When my daughter was quite a bit smaller, it was tough to play board or card games with her. She had a desire to win and be right that was so fierce, games weren't fun. Games were something use to conquer your opponent even if it meant cheating in the most obvious way.

Puzzles were a non-competitive activity that we could quietly do together with both of us winning at the end.

Over the last six months or so, board games and card games have become fun. There is a maturity that has emerged allowing her to lose a bit more gracefully (although it is a toss up who will win if you play games like War).

Sometimes a board game, puzzle, or a card game is the perfect way to help a kiddo wind down after hyper or frenetic activities. It is a great way to quietly play together before bedtime. And play is a healing thing.

What kinds of games do you find fun to play with your child? Do you have attachment issues that arise when your engaging your kiddo this way? What has it helped you learn as a parent?