Playing cards is a great, non-sexist antidote to hi-tech kids' games. They will learn to love playing cards as they enjoy undivided adult attention and build up their concentration. They're also learning how to abide by rules, take turns and be a good winner or loser. Here's how to raise a team of card connoisseurs:
Get really little ones used to cards by starting a riotous game of snap. Try and avoid crushing their tiny digits in the mayhem.
Start your budding card sharks (aged five and upwards) off with some classic family games such as old maid and pig to familiarise them with card etiquette - sorting by number or suit and holding a number of cards. Keep the suspense up by giving a running commentary, asking players what they are thinking and hoping.
Improve pocket poker players' concentration by playing memory, where they will learn to make pairs and remember positioning.
All ages enjoy madcap games such as spoons or cheat, but balance these with strategic games like hearts, sevens and whist as they get older. Introduce "betting-lite" on special occasions in games such as newmarket or pontoon.
Grandparents will adore passing on the intricacies of older games such as cribbage to inquiring young minds. The complex scoring will help their mental arithmetic, too.
Use playing cards that are interesting or informative. Who knows, they might learn the names of all the kings and queens of England as they struggle to outwit their siblings.
Encourage children to make up their own house rules so they can be imaginative and hone games they love to play. This will help nurture their interest.