Let’s face it: there are moments when you find yourself stuck in a dull situation, like waiting at the DMV or anxiously waiting to see if you’ve been summoned for jury duty. You’ve likely browsed your usual websites, checked social media, and are still feeling the boredom creeping in. Now, if you have a teen who is glued to their phone, what’s a bored parent to do? Challenge them to a text-based game! You’ll discover that it’s not as lame as it sounds, and it can be a fun way to bond while passing the time.
Your teenager is likely more attached to their smartphone than the rest of the family (sorry, not sorry!). This is simply a phase of growing up, but there are ways to stay connected. Relating to your teen is vital during these years when they seem so distant. Engaging them through texting can promote connection and understanding. They might not pick up your calls (despite you being the one paying the bills), but a fun texting game might just get them to respond. Here are 10 entertaining texting games that can keep both of you occupied for hours.
1. The Name Game
This classic game translates well to text. Pick a category, like “movies,” and start with a name. For example, if one person texts “Leonardo DiCaprio,” the next must respond with a name starting with “o,” like “Octavia Spencer.”
2. Unfortunately/Fortunately
If you enjoy storytelling, this game is perfect. One person begins a story, and the next adds a twist starting with “unfortunately,” followed by a resolution beginning with “fortunately.” For example, “Sophia decided to bake a cake. Unfortunately, she ran out of flour. Fortunately, her neighbor had some to lend her.”
3. Would You Rather
This game involves presenting two bizarre scenarios and letting the other person choose. For instance, “Would you rather have unlimited pizza for life or have the ability to fly but only three feet off the ground?”
4. Name That Tune
In this texting version, one person sends a lyric from a song, and the other must guess which song it is from. No cheating with Google!
5. Going on a Trip
This game is simple and follows an alphabetical order. One person texts, “I’m going on a trip to Paris, and I’m taking a pineapple.” The next person continues with “I’m going on a trip to Rome, and I’m taking a raspberry,” and so on.
6. ABC Abbreviations
Challenge each other with common and made-up text abbreviations. See if you can stump them with something like “BTD” (bring the donuts) or “FST” (funny story time).
7. Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon
This old favorite works well over text. One person names a celebrity, and the other must connect them to Kevin Bacon in six steps or less. The crazier the connection, the better!
8. Categories
Choose a category, such as “types of fruit” or “countries,” and take turns naming items that fit. It starts easy, but gets trickier as you exhaust options.
9. Breakdown
Instead of relying on apps, send a word to your teen and have them create new words by rearranging the letters. For example, from “strawberry,” they could text back “straw,” “berry,” or “bar.”
10. Correct the Spelling
Text a jumbled word and a hint. For example, “nseog (animal)” could lead them to guess “goose.”
These games can foster a sense of connection. If you’re interested in more creative ideas, check out this blog post for additional insights.
In summary, these 10 texting games provide a fun and engaging way to interact with your teen, helping bridge the communication gap and creating enjoyable bonding moments.