As a parent, you’re always looking for games that will entertain your children but are also good for their development. It’s a balance between screen time, TV, and enriching activities. Here we’ll talk about 10 educational games that your kids will love. Plus, many of them are ones you may have grown up playing.
1. Apples to Apples Junior
We all know and love Apples to Apples. Did you know that there’s a junior version? The hilarious word game is just as fun for kids. Children will learn vocabulary words and thinking skills while playing this educational game. Kids will also learn the difference between nouns and verbs while having a blast.
2. The Oregon Trail
First developed in 1971, the Oregon Trail is a classic educational game. Today, the game may have better graphics, but the storyline is the same. Kids will get a history lesson about pioneer life while also using problem-solving skills. They will learn about taking risks and the consequences that might follow.
3. PBS Kids Games
According to PBS Kids, they take a 360-degree approach to learning and reaching children. PBS Kids leverages the full spectrum of media and technology to build knowledge, critical thinking, imagination, and curiosity. Plus, the website and PBS apps are a safe space for kids that you can trust. It’s a high-quality resource to aid with your kid’s development.
4. Minecraft
Minecraft has an educational edition with a variety of games. Kids can explore space with NASA or learn using AI. There’s also a place where kids can try coding through game design. Anyone with a Microsoft account can buy Minecraft Education.
5. Duolingo
If your child is learning a new language, a fun game called Duolingo can help. The app uses things like points, levels, and rewards to motivate users to improve their language skills. There are many languages available so it’s accessible to people worldwide.
6. National Geographic Kids
National Geographic offers games that focus on science, geography, and wildlife. There are plenty of visuals and interesting facts to keep kids engaged. While having fun, kids learn about ecosystems and the world around them.
7. Hide and Seek
A classic game of hide and seek can be educational and fun. Hiding takes patience, problem-solving skills, and impulse control. Seeking forces a child to think like someone else would to find a good hiding spot. Ultimately, kids will have fun while furthering their development.
8. Puzzles
Puzzles create an enjoyable learning activity for kids. Puzzles challenge kids to pay attention, improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, and problem-solve. It will also help them with memory and spatial relationships. Choose a puzzle that is interesting to your kids and make sure to take brain breaks.
9. Uno
Another classic game, Uno is also educational. Kids can learn new vocabulary words like skip, reverse, and draw two. The game also promotes communication, reading, and comprehension skills. Plus, basic arithmetic skills are needed.
10. Jenga
Jenga is another fun game that can have educational benefits. Kids will learn decision-making skills and will work on their fine motor skills. Jenga can also help children work in teams. Patience and analytic skills are all needed to observe their opponent’s moves and plan their next move.
Finding Educational Games
Finding educational games for your kids doesn’t have to be expensive. Some of the most educational games are free or affordable. Many of the games we grew up playing are just as educational as some of the new toys and games today.