Crossing the Generational Divide: How Gaming, Chess, and Gymnastics are Strengthening Kiwi Family Bonds

From international chess tournaments to late-night gaming, New Zealand parents are finding deeper emotional connections by joining their children’s favorite activities.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 4:27 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Chessboard Connection: From Teacher to Teammate

Sandy Wen, an Auckland midwife, initially took up chess during the 2020 lockdowns to support her eight-year-old daughter, Luna Lu. What began as a way to pass the time has evolved into a shared lifestyle of international travel and competitive play. Wen notes that as Luna’s skill surpassed her own, their relationship shifted into one of mutual respect and "quiet understanding." Next month, the pair will travel together to compete in the same international tournament in separate classes, and in June, Luna will represent New Zealand at the World Youth Chess Championships in Italy. For Wen, the game has become a lesson in patience and "slowing down" alongside her daughter.

Gaming as a Bridge for Communication

For educator and researcher Phillip Simpson, the decision to start gaming was a strategic move to connect with his teenage son, who has ADHD and dyslexia. Recognizing that traditional sports and music weren't resonating, Simpson chose to "go to the mountain" and join his son in the gaming room. Despite being admittedly "rubbish" at the games, Simpson found that the shared digital space allowed his son to act as the expert, calmly explaining mechanics and problem-solving strategies. The result has been a significant emotional breakthrough, with Simpson reporting that his son has become more open, communicative, and affectionate.

Empathy Through Physical Challenge

Victoria Young, a former ballet dancer, decided to see what her son’s gymnastics training was really like by enrolling in adult classes. While she only stayed with the sport for a year, the "absolutely buggered" feeling after a two-hour session gave her a profound appreciation for her son’s nine-hour weekly training schedule. Young found that experiencing the physical toll and the mental hurdle of overcoming fear—such as conquering a childhood dread of the vault—allowed her to ask more insightful questions about her son's achievements. This shared athletic context has moved their conversations away from general performance and toward celebrating specific moments of personal pride.