by A Cooper

Created on: October 21, 2009

Thanksgiving brings with it not only time to reflect upon all of the blessings in our lives, but it also offers a chance for families to relax and enjoy each other's company. In today's fast paced world, game time is often reserved for kids, but adults like to play too, and if you enlist the right ones, they can help by supervising and participating in some fun games this Thanksgiving holiday.

Board games can be fun for the older kids and adults, however little ones need activities that don't require a long period of time sitting still! Tried and true favorites, such as hide and seek and tag are always a hit, however keeping things fresh by adding more games to your arsenal is a good idea.

Scavenger hunt is a great game, however it does require some preparation. Simply gather some items and hide them all over your home, and weather permitting, your yard as well. Next, write a short description of each object, being certain that you provide enough information for the hunters to get an idea of what they are looking for without telling them exactly what it is. For example, a description of a magnifying glass could read something like If you need to see more closely, I'm the one you need. Be sure you note where you hid everything, or you might not find it until spring cleaning! The clues can be as funny, serious, difficult or easy as you would like.

Charades is a fun game, and can be made even more fun by limiting the choices of subject matter to one certain theme, such as Thanksgiving movies, or symbols of autumn, winter, etc.

A dry erase board is great for picture guessing games, which can also be limited to make it more challenging for teens and adults.

If the weather outside is cooperating, a fun game of tag football is a good way to get those helpful family members (a/k/a the tasters) out of the kitchen, and off to enjoy some great fall fun!

There is no need to miss out on game time if you are traveling this year. Have your older children keep a tally of the different state license plates they and their younger siblings spot as you head towards your destination. A fun game of I Spy gets even the youngest ones in on the action to see who can spot something colored red. Be sure to bring along plenty of crayons or non-permanent markers, coloring books and your children's favorite toys as well.

Kids love to make up games too, so don't forget to call your troops together and brainstorm new variations on old favorites, or perhaps even a totally new game that will blow away the neighbors and have everyone talking about what fun they had at your house last year!

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