Are you tired of seeing your kids glued to screens all day, missing out on the classic fun of board games?
You’re not the only one. Many parents are yearning for ways to engage their children in more traditional, face-to-face play.
Fortunately, there are captivating family board games designed specifically for kids that can reignite their passion for interactive fun.
As an expert in children’s entertainment and toys, I have curated a detailed guide showcasing the top board games for kids that are currently taking the market by storm.
Best Board Games for Kids
1. CATAN Junior Board Game-Editor’s Choice
Build, trade, and strategize! Enter the world of CATAN and become the ultimate civilization builder.
Pros
- CATAN Junior introduces a simpler playing style of the classic game, making it perfect for younger players.
- The game is designed for players as young as 6, making it a great introduction to the CATAN series of games for kids and families.
- CATAN Junior is not just a game for kids, but a genuine family game to be enjoyed by adults and young children alike.
Cons
- The game may not be challenging enough for older kids or adults.
- The game can take some time to set up and learn.
- The game may not be as engaging for kids who are not interested in pirates or adventure games.
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging board game for kids, then CATAN Junior Board Game is a great option.
CATAN Junior Board Game takes place on a ring of tropical islands, including the mysterious Spooky Island, home of the Ghost Captain. Each island generates a specific resource – wood, goats, molasses, or cutlasses. You can also find gold. Just watch out for the dreaded Ghost Captain!
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players and is suitable for ages 6 and older. Average playtime is approximately 30 minutes. The game contains 106 die-cut markers representing resources and specials, 4 player cost boards, 1 two-sided game board, 28 Pirate hideouts (7 each of 4 colors), 32 Ships (8 each of 4 colors), 1 pirate ghost, 1 die, 1 tray, 1 box, 1 rule book.
CATAN Junior is a fun and engaging board game for kids and families. It is easy to learn and play, and the game mechanics are simple enough for younger players to understand. The game is also visually appealing, with colorful and detailed game pieces and a beautifully illustrated game board.
- Educational Value 5/5
- Teaches strategy, negotiation, and resource management.
- Engagement and Replayability 5/5
- Every game is different, offering endless replayability.
- Safety and Durability 4.5/5
- High-quality components, but small pieces might be unsuitable for younger kids.
2. Guess Who? Original Guessing Game for Kids Ages 6 and Up for 2 Players-Runner Up
Dive into a world of faces and fun! Can you guess who’s who?
Pros
- The game is easy to learn and play, making it perfect for kids ages 6 and up.
- The updated character art and names add a fun twist to the classic gameplay.
- The game is interactive and encourages kids to ask questions and think critically.
Cons
- The game is only designed for two players, so it may not be suitable for larger families or groups.
- The plastic construction of the game may not hold up well to rough play or frequent use.
- Some players may find the gameplay repetitive or unengaging after multiple rounds.
We recently played the Guess Who? game with our kids and had a blast. The game is simple enough for young kids to understand, but engaging enough to keep older kids interested as well. The updated character art and names add a fun twist to the classic gameplay, and our kids enjoyed trying to guess each other’s mystery characters.
One thing to keep in mind is that the game is only designed for two players, so it may not be suitable for larger families or groups. The plastic construction of the game may not hold up well to rough play or frequent use. Finally, some players may find the gameplay repetitive or unengaging after multiple rounds.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Guess Who? game for families looking for a fun and interactive board game to play with their kids.
- Educational Value 4/5
- Enhances deductive reasoning and observation skills.
- Engagement and Replayability 4/5
- The challenge of guessing keeps players engaged, and the game can be played repeatedly without losing its charm.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Sturdy game components with no small parts that can be easily lost.
Pressman Charades for Kids – The ‘No Reading Required’ Family Game, 5″-Best Budget
Act it out and let the fun begin! A game that bridges the gap between generations.
Pros
- The game is designed for kids, but it’s also great for the whole family to play together.
- The cards have clues with pictures, making this easy for non-readers, but also reinforces early reading skills.
- There are 3 levels of play that allow younger players to participate while still making it challenging enough for older players.
Cons
- The game can be a little too easy for older kids and adults.
- Some of the items are a little difficult for younger kids to act out.
- There aren’t enough pictures on the cards.
We recently played Pressman Charades for Kids with our 4-year-old daughter, and she loved it. The pictures on the cards made it easy for her to understand what she needed to act out, and it was fun for the whole family to guess what she was trying to convey. This word game is also great for reinforcing early reading skills, as the pictures are accompanied by words that older kids can read.
The 3 levels of play in this card game are a great feature, as they allow younger players to participate while still making it challenging enough for older players in this classic party game. However, we did find that some of the items were a little difficult for our daughter to act out, and some of the items were a little too easy for older kids and adults.
Overall, we would definitely recommend Pressman Charades for Kids to families with young children who are looking for a fun and stimulating game that gets kids moving around and having fun.
- Educational Value 3/5
- Enhances vocabulary and encourages expressive communication.
- Engagement and Replayability 5/5
- Suitable for large groups and always results in lots of laughter.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Durable cards with no small pieces to worry about.
I Need a New Butt! The Game
Dive into a popping frenzy! A game where strategy meets fun, perfect for family game nights.
Pros
- The game is inspired by the best-selling book by Dawn McMillan and Ross Kinnaird, making it a hilarious and unique addition to your game collection.
- The game’s concept of finding a new butt is silly and entertaining for both kids and adults.
- The Butt Popper and Butt Cheek Tiles add an extra level of fun to the game.
Cons
- The game may not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with toilet humor.
- The setup of the game can be a bit time-consuming.
- The game is designed for 2-4 players, so it may not be ideal for larger families or groups.
I Need a New Butt! The Game is easy to learn and provides endless laughter for players of all ages. The kids board games concept of finding a new butt is silly and entertaining, and the Butt Popper and Butt Cheek Tiles add an extra level of fun to the game.
The game is inspired by the best-selling book by Dawn McMillan and Ross Kinnaird, making it a hilarious and unique addition to your game collection. However, the game may not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with toilet humor. The setup of the game can be a bit time-consuming, and the game is designed for 2-4 players, so it may not be ideal for larger families or groups.
- Educational Value 3/5
- This game offers basic strategy and pattern recognition but lacks deeper educational content.
- Engagement and Replayability 4/5
- The popping mechanism is fun and engaging, and the game has decent replay value.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Made of sturdy materials, but small pieces might be a concern for very young kids.
BATTLESHIP
Dive into the thrilling seas of strategy with Battleship! Plot your maritime moves, launch your torpedoes, and sink your opponent’s fleet. Perfect for intense one-on-one naval duels!
Pros
- The game is easy to set up and play, making it a great choice for kids ages 7 and up.
- The portable battle cases make it easy to take the game on the go, so you can play it anywhere.
- The Salvo feature lets advanced players launch multiple attacks, adding an extra level of strategy to the game.
Cons
- The game is only designed for two players, so it may not be the best choice for larger families or groups.
- Some players may find the game to be too simplistic, especially if they’re looking for a more complex strategy game.
- The plastic construction of the game pieces may not be as durable as some other board games.
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting family board game for kids, then the Hasbro Gaming Battleship Classic Board Game is a great option and one of the classic strategy games. With realistic-looking naval crafts, this game of naval combat is a fun way to bring together competition, strategy, and excitement.
We recently played the Hasbro Gaming Battleship Classic Board Game and had a blast. The game was easy to set up and play, and we loved the realistic-looking naval crafts. It was fun trying to sink each other’s ships and strategizing our moves.
One of the things we really liked about this game was the portable battle cases. They made it easy to take the game on the go, so we could play it anywhere. And the Salvo feature was a nice touch that added an extra level of strategy to the game.
However, we did find that the game was only designed for two players, so it may not be the best choice for larger families or groups. And some players may find the game to be too simplistic, especially if they’re looking for a more complex strategy game. Additionally, the plastic construction of the game pieces may not be as durable as some other board games.
- Educational Value: 4.5/5
- The game teaches strategic thinking, planning, and prediction. Players learn to anticipate their opponent’s moves and make decisions based on limited information. It also fosters spatial reasoning as players try to deduce the location of enemy ships. Score
- Engagement: 5/5
- Battleship is a classic game that has captivated players for generations. The thrill of guessing and the excitement of a hit, combined with the suspense of protecting one’s own fleet, ensures players remain engaged throughout.
- Safety: 5/5
- The game is made of plastic, and there are no small parts that pose a choking hazard. The game is suitable for kids aged 7 and up, reducing the risk of misuse. The portable battle cases also ensure that all pieces are stored safely, minimizing the risk of lost or stray pieces.
Pros
- Classic gameplay that’s been entertaining families and friends for over 40 years.
- Fun way to get kids moving and active, especially during indoor playtime.
- Great game for parties and family game nights.
Cons
- Can be difficult for younger children to understand the rules and get the hang of the gameplay.
- The vinyl mat can be slippery, which can make it challenging to stay balanced.
- The game can get a bit repetitive after playing it multiple times.
We recently played the Hasbro Twister Party Classic Board Game with our family, and it was a blast for all age groups. The gameplay is simple but challenging, and it’s a great way to get everyone moving and interacting with each other. We loved how the game can be played with just two people or with a larger group, making it a versatile option for different occasions.
One thing to note is that younger children may struggle with the gameplay at first, especially if they’re not used to balancing on one foot or using their hands and feet in different ways. However, with a bit of practice, they’ll quickly get the hang of it and start having fun.
- Educational Value 2/5
- More physical than educational, but can help with body awareness.
- Engagement and Replayability 5/5
- Always a hit at parties and gatherings, offering endless laughter.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Durable mat, but players should be cautious to avoid slips and falls.
Monopoly Junior Super Mario Edition Board Game
Dive into the magical world of the Mushroom Kingdom! Play as your favorite Super Mario character, buy properties, and collect coins. With iconic sound effects and familiar scenes, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane for parents and a thrilling new adventure for kids!
Pros
- The game features Super Mario characters and themes, making it exciting and engaging for kids who love the franchise.
- The gameplay is fast-paced and easy to understand, making it a great introduction to the classic Monopoly game.
- The game includes gaming sound effects that add to the excitement of the game.
Cons
- The game may not be as challenging for older kids or adults who are experienced with Monopoly.
- The game requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
- The coins may run out quickly if playing with more than two players
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging board game for kids, Monopoly Junior Super Mario Edition is a great choice.
We recently played Monopoly Junior Super Mario Edition with our 5-year-old niece, and she had a blast. The gameboard features scenes and themes from the Mushroom Kingdom that Super Mario fans will recognize, including Yoshi’s Hill, Cooligan Fields, and Rock-Candy Mines. Players can choose to play as Mario, Peach, Yoshi, or Luigi, and move around the gameboard buying up properties and collecting coins. The player with the most coins at the end of the game wins.
One of the most exciting features of the game is the power-up die, which determines whether or not players get to press the Coin Sound Unit and hear the iconic coin sound from Super Mario. This adds an extra level of excitement and engagement to the game, and our niece loved it.
- Quality & Durability: 4.5/5
- The game is from the renowned MONOPOLY brand, ensuring quality. The materials used are plastic, and the game has received positive reviews regarding its durability.
- Entertainment Value: Score: 5/5
- With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over a thousand reviews, it’s evident that the game offers high entertainment value, especially for kids who are fans of Super Mario.
- Educational Value: Score: 4/5
- While the game is primarily for entertainment, it introduces kids to the concept of buying properties, managing coins, and strategic gameplay.
Hasbro Gaming The Game of Life Game
Navigate the twists and turns of life! Every choice you make leads to a new adventure.
Pros
- The colorful pegs make the game more visually appealing and fun to play.
- Players get to make choices that impact the outcome of the game, adding an element of strategy.
- The investment feature adds an extra layer of excitement to the game.
Cons
- The game can take a while to play, which may not be ideal for younger kids with shorter attention spans.
- The spinner can be finicky and may not work as smoothly as expected.
- Some players may find that the game gets repetitive after a few rounds.
We recently played Hasbro Gaming The Game of Life Game with our family and had a blast. The colorful pegs add a fun and playful element to the game, and it’s always exciting to make big life decisions like whether or not to go to college, get married, or retire early. The investment feature is also a great addition, as it allows players to take a risk and potentially earn more money.
However, we did find that the game can take a while to play, especially if you have younger kids with shorter attention spans. Additionally, the spinner can be a bit finicky and may not always work as smoothly as expected. Finally, some players may find that the game gets repetitive after a few rounds, but overall we still think it’s a great choice for a fun and engaging board game for kids.
- Educational Value 4/5
- Offers insights into life’s milestones, from college to retirement.
- Engagement and Replayability 4/5
- Every game offers different life choices, ensuring a unique experience.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Sturdy components, but contains many small pieces.
Hasbro Gaming Clue Junior Board Game for Kids
A mystery awaits! Dive into a detective adventure and solve the case of the broken toy.
Pros
- The game is easy to understand and play, making it perfect for kids aged 5 and up.
- The broken toy mystery theme adds an extra level of excitement and intrigue to the classic Clue gameplay.
- The game encourages strategic thinking and deductive reasoning skills in children.
Cons
- The game may become repetitive after multiple plays, as there are only a limited number of possible outcomes.
- The game board and pieces are made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The game may not be as enjoyable for older children or adults, as it is designed specifically for younger kids.
We found that the Hasbro Gaming Clue Junior Board Game for Kids was a hit with our young detectives. The broken toy mystery theme kept them engaged and motivated to solve the case, while the classic Clue gameplay provided a familiar and enjoyable experience. The game was easy to understand and play, and our kids quickly caught on to the strategy and deductive reasoning skills needed to solve the mystery.
The game pieces and board are made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials, but we didn’t experience any issues during our playtime. The game may become repetitive after multiple plays, as there are only a limited number of possible outcomes, but our kids still enjoyed playing it multiple times.
- Educational Value (4/5)
- Enhances deductive reasoning and observation skills.
- Engagement and Replayability (4/5)
- A fresh take on the classic Clue game, suitable for younger players.
- Safety and Durability (4/5)
- Quality components, but contains small pieces that might be a concern.
Mouse Trap Kids Board Game
Build, trap, and win! Dive into a game of zany action and watch out for the trap!
Pros
- Classic gameplay that is easy to learn and understand
- Fun and exciting for kids and adults alike
- Encourages cooperation and counting skills
Cons
- Setup can be time-consuming
- Some parts may be difficult to assemble
- Not suitable for very young children due to small parts
The Mouse Trap Kids Board Game is a great way to spend quality time with your family. The gameplay is simple and easy to understand, making it perfect for kids of all ages. The game also encourages cooperation and counting skills, which are important for children to develop.
One of the best things about this game is how fun and exciting it is. Kids will love watching the Mouse Trap contraption come to life and trying to avoid getting trapped. Adults will enjoy the nostalgia of playing a game they loved as a child.
However, setting up the game can be time-consuming and some parts may be difficult to assemble. It’s also important to note that the game contains small parts, so it may not be suitable for very young children.
- Educational Value 3/5
- Teaches cause and effect through a fun contraption.
- Engagement and Replayability 4/5
- Building the trap is engaging, but setup can be lengthy.
- Safety and Durability 4/5
- Sturdy game components but has many moving parts.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best board games for kids, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the right product for your child’s age and interests. Here are some factors to consider before making a purchase:
Age Range
The first thing to consider is the age range of the game. Most board games will have a recommended age range printed on the box, so be sure to check that before making a purchase. You want to make sure that the game is appropriate for your child’s age and skill level, as games that are too advanced or too simple can quickly become frustrating or boring.
Number of Players
Another important factor to consider is the number of players the game is designed for. Some games are designed for two players, while others can be played with larger groups. Be sure to consider how many people will be playing the game, as well as whether or not the game can be played solo.
Game Length
Game length is also an important consideration. Some games can be played in just a few minutes, while others can take hours to complete. Consider your child’s attention span and how much time you have available to play the game when choosing a board game.
Theme and Interests
Finally, consider your child’s interests and hobbies when choosing a board game. Many board games are themed around popular movies, TV shows, or books, while others are based on specific interests like science or history. Choosing a game that aligns with your child’s interests can make the game more engaging and enjoyable for them.
Overall, when choosing a board game for kids, it’s important to consider the age range, number of players, game length, and theme or interests. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a game that will provide hours of fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular board games for families?
There are many fun board games that families enjoy playing together. Some popular ones include Monopoly, Clue, Scrabble, and Sorry! These games are great for all ages and can provide hours of fun for the whole family.
What are some classic board games for kids?
Some classic board games for kids include Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, and Operation. These games have been around for many years and have remained popular because they are easy to learn and provide a lot of entertainment and are a fun game. Also many of these help with the development of fine motor skills and a cooperative board game will help with social schools. When looking for games for preschoolers, a memory game will make a great board game to help improve their critical thinking skills as they play board games.
What are some good board games for 6-year-olds?
For 6-year-olds, some good board games include Hi Ho! Cherry-O, The Game of Life Junior, and Mouse Trap. These cooperative game are age-appropriate and can help kids develop important skills like counting, decision-making, and problem-solving.
What are some recommended board games for 10-12 year olds?
For older kids, some recommended board games include Settlers of Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Risk. These games are more complex and require strategic thinking, making them great for developing critical thinking skills and an all round good board game. A strategy board game will become the favorite board games for those who love playing game play.
What are some board games that both kids and adults can enjoy?
There are many board games that both kids and adults can enjoy playing together. Some examples include Apples to Apples, Codenames, and Pandemic. These games are fun for all ages and can provide a great bonding experience for families.
What are some of the most popular kids games right now?
Some of the most popular kids games right now include Exploding Kittens, Uno, and Jenga. These games are easy to learn and provide a lot of excitement for kids of all ages.
Our No. 1 Recommended Product
CATAN Junior Board Game
With the highest score of 14/15, this game stands out for its educational value in teaching strategy, negotiation, and resource management. Its replayability ensures that every game is different, offering endless entertainment.
