The Importance of Games
by Austen Petersen, Director of Religious Education
At WUU, you may have noticed that we host Games Nights for the children, and these evenings have quickly become a beloved tradition. The children participate in a variety of games that not only entertain but also foster personal growth, building both friendships and valuable life skills. From moments of laughter to deeper connections, Games Night provides a welcoming and inclusive space for our young ones to engage with each other and the community in meaningful ways. The joy and enthusiasm they bring highlight the success of this initiative in nurturing both social and spiritual development within our congregation. Not only that, but there’s Unitarian Universalist religious education baked into every evening.
Why Games Night?
Incorporating Games Night into our congregation’s activities is more than just a fun evening for children, it is an opportunity to build connections, foster emotional well-being, and enhance spiritual development. Offering a safe, engaging, and inclusive space for children to explore their interests while nurturing personal growth is a vital part of our mission: “To serve our members and friends by providing a welcoming, inclusive community to explore and encourage personal spiritual growth.”
Social and Emotional Benefits
Games Night is a platform where children can build meaningful friendships and strengthen social skills in a Unitarian Universalist context. Through cooperative games, children learn the value of teamwork, trust, and patience. These experiences are crucial in the emotional and social development of children, as they provide a safe, inclusive space for self-expression. Children gain confidence and a sense of belonging, knowing they are part of a supportive community.
This kind of social interaction helps children develop empathy, a key aspect of religious growth. As they play, they learn how to work through conflicts, respect others’ feelings, and celebrate each other's successes. Such emotional intelligence lays a strong foundation for spiritual maturity as children are taught to love and care for others.
Skill Development
Games Night goes beyond just social benefits—it also supports a wide range of developmental skills. Children are not only having fun, but they are also learning critical skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
Gross Motor Skills
Fine Motor Skills
Math and Strategy Skills
Inclusivity and Accessibility
A key component of Games Night is its inclusivity. We recognize that some individuals may be hesitant to attend traditional Sunday morning services due to prior religious trauma or injury. For these children, Games Night offers a non-judgmental, low-pressure environment where they can engage with the congregation on their terms. By providing an alternative space for interaction and exploration, we ensure that no child feels excluded or alienated.
Our congregation’s commitment to being a welcoming community is reflected in this inclusive approach. We aim to create opportunities for children to feel comfortable and valued in their spiritual journey. Games Night is an excellent way to engage families who may be seeking a more accessible form of connection and growth, without the pressure of attending a traditional service.
Community Engagement
In today's rapidly evolving religious landscape, mega-churches often host evening events and programs to expand their outreach and deepen their connections with congregants. These events are not only about creating a sense of belonging but also about growing and nurturing the congregational community. By offering Games Night, we, too, are creating an opportunity for connection beyond the typical Sunday morning service.
This initiative is a healthy and valuable offering to the greater community, reflecting our mission to promote religious, racial, and social harmony. It also highlights our commitment to liberal religion by embodying Unitarian Universalist values, such as inclusivity, respect for diversity, and a focus on personal spiritual growth.
Games Night aligns with our mission to participate in transformative actions that lead to a sustainable and humane world. As children develop important life skills and emotional intelligence, they are also being shaped into compassionate individuals who are more likely to carry forward these values into the larger world. Our congregation, through these small yet impactful events, is planting the seeds for future leaders who will continue to promote kindness, cooperation, and social good.
As a congregation, we are living out our values by fostering an environment of growth, inclusivity, and understanding. We invite all children, regardless of their past experiences, to join us for an evening of fun, laughter, and connection. Games Night is a gift we offer to the community, reflecting our ongoing commitment to embody the principles of Unitarian Universalism and contribute to a more harmonious, compassionate world.
Upcoming Dates
March 2025
March 21, 2025 (Friday)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
April 2025
April 18, 2025 (Friday)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
May 2025
May 16, 2025 (Friday)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM