Growing Closer One Meal at a Time: Table Games for tiny players

The dinner table is so much more than a place to eat. It is a place to connect, to grow, and to discover. Those in-between moments waiting for food are perfect for laughter, learning, and a little friendly competition. A simple Letter Hunt strengthens early literacy, while “Mouth it challenge” sharpens attention and observation skills. Most importantly, these games build relationships. We hope they encourage you to trade screens for shared smiles and transform routine meals into meaningful family moments.

GUESS what I am painting

Materials: Notepad or a piece of paper, Paint Palette, Wet Wipes, Extra Brushes(depending on number of participants)

How to play: Drip a few drops of water to each of the colours in the palette, take the brush and paint away! Have fun guessing what everyone is painting. You can also encourage your child to utilise mixed media to paint., such as crayons or colour pencils.

Letter Hunt

Materials: have the child choose an official letter for today

How to play: Take turns going around the family and spotting the “official letter” on the menu or around your surroundings (like shop signs, food labels, placemats, or restaurant decor).

Mouth it Challenge

Materials: NONE

How to play: One person "mouths" a short, three-word sentence without making any sound. The rest of the family has to lip-read to figure out what was said. Example: “I love Chocolate”.

So, why wait for a special occasion? Take a small step tonight. Choose one of these table games and give it a try. These simple additions can transform your usual mealtime into a treasury of laughter, learning, and lasting family memories. Start trading the silence of screens for the simple joy of shared smiles, one meal at a time.