Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

What do you do when you’re stuck inside for a week due to heavy storms and flooded streets? Bust out the board games! With all of the severe weather we’ve experienced this fall, having something fun to keep the kids busy has been a lifesaver. We’ve had the perfect opportunity to gives these board games a go from University Games.

Family Game Night with University Games

Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

University Games was founded in 1985 by two guys who not only loved playing games, but also recognized their role in social development. The company strives to make games that encourage social interaction and imagination. They have won multiple awards including those from Parent’s Choice, Parenting Magazine, and Dr. Toy.Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

Each one of these board games is based off of a popular children’s show or book. They include Shimmer and Shine Genies Forever Game, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Welcome to Main Street Game, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Spin and Seek ABC Game, and Pete the Cat Groovy Buttons Game. While these games all vary in theme, we noticed right away that they all have the same key components. This made it pretty easy for the kids to set them up and get going when we wanted to play a few rounds. They include:

  • 1 foldable game board
  • 1 game spinner
  • character pieces and stands
  • individual player game piece collection boards

Each game also has some additional pieces that are unique to the game’s goal and theme. For example, Shimmer and Shine includes sparkly gems for players to collect while Pete the Cat comes with Pete’s brightly colored buttons. We all know it can be hard keeping games and puzzles in decent shape, but each game piece appears to be sturdy and well made, limiting any wear or tear. They all easily pack back into their boxes as well.

Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

The recommended age for these board games is ages 4 and up. I really like that they all have an underlying educational benefit that children in this age will gain through play. We found that the Pete the Cat Groovy Buttons Game is perfect for Violet who is learning the basics of counting in kindergarten right now. She and her brother love Pete the Cat, so this game has easily become their favorite.

Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

Along with math and counting, these games help the kids work on letter identification, taking turns, and cooperation all while having a good time. No need for electronics, these games are a great way for families to just slow down a little and enjoy time together the old fashioned way.

Host the ultimate family game night with your kids with University Games! From classics to the latest characters, there's something for everyone.

The Shimmer and Shine Genies Forever Game, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Welcome to Main Street Game, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Spin and Seek ABC Game, and Pete the Cat Groovy Buttons Game can all be purchased for under $20 each. For more info on University Games and their selection of games for kids and adults, check them out at www.universitygames.com. You can also visit them on Facebook and Twitter!

Which of these University Games would your family love to play? Share in the comments!