Why children lose interest in board games?

Board games are an exciting activity that can bring the whole family together at one table. They develop logical thinking, foster socialization, and provide a lot of positive emotions. However, many parents notice that as children grow older, they lose interest in board games. Why does this happen? When does this turning point occur? And most importantly — can this interest be rekindled or replaced with something equally meaningful? Let’s figure it out.

When Do Children Start Losing Interest in Board Games?

Children most commonly begin losing interest in board games between the ages of 10 and 14. This period coincides with the start of adolescence, a time when a child’s priorities and interests shift. While younger kids enjoy playing with family and friends, teenagers might start seeing board games as a “kid’s activity.”

Here are the most common moments when a child may abandon board games:

1. Transition to adolescence. As children grow older, they start to develop their individuality and seek activities that align with their vision of adulthood.
2. Attraction to gadgets and video games. In today’s digital world, technology plays a huge role in children’s lives. Video games and social media capture their attention, leaving less room for board games.
3. Increased academic workload. With more school responsibilities, teenagers have less free time, and they often choose more passive forms of leisure.
4. Changing social circles. Friends and social connections take up more space in teenagers’ lives. If board games aren’t popular among their peers, they may avoid them to fit in.

Why Does This Happen?

There are several reasons why the interest in board games fades:

1. Desire to grow up. Teenagers want to grow up faster and often associate board games with childhood, distancing themselves from such activities.
2. Lack of time. School workload, extracurricular activities, and exam preparation leave little time for games. Even if a teenager loves board games, they may struggle to find time for them.
3. Boredom with repetition. If a child frequently plays the same games, they might simply grow bored. This is especially true for games with simple rules that get repetitive quickly.
4. Peer pressure. Teenagers tend to follow the interests of their peers. If gadgets or sports are popular in their circle, board games might take a back seat.

What Do Children Replace Board Games With?

When children move away from board games, they find alternatives. Most commonly, these include:

1. Video games. An obvious choice, as video games offer dynamic stories, vivid graphics, and the opportunity to compete with friends.
2. Social media. Communicating with friends on messengers and social networks becomes an important part of teenagers’ lives.
3. Hobbies and creativity. Music, sports, drawing, and dancing — teenagers actively explore new interests.
4. Consuming content. Watching TV series, YouTube, or TikTok takes up a significant portion of modern kids’ time.
5. New types of board games. Teenagers might transition to more complex games aimed at adults, like tabletop role-playing games or strategy games.

How to Sustain Interest?

Although interest in board games may decline, there are ways to keep or revive it:

1. Refresh your game collection. If your child is bored with old games, offer something new. This could be more challenging strategy games, cooperative games, or popular role-playing games.
2. Play as a family. Playing together not only captivates your child but also strengthens family bonds. Teens appreciate feeling like part of a team where their opinion matters.
3. Choose games for social gatherings. If your child spends a lot of time with friends, suggest board games that will appeal to the entire group. Fun party games or competitive games can be great options.
4. Connect board games to their interests. If your child enjoys fantasy, offer a role-playing game. Into strategy? Try advanced economic or military games.
5. Let them choose. Allow your child to pick games that interest them. They might surprise you with their preferences.

How Board Games Contribute to Development?

It’s important to remember that board games aren’t just about fun — they’re a powerful developmental tool. They help:

• Develop logical thinking and strategic planning.
• Improve communication and teamwork skills.
• Train focus and memory.
• Teach decision-making and handling failure.

Even if your child temporarily loses interest in board games, these skills stay with them for life. That’s why it’s important not to push games but to show their value and enjoyment.

Why Buy Board Games Even If Interest Fades?

It might seem like buying board games for a teenager who’s lost interest in them is a waste of money. However, this isn’t true. Here’s why you should continue to expand your collection:

1. A chance to rekindle interest. A new game might become a breakthrough for your child and reignite their passion.
2. Encouraging social interaction. Board games help kids and teens make friends and communicate better in groups.
3. Family time. They’re a fantastic way to spend quality time together, especially if you choose games everyone enjoys.
4. Future interest. Even if your child isn’t playing now, board games will stay in your home. They might come back to them in a few years or play with their friends.

Invitation to Our Board Game Store

If your child has lost interest in board games, it’s not a reason to give up on them. In our online store, you’ll find games for all ages and tastes — from fun and simple party games to complex strategies and thrilling role-playing adventures. Choose a game that could spark your child’s interest or become a great family pastime.

Browse our catalog and find that perfect game to create unforgettable memories for you and your child! After all, board games aren’t just fun — they’re valuable too.