fun and games gift basketGiving a small fun and games gift basket is a wonderful way to show a child you have noticed him trying his best.  Of course, saying the words of ‘Great Going’ or ‘Awesome Job’ should be said, giving an extra special treat for an extra special accomplishment offers something unique.  It’s another way to let a child know he’s done something you really appreciate.

The gift basket does not have to be an expensive array.  And, since spending time with children is always free and yet a priceless treat in itself, for both children and parents, adding a game to the assortment is perfect.  The game is later played and enjoyed together as a family. This gathering together is one of the best rewards.

Creating a fun and games gift basket is easy. There are many different types of colorful and themed card games which fit snug in a small plastic bin.  These plastic containers can usually be found at discount stores for less than a dollar. Suggestions for items to place in the bin with the game are some tasty snacks. A microwavable popcorn bag, which can later be popped at game time, provides an ideal addition.  Juice drinks, fruit roll-ups, a little stuffed animal, stickers, pencils or tiny notepads can also be added.

The following are some ideas for games to include.  Depending on the age or likes of a child will help decide exactly what game to add.  All of the below games can be played within 15 to 30 minutes and are compact in size.  All are great fun!
big fish Big Fish Lil Fish (2-6 players, ages 6 and up)

Sixty colorful fish cards are included in this game.  Players race to eat as many fish as possible without getting fooled by the spiny Puffer Fish being thrown into the pond.  Fast and exciting, Big Fish Lil Fish is a favorite.  Lil fish just can’t seem to get their fill of it!


Slamwich (2-6 players, ages 6 and up)

This award winning stack of cards is a true treat!  The bread shaped deck sets the tone for building slamwiches.  With sneaking munchers and thief cards, players have to be on alert.  Flipping and stacking, while making sandwiches, have never been so much fun for the whole family.


Too Many Monkeys (2-6 players, ages 6 and up)

The object of Too Many Monkeys is to get Primo the Monkey back to sleep. As a basic counting game, players need to line up cards 1 through 6.  The game contains 65 cards for play and although chance or the draw of the card ultimately determines the winner, little ones love the theme.


Rat-a-Tat-Cat (2-6 players, ages 6 and up)

Combining strategy with a bit of luck, playing the game of Rat-a-Tat-Cat creates a suspenseful and exciting time for all.  Striving to have four of the lowest cards, by drawing and discarding, players will be thinking, ‘Keep the cats, and get rid of the rats!’


Zeus on the Loose (2-6 players, ages 8 and up)

Climbing up a mountain is a lot of fun with the card game of Zeus on the Loose.  The player who reaches the top of Mount Olympus with Zeus in his hand wins! Children will love to summon the help of other mythological gods like Apollo or Poseidon.  Sixty divine cards let the games begin!


There’s a Moose in the House (2-5 players, ages 8 and up)

Keeping Moose out of the house is quite difficult in this game.  Your opponent’s are always trying to keep them out of their kitchen or bedrooms, while placing them in your bathroom or living rooms!  Setting a moose trap or slamming a door may help to win the game!


Sleeping Queens (2-5 players, ages 8 and up)

Sleeping Queens is a charming game.  Filled with knights, dragons, potions and more, children and adults will be challenged to wake the sleeping queens.  The player who can wake the most wins.  The theme offers an enchanting night of game playing!


Loot (2-8 players, ages 10 and up)

Playing the game of Loot offers a night of plundering fun!  The best player at looting and capturing merchant ships wins this game.  Out for the gold, and exciting to play, pirates of all ages will enjoy this game of strategy and steal the night away.