Sometimes, a game is all it takes to get people talking.

At Elenasy’s Screen-Free Play sessions in Darwin Green, LEGO, board games and life-size games give young people and families a reason to put their devices aside and spend time together. There’s space to build, think, try something new and enjoy a little friendly competition.

Behind the fun, there’s learning too. Building with LEGO means working out how pieces fit and what to do when a design won’t hold. A game of chess brings opportunities to plan ahead, rethink a move and learn from someone else. Playing together also means taking turns, sharing ideas and finding a way forward when people disagree.

Some of our favourite moments have happened beyond the sessions. One young person learnt chess with us and went home to keep practising. Another asked his mum for a chessboard so he could practise before playing again with the young people he’d met here. A teenager requested backgammon, and we added it to the collection. Their interests are helping shape what we offer.

Connection matters just as much. Parents, grandparents and young people can join in, learn from one another and get to know their neighbours through play.

We’re grateful to Cambridge City Council for funding Screen-Free Play, and to L&Q for donating life-size games, including giant chess, Jenga and Connect 4. These have brought more ways for people to join in and play together.

Join us at Darwin Green Community Rooms on Saturdays during term time, 2–4pm. Come with family, bring a friend or meet someone new over a game.

→ Register for LEGO (registration & photo consent)
→ Register for board games (registration & photo consent)

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