How board games teach skills

Viktor Vlcev
Sep 25
3 min read

Updated: Sep 30

Board games have been a cornerstone of family entertainment for generations, but their benefits go beyond just having fun. They are rich tools for learning and skill development. Whether you are rolling dice, strategizing with friends, or deciphering complex rules, board games can help develop essential life skills. In this post, we will explore how board games can enhance critical thinking, social skills, and emotional intelligence.

Your brain on board games

When you sit down to play, your brain goes into high gear. Research shows that board games enhance problem-solving, strengthen memory, and support cognitive development [1].

For teens, this is especially powerful adolescence is a time of peak neuroplasticity, when the brain is flexible and primed to form new connections [2]. Every clever move in Catan or clue in Codenames sparks dopamine, the chemical that boosts both fun and learning [2].

So, the next time someone says you’re “just playing,” you can tell them you’re actually training your brain.

Teamwork training disguised as play

Cooperative games like Pandemic or Forbidden Island require clear communication, trust, and coordination. Studies show that such games significantly improve teamwork compared to solo activities [3].

Even basics like taking turns teach respect, patience, and collaboration—skills that carry over to school, friendships, and work [1][4]. Researchers call this “collaborative problem-solving,” and board games provide a perfect practice ground [5].

Strategy = Critical thinking

Games like Chess, Ticket to Ride, or Splendor sharpen decision-making. You’re constantly planning ahead, adapting to setbacks, and weighing risks. Unlike abstract exercises, games give instant feedback—make a bad move in Catan, and you learn quickly to adjust [6].

Regular strategy play strengthens executive functions: focus, adaptability, and juggling multiple tasks [7]. These are the same skills you need to balance school, friendships, and everyday challenges.

Social growth around the table

Nearly half of teens say gaming has helped them make meaningful friendships [8]. Around the board, everyone contributes differently—whether through strategy, group reading, or keeping things light.

Board games also teach emotional regulation. Handling wins and losses gracefully is a life skill, and games provide a safe way to practice it [1][9]. Research confirms that board games foster inclusive communities where diverse groups can connect [10].

Games worth your time

Here are a few titles that balance fun with growth:

Cooperative: Pandemic, Forbidden Island, Ghost Fightin’ Treasure Hunters
Strategy: Catan, Ticket to Ride, Splendor
Quick Social: Codenames, Exploding Kittens, King of Tokyo

Each one develops teamwork, adaptability, or communication—while keeping things genuinely fun.

More than just play

Board games aren’t just a way to pass time. They’re disguised skill-builders, preparing you for teamwork, decision-making, and stronger connections.

At Skill Tree, we love creating these spaces where learning happens naturally through play. Whether you’re an experienced gamer or brand-new, there’s always a seat at our table.

Want to join our gaming community? Check out our upcoming events or stop by Skill Tree to see what we are all about. Your next level-up might be just one game away.

References:

[1] Xceptional Learning. (2023). How board games can enhance social, behavioral, and developmental skills in children. Retrieved from https://xceptionallearning.com/play-therapy/how-board-games-can-enhance-social-behavioral-and-developmental-skills-in-children/

[2] Biopolis World. (2023). Benefits of game-based learning for adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.biopolis.world/en/blog/benefits-game-based-learning-adolescents

[3] Crocco, F., Offenholley, K., & Hernandez, C. (2016). A Delphi study to investigate the value of board games to teach teamwork skills. ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition Proceedings. Retrieved from https://peer.asee.org/work-in-progress-a-delphi-study-to-investigate-the-value-of-board-games-to-teach-teamwork-skills.pdf

[4] Child Development Clinic. (2022). Benefits of board games for children and their families. Retrieved from https://www.childdevelopmentclinic.com.au/benefits-of-board-games-for-children-and-their-families.html

[5] Ke, F. (2022). The power of board games for multidomain learning. Journal of Applied Research in Education, University of Waterloo. Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1357958.pdf

[6] Bristol Tutors. (2023). The benefits of board games: How tabletop games improve life skills. Retrieved from https://bristoltutors.co.uk/news/the-benefits-of-board-games-how-tabletop-games-improve-life-skills/

[7] Life Skills Advocate. (2024). 25 board games that promote executive functioning skills. Retrieved from https://lifeskillsadvocate.com/blog/25-board-games-that-promote-executive-functioning-skills/

[8] Bandpass Design. (2024). Video games and teenagers: Insights & data. Retrieved from https://bandpassdesign.com/blogs/resources/video-games-and-teenagers-insights-data

[9] Manhattan Psychology Group. (2023). Benefits of board games. Retrieved from https://manhattanpsychologygroup.com/benefits-board-games/

[10] O’Connor, C., & Fraser, K. (2024). “Great times with board games”: Promoting the right to play for diverse groups. Children and Youth Services Review, 157, 107234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2024.107234