Some of the most exciting moments in parenthood are all of those "firsts" -- baby's first breath, first bath, first smile, first giggle, first time rolling over, first time sleeping through the night, first solid foods, first word, first few steps...and the list could go on! The first few years of a child's life are believed to be the most important in terms of brain development. Children are constantly growing, changing and developing to reach new motor, cognitive, social and emotional milestones.
HABA My Very First Games
While unconditional love and support are every parent's number one priority when it comes to caring for their child, HABA believes that learning and playing should come next! That is why we've developed several lines of toys and games tailored specifically for toddlers and preschoolers. HABA's My Very First Games were designed to stimulate learning and development through play early on. All of these "first" games can be played competitively or cooperatively --where there is not just one winner. Most importantly, every game has simple rules to be understood, remembered and followed. Each game comes with instructions and also doubles as a toy set for open play, to encourage imagination and creativity. The solid wood pieces are chunky and easy for little fingers to grasp, and the various game boards are vibrant and cheery with bright colors and bright scenes. My Very First Games focus specifically on sorting, matching, counting, stacking, listening, building, puzzles and color and shape recognition to stimulate all the senses.
Our featured My Very First Game is First Orchard! Like all other My Very First Games, it is recommended for ages two and up and can be played with alone or with up to 4 others. First Orchard helps children learn to distinguish different colors through game play, while fostering cooperation, social skills, and turn taking. This game can be used as both a game (with game boards and die) and also as a pretend play set of solid, wooden fruit. Boys and girls alike will love this great introduction to the exciting world of board games!
The Benefits of Family Game Play
Board games aren't just "child's play"! Family game nights help encourage quality time together. Life can get so busy these days, and it's easy to get disconnected from one another. Board games offer a fun and even competitive incentive to gather around the table and connect. In a time with so much technology, it is beneficial for families to take a break from screen time and have real face to face interactions with the people who matter most.
We make some of the best games for families simply because they are fun for all ages. The rules and concepts are simple enough for a young age range, yet fun and engaging enough for the adults to enjoy. The best example of this is Animal Upon Animal and Rhino Hero. Both are for kids as young as 4 or 5, but are fun for adults too. They have a dexterity element to them, with easy to grasp rules and quick set up (because the best way to turn off someone from game night is with confusing rules and a complicated set up!). [Shop HABA Dexterity Games]
If your audience is a bit older than 5, our Game Night Approved line may be for you. Karuba is for 7+ and even though it only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, it's a highly addictive puzzle game that people will want to play several times in a row! How about our beginner family strategy game - HONGA? Even if your family isn't "into board games" - trust us when we say they are going to absolutely LOVE this one! If your crew is looking for depth, pick up Miyabi, designed by award-winning game designer Michael Kiesling. In this one, players act as gardeners who are designing the most beautiful Japanese garden. Only by skillfully placing stones, bushes, trees, ponds and pagodas on multiple levels can a player become the best garden designer of the season!
No matter what your family's gaming mood is, HABA will have something to fit your crowd! Explore our selection of games recommended for families and get a game night regularly scheduled - your family will thank you!
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