than watching movies (22 percent), cooking (19 percent) and playing sports together (9 percent). Additionally, 75 percent of Americans would rather play board games than video games as a group activity at a family reunion or gathering.

A night out at the movies can cost a family more than $40, and the experience is finished once you leave the theater. On the other hand, a new board game often costs less than $25 and can be added to the family’s game collection to be played again and again.

While the game you select isn’t as important as the time spent together as a family, when selecting a game you should consider the age of the players and the amount of time available for family game night. Decide in advance which day will be your family game night. As long as the date is marked on a calendar that everyone can see, and the parents make it a priority to keep the appointment, the night will be one to remember.

Involving the whole family in the planning process allows kids to pick the games or choose the snacks. For variety, rotate responsibilities each time you enjoy a family game night.

– Courtesy of Family Features