Although no one likes waiting in restaurants, it can be a bigger challenge when you are with kids. Crayons and paper may entertain younger children but kids ages seven and up may prefer to divert their attention with handheld video games and text messaging. This may keep children quiet, but then parents lose the opportunity to get to know more about their kids while in a relaxed (with hope!) setting.
Thirty-Second Kids’ Activities
The following games take thirty seconds or less for each round and are good at diverting attention, particularly if you notice the kids are getting whiny or argumentative.
Freeze! – Shortly after you sit at the table explain that anytime you call out “freeze” everyone must freeze in whatever position they are in when you say the word whether they are mid-chew or reaching for a glass of water.
One Word Sentence – Each person says one word that must go in context of the words the previous players have said. Keep going around the table until the sentence is complete. For example “One – day – a – boy – saw – a – ghost – and – ran – home – to – hide.” Each player has the ability to change the course of the action in the sentence so this game can get silly.
Nose Game – Explain that every time you place a finger to the side of your nose the other players must quickly follow. You can select any motion that you want. Fit this activity into other games or during conversation so you take players off guard. Call out the name of the last person who wasn’t paying attention to notice what you were doing.
Thinking Games for Kids
Yes or No – During this game, no one is allowed to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ or anything like an affirmative or negative answer, such as ‘can’t,’ ‘won’t,’ ‘yep,’ etc. This requires that players think carefully while answering questions. Answers also take more time as players seek alternative working. One player asks a question of the person on their left. After that person answers, they can then question the player to their left.
True – True – False – Each player makes three statements. Two are true and one is false. The clever player will state a lie that sounds very close to the truth. Other players try to guess the lie.
These games entertain kids without creating a lot of noise or fuss when in public. Parents and children can interact with one another during these games that might just start a conversation or two. You’ll find more games in Word Games for Kids to Play During Holiday Dinners.
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