Whether your kids are young or they’re teenagers, there is always a need to keep them entertained. From the time that they are little to when they grow up, there is always a demand to find ways to keep them happy.
Fortunately, sometimes keeping your kids entertained is as simple as investing in a game or sports equipment. You don’t even have to worry about spending thousands when it comes to buying the best kind of game for the family.
For example, cornhole boards are minimal investment yet can be a lot of fun. If you have yet to play cornhole boards, the following guide will help you understand why it may be the best investment for you and yours.
What Are Cornhole Boards?
Depending on where you live and which kind of bars or restaurants you frequent, you may have noticed people playing what looks like a childish game throwing bean bags at pieces of wood. If you look closer, you’ll discover that it’s more than just wood.
Cornhole boards are raised platforms at size 48” x 24” that are made from ½ inch plywood that is designed to be raised 12 inches off of the ground (1). The hole is at the far end of the platform, and typically the cornhole board designer will paint some kind of design on the wood, but not always. The front part of the board doesn’t have legs, while the back part that needs to be elevated will have two thick and sturdy ones.
Of course, don’t forget that you need the bean bags (which are full of corn, and thus the game has the name “cornhole”). The bags should measure around 6” by 6” and should be made from a durable material, so they don’t rip during the game.
How Do You Play?
Fortunately, cornhole boards are not difficult to play. At least, the rules are not hard to follow. Actually getting the bean bags in the hole can take some time and practice, which is one reason why it’s so fun to play.
The point of the game is to get as many bags in the hole of the opponent’s board as possible. The following are some things (2) to keep in mind during the game:
- Make sure that you have the boards on a flat surface. Wherever you put the boards needs to be leveled so that both sides have a fair advantage.
- The distance between the boards is supposed to be 27 feet from the end of each of the boards, but obviously, if you don’t have the space for that in your back yard, it can be closer.
- They need to be lined up evenly so that the boards are direct across from each other.
- Start by placing the bags on each board.
- To get points, you’re going to want to get the bags in the hole. Bags in the hole will be 3 points, whereas bags that land on the board are worth a point at the end of each round. Don’t take the bags off when they don’t land in the hole. Ones that land on the ground near the board are nil.
- The point of the game is to get 21 points by the end of the game. Whoever does it first, wins.
What To Look For?
Are you considering investing in cornhole boards? It’s bound to be a great investment for your family. It’s so simple to play yet competitive enough for it to be fun. As you start shopping for your cornhole boards, do you know what you should be looking for? The following are some of the features that you should take into consideration before buying your cornhole boards:
- Is it regulation size? It doesn’t matter too much if it’s not, as long as you don’t have dreams to become a cornhole board champion. Of course, it’s always best to play with the standard size, especially if you want to be able to play well wherever you end up playing.
- What type of weather protection does it have? If you’re going to be putting the boards outside, you’ll want to make sure to protect them from the elements, so that they last longer and you don’t have to invest in boards again. There are waterproof cornhole boards, which is the best idea as you won’t have to worry about moving them indoors all the time and can just leave them outside. You can also use them near your swimming pool area if that’s where you want to place them. If you like the idea of plain, wooden cornhole boards, especially ones that have been specially customized and handcrafted, you’ll need to make sure to either use them in a covered area or bring them inside when they’re not in use. Warped cornhole boards are no fun at all.
- You can buy used ones, but is that what you want? It’s best to buy new boards if you want them to last for a while. Used cornhole boards may be alright if they haven’t been used a lot, but you want your boards to last a while, don’t you? New is the best.
- Do you want to buy a whole set? Some boards arrive alone, while others are included in a set with corn bags and all. Some crafty people may actually like the idea of making the bags themselves, but of course, when you purchase good quality bags, you’re bound to get something that will last for a long time. Even more than the boards, you want the bags to be able to stand up to the wear and tear of playing with them often.
- What about do-it-yourself? You can definitely try to make your own boards, especially if you’re a crafty individual, but if you do, make sure to take your time and do it right. The investment in the wood and material may not be that much, but you want a game you can be proud to bring out at parties, barbeques, or simply to show off to your family.
- How big are the holes? If you have young kids, you may want to consider the fact that they may not be able to aim as well as older teenagers. If you want them to be able to participate and have a good time, you may consider investing in boards with larger holes so that it’s easier to get the bags in them.
- Do you want to move your boards from one place to the next? Some people like to bring their boards to tailgating parties or other events. Look for portable options if this is the case for you.
Final Thoughts
Are you ready to play? Cornhole board games are a lot of fun. You don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on a worthwhile investment that your family will enjoy for years to come. It’s easy to play and fun to do.
