Bingo: A Great Family Bonding Activity

Bingo is a fun indoor game that can be enjoyed by the family. It is also a game offered by some establishments that gives big cash prizes. No matter what, this is a game where one would enjoy and pass the time without getting bored. It is best during family outings, reunions, and other family gatherings. The head of the family or the other members could donate cash or gifts as prizes.

Playing Bingo is actually quite simple. You can choose a set of up to eight Bingo cards Each Bingo card is a 5 x 5 grid with the letters "B," "I," "N," "G," and "O" at the top of each column. The cards are numbered randomly from 1 to 75. for "B" the numbers are from 1-15. for example, under "B" the numbers are 1, 10, 14, 6, 7. Under "I", the numbers are from 16-30. say, 23, 29, 16, 19 and 25. same goes for "N", "G" and "O". Under each letter are five numbers, except the center space. This is always considered "marked."

A player must match a specific pattern, determined before the game. If a player matches the numbers in the correct pattern and declares Bingo, that player wins the current game. The family assigns a "caller" to pick and announce the numbers from a container that is continuously being shaken. Up to 75 random numbers are called, so you'll have to concentrate. Each player can play up to eight Bingo cards. Successful players will usually be playing the maximum number of cards while closely following which numbers are called, marking them on their cards, and making sure they don't fall behind on the number list. The player should have a good eye and must concentrate to win. The first one to shout "Bingo" wins, and the game is over. Players could get another set of cards and a new pattern will be indicated before the new game starts.

The family can decide on what patterns to use. The choices are so many. Popular patterns are the black-out, the checker-board, the picture frame, the cross, four corners, ribbon and vertical or horizontal stripes.

So, let's get started. All we need is a set of randomly numbered cards and ping-pong balls numbered 1 to 75, a box where to put those balls in. You can have as many players as you can. Choose your "caller" usually, the family "clown" to make the game lively and exciting!