Board games creation as motivating and learning tool for STEM

Properly designed Board games can be useful outreach and learning tools for STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). A further step in this direction is the direct involvement of youngsters and students in the process of design and creation of original board games with educational purposes for STEM. This approach can foster motivation, curiosity, immersion and direct involvement generating an enabling environment for learning. We are experimenting this approach in different contexts with the support of the EU Project Photonics4All, in particular with creative laboratories in High Schools, Science Festivals and Games Festivals, and with a national competition for High School students for the creation of board games about light and photonics. We present the more recent experiences and discuss results, issues and future perspectives.