51+ Best Educational Board Games for K-12 Learning Fun

<>img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:10.681818181818%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:83.095238095238%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:129.45638432364%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-16::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-16{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-17::before{padding-top:30.21978021978%; }img#mv-trellis-img-17{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-18::before{padding-top:93.59375%; }img#mv-trellis-img-18{display:block;}

This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

The best educational board games of 2024 focus on mathreadingSTEAMlife skillsand more.

If you’re looking to add to your educational games collectionyou definitely need to take a look at these amazing best educational board games for kids K-12.

I’ve used these with my kidsas well as in the classroom before I began homeschoolingand can honestly say they’re as good as they get!

These games are perfect for all agesand they’re a great way to have some fun while learning at the same time.

BelowI’ll provide a little background about using games for learningbut if you’d likeyou can skip to the list of 51+ educational board games for K-12 learning fun!

Educational Board Games and Learning Board Games

I decided to compile a list of the very best educational board gamesincluding a short description/review.

For your convenienceI have even separated these games into appropriate age levels. I have also labeled the subjects that can be learned by playing each game.

Please keep in mindwe play most of the games on this list as an entire familywith many many overlapping ages. Don’t let the recommended age range lock you into unnecessary boxes.

If you’re looking for subject-specific board gamesyou can navigate to those more targeted articles using the links inside the bulleted list below.

• Reading Board Games – Whether your preschooler is learning to read or your teenager needs some help with spelling or reading comprehensionthese reading board games are sure to benefit your child’s studies.
  
• Math Board Games – If your child needs to improve his or her confidence in maththese math board games need to be added to your board game closet! There are ideas for elementary through high school so go take a look. Or if you have younger elementary-aged kidscheck out this list of fun math games for kids.
  
• STEM Games for High School – These STEM games are specifically designed to give high schoolers a more advanced STEM education. They make great classroom additions or Christmas gifts!

I’ve also got some affordable educational card games here if you’re looking for something compact and frugal.

Or use the master list below (51+ board games!!) as a guide for the next time you are shopping for an educational game. Whether you need a birthday giftan Easter or a Christmas giftor just an addition to your next friends and family game night.

Every game idea included in this article would also work well for your next gameschooling adventure! They can also double as the best board games for youth groups since most of these games work for numerous players.

However you choose to use this listI hope you enjoy!

Happy Learning!

Types of Learning Board Games

There are so many different types of learning board games out there! It can be tough to know where to startbut luckily we’re here to help.

Here are just a few of the many different types of games that can help kids learn:

• Memory games: Memory games are great for helping kids to improve their memory and concentration skills. One popular memory game is Simon Sayswhere players have to remember and repeat a sequence of actions.
• Word games: Word games are perfect for helping kids expand their vocabulary and improve their spelling skills. Scrabble is one classic word game that’s been around for decadesand there are also many newer games like Word Whomp that are just as fun.
• Logic games: Logic games help kids to develop critical thinking skills by challenging them to solve puzzles and brainteasers. Classic logic games like chess and checkers have been around for centuriesbut there are also many new logic games like SET that are very popular.
• Strategy Games: Strategy games help kids to learn how to plan ahead and think about their moves carefully. One classic strategy game is Riskwhere players have to conquer the world by strategically placing their armies on the board.
• Cooperative Games: Cooperative games promote teamwork and social interaction as players work together to achieve a common goal. One popular cooperative game is Pandemicwhere players have to work together to prevent a global outbreak of disease.

These are just a few of the many different types of learning board games out there – there are literally hundreds to choose from! So if you’re looking for a fun and educational way to help your kids learnbe sure to check out some board games.

Top Benefits Of Educational Board Games For Kids

When it comes to learning board games for kidsthere are plenty of benefits. Here are several:

• Improved Memory
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Developed Strategy and Long-Term Thinking
• Communication Skills
• Emotional Intelligence
• Patience
• Perseverance
• How to Win
• How to Lose
• Being a Good Sport

This isof coursein addition to any schooling subjects such as mathhistorygeographyreadingand so on that you might be engaging in.

Free Printable Games

Did you know that in addition to the list of amazing games belowI’ve got a collection of free printable games?

If you like including games in your child’s studiesyou need to grab this free printable collection of games.

This collection includes 11 printable games (50 pages) for your kid to enjoyno matter where you are! Enjoy in the carat the deskor on the living room floor.

And the best part is these printable games are educational too!

Grab your collection of free printable games now!

Perfect for ages 3-13.

The Best Educational Board Games for Preschoolers (Ages 34and 5)

Do you have a preschooler? These educational board games are perfect for preschoolers or any child between the ages of 3 and 5. Add them to your preschool days or include them in your child’s next playdate.

Monopoly Jr

Ages 5 and up – 2-4 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Monopoly Jr.

• Math
• Money Management
• Cooperation
• Memory Skills
• Strategy
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

Monopoly Jr is a fun way to work on math skills with younger kids. This is a very simplifiedchild-friendly version of the many other Monopoly games (and yesthere are A LOT!)

Practice additionsubtractionand money-handling skills with your preschoolers.

Robot Turtles

Ages 4 and up – 2-5 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Robot Turtles

• STEAM
• Coding
• Cause and Effect
• Strategy
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

Before kids can learn to codethey must first understand the concept of coding. That isthat every action has a reaction and every robot will follow your commands to a T.

Robot Turtles is a fun and simple learning board game that teaches kids these concepts – and they don’t even know it! That’s what makes this game such a great educational game for kindergarten and up.

Using the instruction cardsplayers must guide their turtle step-by-step across the game board. This kids learning game is perfect for young children ages 4 and up (so preschoolers).  

Fun Fact – Robot Turtles actually got its start as a Kickstarter! Our friend bought it for us off of Kickstarter years ago. I must say we have nearly loved this game to death! It’s probably time for a replacement…

My First Castle Panic

Ages 4 and up – 1-4 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in My First Castle Panic

• Strategy
• Long-Term Thinking
• Teamwork and Cooperation
• Sportsmanship

My First Castle Panic is a preschool-friendly version of Castle Panic (featured below). There is no reading requiredmaking it perfect for littles. This is one of the great children’s board games age 4 and up will love!

Similar to the original version of the gameMy First Castle Panic encourages teamworkcooperationand long-term thinking. Kids must work together to protect their castle from the trolls. This game is lots of funand great for the emotional development of young kids.

Camp

Ages 4 and up – 2-8 players

  

 

Subjects and Skills Learned from Camp

• Science
• Geography
• STEM
• Outdoors Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Animal Facts
• Animal Recognition

Camp is an educational game that focuses on the great outdoors. In this gameplayers need to answer some questions. The set includes a decoder that helps you see all the answers and special cards with fun facts that don’t require an answer.

In the beginningeveryone gets to choose what level they want to play. The game includes questions for different age groups about nature. This game is a lot of fun and is a good way to teach kids about the great outdoors from the comfort of their home (or campsite).

There are 400 questions and 99 fun facts in this gamemeaning there are plenty of opportunities to learn every time you play.

Question examples: What is a group of birds called? Which planet looks red in the night sky?

Hint: there is a separate booster pack with more questions available.

The Best Educational Board Games for Elementary Kids (678and 9-year-olds)

If you’ve got a child in elementary school (think ages 6-10) these are the games for you! Take a look at our homeschool’s favorite educational board games for elementary kids.

Math Rush

Ages 8 and up – 1-5 players

Subjects and Skills Learned in Math Rush

• Addition
• Subtraction
• Speed Math
• Basic Math Skills
• Critical Thinking Skills
• STEAM
• Cooperation
• Sequencing

And if you buy versions 2 and 3you will also learn:

• Multiplication
• Division
• Fractions
• Exponents
• Percentages
• Decimals

Math Rush is a game I recently discovered from Genius Games. This is a fantastic academic game for students!

If your kids enjoy learning through play but struggle with basic math factsthen this is the game for them. With Math Rushyour kids will get better at speed math and elementary-level addition and subtraction skillsall while having fun.

In Math Rushplayers must balance speedstrategyand sequencing skills in a rush to crunch numbers before the timer runs out. Players must work as a team to beat the clockmaking this the perfect math-based cooperative game.

There are currently three versions of Math Rush. The first version focuses on addition and subtractionthe second version focuses on multiplication and exponentsand the third version focuses on decimalspercentagesand fractions.

Go to Genius Games to get your copy of Math Rush today! Get 15% off your first order with code 15%OffFirstOrder. Or you can buy your copies on Amazon instead.

Math Rush is perfect for kids (and adults) who are good at math concepts such as addition and subtractionmultiplicationexponentsdecimalsfractionspercentagesand morebut need to get better and/or faster.

Math Fluxx

Ages 8 and up – 2-6 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned from Math Fluxx

• Sequencing
• Critical Thinking
• Attention To Detail
• Fractions
• Working Towards Goals
• Addition
• Subtraction
• Multiplication
• Division
• Complex Math Rules

Math Fluxx is the perfect game for math lovers of all ages! If your looking for math board games project ideasthis is a great place to start.

Players use positive integers to achieve mathematical Goalswith the added challenge of Special Victory Rules that require even more arithmetical acumen. With Math Fluxxthe fun is exponential!

Covalence

Ages 8 and up – 2-4 players

Subjects and Skills Learned in Covalence

• Science
• Covalent Bonding
• Organic Chemistry
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Logic and Deduction

If your kids are studying science or chemistrythen Covalence is a good board game for them. Covalence is a game that teaches kids about atomsmoleculesbondsand elementsall through play. It’s a pretty complex game but it is a ton of fun and a good way to challenge your brain and do some actual learning. Get your copy of Covalence now! Use code 15%OffFirstOrder to get 15% off your first order.

This game is cooperative so players work together to build the desired compounds. Make sure you go into this game with basic chemistry knowledge. It’s more of a review game than a teaching gamebut if you are learning these topics in your classroom right nowCovalence is a great way to review and solidify.

Covalence game instructions are a little tricky to understand at firstbut thankfully there is a qr code on the box that takes you to a descriptive YouTube video. Watch this video to really learn how to play.

Maestro Mastery

Ages 5 and up – 2 or more players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Maestro Mastery

• Music History
• Composers
• Music Appreciation
• Memory
• Famous Pieces of Music
• Critical Thinking
• Musical Eras

Introducing Maestro Masterythe perfect game for music lovers of all ages! Test your knowledge of music history and composers with this fun and challenging matching game.

Using the included playing cardslearn about all your favorite composers and their most famous pieces. Whether you’re a classical music fan or just getting startedthis game is sure to entertain and educate. So gather your friends and family and see who can become the ultimate Maestro Master!

Professor Noggin’s President’s Trivia Game

Ages 7 and up – 2-8 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Professor Noggin’s Presidential Trivia Game

• US History
• American Government
• Critical Thinking
• Memory Skills

I have never personally played this gamebut it comes highly recommended by several of my readers.

This game is officially called Professor Noggin’s Presidents of the United States Trivia Card Gamehowever for simplicity’s sakeI will shorten it to Professor Noggin’s Presidential Trivia.

In this trivia card gamekids will get to learn and study facts related to the past presidents of the United Stats of America. This game comes with 30 cards that combine factstrue and false questionsand multiple choice questions to create a fun yet challenging trivia based history game.

If your kids are currently studying American History or the US Governmentconsider adding Professor Noggin’s Presidential Trivia to your board game collection.

Or consider these other trivia based games from Professor Noggin.

 

Mobi

Ages 8 and up – 2 or more players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Mobi

• Addition
• Subtraction
• Sequencing
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking

If you’ve ever played Scrabble or Bananagramsyou’re going to love Mobi. Mobi is very similar to those word gamesonly you’ll be completing mathematical equations instead! Perfect for kids who need to master their addition and subtraction facts.

Trekking The National Parks

Ages 10 and up – 2-5 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Trekking The National Parks

• Geography
• Cooperation
• Memory Skills
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

Have you seen this fun learning game, Trekking The National Parks? It’s a very popular 4th grade board game.

Trekking The National Parks is a new game that has high reviews and comes highly recommended by homeschoolers all over. Geography becomes a familiar topic as your kids learn about all the country’s National Parks.

Kids learn facts about each park such as what kind of plants and animals you will find in each locationand what state (or states) each park is in.

Trekking the National Parks is both fun and educational. Perfect for the family who loves traveling! (Or the family who wishes they could travel more!)

Monopoly National Parks Edition

Ages 8 and up – 6+ players (more if you get creative with the pieces

  

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Monopoly National Parks Edition

• Geography
• Math
• Money Management
• Cooperation
• Life Skills
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

If you’re looking for another way to switch up your geography studydid you know there is a fun National Parks Monopoly edition?

Monopoly is a fun game that teaches so many skills. Specifically math skills.

But with this unique editionas your pieces are going around the game boardyou can learn more about the National Parks associated with each square.

Blokus

Ages 5 and up – 2-4 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Blokus

• Math
• Strategy
• Spatial Relationships
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

Blokus is one of the year’s most popular board games.

We finally jumped on the bandwagon a few weeks ago and got our own copy. Even though this is only a 4-player gameit is easy to add more players to teams.

In Blokuseach player starts with a corner of the board and a pile of colored Tetris-like shapes. Each piece you play must touch another piece of the same color.

It’s a lot of fun trying to get as many pieces of your own color on the board as you can while blocking the other players!

While Blokus doesn’t use math equations or numbers persedealing with patternsshapesand colors definitely develops the math portion of the brain.

This game has made many best rated family board game lists and for good reason! Your family will love playing this classic board game.

Add Blokus to your fun board game collection today!

Problem Solved!

Ages 5 and up – 2-4 players

Subjects and Skills Learned in Problem Solved!

• Math Skills
• Speed Math
• Math Facts Memorization
• Addition/Subtraction
• Multiplication/Division
• Team Playing

Problem Solved! is a simple yet fun card game that focuses on teaching kids basic math facts in a fun and engaging way. Elementary-aged kids can use this game to learn and practice math skills such as additionsubtractionmultiplicationand divisionand they can do this either with an adult or with siblings/friends.

I have never played Problem Solved! personallybut I had a reader recommend it to me and now I’m intrigued. I’ll probably be adding this to my kid’s stocking this Christmas. It seems like a fun and simple educational card game that is inexpensive too! Get your copy of Problem Solved! now!

Skillmatics Guess in 10

Ages 5 and up – 2-6 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Skillmatics Guess in 10

• World History
• US History
• World Geography
• US Geography
• Science
• Life Skills
• Critical Thinking

There are actually many versions of the Skillmatics game spanning over several topics but they all pretty much play the same way.

One player draws a card. The other players must guess what is on that card in 10 questions or less. Players must ask intelligent questions in order to guess before they are out of turns. Of course there are clue cards to aid you in your questwhich only ups the educational value of this game.

This game is perfect for ages 8 and up and would make a great addition to any homeschoolclassroomor family game night.

Check out all the Skillmatics games now!

Scrambled States of America

Ages 8 and up – 2-4 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Scrambled States of America

• Geography
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking
• Spelling
• State Facts
• Observation
• Memory

Scrambled States of America is a great game for anybody focusing on United States Geography.

Are you looking for a fun and unique way to learn about all 50 states? This educational board game is perfect for kids and adults alike. Players will test their reflexes and observation skills as they try to quickly match state cards to challenge cards.

The first player to collect the most state cards wins! But don’t let the simple rules fool you – this game is surprisingly challenging and addictive! So whether you’re a geography buff or just looking for a fun way to pass the timeScrambled States of America is the game for you!

Proof!

Ages 9 and up – 2-6 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Proof!

• Math Skills
• Math Facts and Memorization
• Mental math
• Addition/Subtraction
• Multiplication/Division
• Square Roots

Proof takes just 15 minutes to play making it perfect for families who just need a quick break. This fast-paced game challenges your kids to race to create equations that are accurate. This game is good for those who need to practice mental math or put their brains to the test.

Tri-Facta

Ages 6 and up – 2-4 players

  

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Tri-Facta

• Math Skills
• Math Facts and Memorization
• Addition/Subtraction
• Multiplication/Division

My dad bought us the addition and subtraction version of Tri-Facta years and years ago. It wasn’t until I was writing this article that I realized there is also a multiplication and division version. Looks like I’ve got another learning game on my bucket list!

Tri-Facta isn’t what I would call an exciting game. It’s more of a fun way to practice math than a family game night resource. But if your kids enjoy practicing math facts in a new and interesting wayor if you just need a new way to help them master maththen this might be a good resource for you.

Each player is given a stand for their number tiles. The board includes spots for 3 number tiles. Players need to put their numbers into these spots so that each number works together to create a true equation.

For example – You could use the tiles 45and 9.

4 + 5 = 9 and 5 +4 = 9. 9 – 5 = 4 and 9 – 4 = 5. So these tiles could be used and gotten rid of. Once you’re out of tilesyou win!

Story Cubes

Ages 6 and up – 1 or more players

       

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Story Cubes

• Reading
• Writing
• Story Telling
• Creative Thinking
• Language Arts

Looking for a fun and creative way to get your kids telling stories? Look no further than Story Cubes!

In this unique gameplayers roll the dice and then make up a story using whatever is on the die face. This game is great for helping kids think creatively and encouraging kids to become storytellers! Plusit’s just plain fun!

So gather your family and friends and get ready to tell some stories with Story Cubes!

Engineering Ants

Ages 5 and up – 2-4 players but we regularly play it with 8 or more

Subjects and Skills Learned in Engineering Ants

• STEAM
• Cooperation
• Memory Skills
• Strategy
• Problem Solving Skills
• Creativity
• Math
• Spatial Relationship
• Teamwork
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

My son got Engineering Ants for his birthday a few years ago and let me tell youhe has loved this game.

Unfortunatelywe seem to have lost a number of pieces. It’s probably time to replace it. But if ever there was a game that you bought again due to lost piecesit was this game.

In Engineering Antsyou’ve got a bunch of ants who need to get to the picnic basket (assuming I’m remembering correctly) and there are a bunch of obstacles in their way.

You are given a box of random supplies and building materials and you have to use these materials to build contraptions that will help you get around the obstacles.

There are a lot of creative thinking and problem-solving opportunities in this game which makes it one of the best board games for developing critical thinking skills.

Definitely a win for the STEAM-loving child.

Engineering Ants is another cooperative game which means all my kids can play together without fighting. I like that too!  And bonus – cooperative games like this also enhance kids’ social skills.

Astronomy Fluxx

Ages 8 and up – 2-6 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Astronomy Fluxx

• Astronomy
• Space Exploration
• Planets
• Meteors
• Moons
• Galaxies
• History (of space exploration)
• Constellations

Are you studying outer space and astronomy? Astronomy Fluxx is the game for you!

Are you ready to explore the universe? With Astronomy Fluxxyou can! This exciting card game is perfect for anyone interested in learning about space and astronomy. This game includes stunning NASA photography your space lover will appreciate.

Students of astronomy will learn about the planets and other objects within our solar system and beyondas well as the history of humankind’s space exploration. So strap on your space suit and get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure!

Horse-Opoly

Ages 6 and up – 2-6 players (more if you get creative with the pieces)

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Horse-Opoly

• Math
• Money Management
• Cooperation
• Memory Skills
• Horse Facts
• Strategy
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

I am raising a horse-loving fanatic and she definitely agrees that Horse-Opoly is her very favorite game.

I know you wouldn’t normally think of this game as particularly educational (besides math skills) but I was actually surprised at this game’s features.

When you land on a space and have the option to buy a horseeach card has a fun fact about that horse species. My daughter has learned so much about horses this way! What a fun way to learn about science and the world around us!

Castle Panic

Ages 6 and up – 2-6 players but we regularly play it with 8

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Castle Panic

• Strategy
• Long-Term Thinking
• Teamwork and Cooperation
• Sportsmanship

Castle Panic is a beloved game at our house. In factit’s probably one of our most-requested educational family games. This is one that all seven kids can regularly agree on.

Our very favorite part about Castle Panic is that it’s a cooperative game. Meaning all players play on the same team.

Cooperative games are great for instilling social skillsteamworkand cooperation amongst a group.

When everybody is on the same teamplayers are encouraged to work together and strategize to come up with a plan of action during gameplay.

In Castle Panicit’s the players against the board. You start with a castle-like structure in the center of the board. Trolls and goblins creep from the outer edges towards the castle. Players must use their fighter cards to knock down the monsters before they reach the castle.

Only certain cards can attack certain monsters. So you must combine forces and see what cards everybody else has and in what order cards need to be played for optimum results.

Castle Panic is a game that really teaches kids (and adults!) how to work together as a team.

Plus it’s a lot of fun! Even when you lose (which is often!) you’re having a great time.

Or for a simpler versionconsider My First Castle Panic for a game that’s easier to winand therefore better for younger kids.

Twister Scrabble

Ages 8 and up – 2-4 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Twister Scrabble

• Reading
• Spelling
• Critical Thinking
• Physical Fitness
• Coordination
• Patience
• Sportsmanship

Now I have not had a chance to try out Twister Scrabble yet.

We were at Target doing some shopping and I strolled through the game section. I love taking a look at new fun games!

I happened to notice this gem sitting on the shelf.

Twister Scrabble is a part of a new series of games known as mashup games. There are a few others available (such as Guess Who Clue for example) and they all look really fun. But the Twister Scrabble game would be a great addition to a spellingreadingor English grammar lesson.  

What a great (and sneaky) way to practice some sight words! Perfect for elementary school-aged children.

According to the back of the boxplayers must spell a word in the typical twister fashion. There are also challenges to use the word in a sentence.

Our house might just be getting a little extra surprise under the Christmas tree this year…

And just so you knowthe price on this game at Target was about half the price I was able to find on Amazon. (That might be because I went shopping on Black Fridaybut hard to say.) Just so you know. If you’re looking for a cheaper price for this particular gamecheck out Target.

Miss Bernard is a Wild Card

Ages 8 and up – 2-4 players but we regularly play it with 8

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Miss Bernard is a Wild Card

• Reading
• Spelling
• Sentence Structure
• Language Skills
• Sportsmanship

Miss Bernard is a Wild Card is a great board game for learning sentence structure. In factthis is probably one of our family’s favorite word games.

In Miss Bernard is a Wild Cardyou have to build a complete sentence. Each sentence must include a silly rhymea verban adjectiveand a noun.

My younger kids really enjoyed playing this game. They had a lot of fun coming up with silly sentences. The older kids and adults had fun too.

For a simple, inexpensive card gamethis is one of the greats.

Bananagrams

Ages 7 and up – 2-10 players making this the perfect learning game for large families

     

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Bananagrams

• Reading
• Spelling
• Sportsmanship
• Critical Thinking

Bananagrams is a great way for kids to practice their spelling and sight words.

If your family enjoys Scrabble at allthen they will definitely like Bananagrams. Bananagrams is kind of like a junior version of Scrabbleonly the rules are less rigid.

You only play off of yourself (all player have their own spot for words) and you race to see how many words you can play before the pile of spare letter tiles runs out.

For larger groupsjust buy two sets of this simple and fun game. The number of players could potentially be limitless.

Mad Libs

Ages 10 and up – 3-8 players

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Mad Libs

• Reading
• Spelling
• Sentence Structure
• English Grammar
• Language Arts
• Creative Thinking

Do you remember playing with those MadLibs notepads as a kid? Wellnow there is a MadLibs game!

I know those were one of my favorite things to play with when I was younger. I have some very fond memories of playing with mad libs.

I bought book after book all the time and my friends and I sure had some giggles filling these funny pages out.

In case you are unfamiliar with themmad libs are a collection of seemingly normal storiesexcept the player fills in the nounsadjectivesand verbs before reading the story.

Once everything has been filled outyou can augh and giggle your way through one hilarious storyall while learning basic grammar and parts of speech.

Kids and families alike can have hours of fun playing (and learning) with this fun resource.

I actually have a bunch of printable mad lib knockoff sheets for you (fill in the blank pages). Or in the meantimeyou should definitely check out this fun new MadLibs game.

Peptide

Ages 10 and up – 2-5 players

Subjects and Skills Learned in Peptide

• Biology
• Science
• Cells
• Organelles
• DNA
• mRNA
• STEM
• Strategy
• Science Vocabulary

The goal of this fun game is to build peptide chains using amino acids. Peptide is an excellent game for kids and adults alikewhether they’re learning about biology or not!

Boggle

Ages 8 and up – 1 or more players

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Boggle

• Reading
• Spelling
• Critical Thinking
• Attention to Detail

Boggle is a classic game that has been around for years.

Why? Because it’s a goodie! Boggle is a fun strategy game that incorporates spelling into a fun and exciting challenge.

Players are presented with a bunch of seemingly random letters and must compete against the timer (and other players) to see how many words they can spell without rearranging anything.

Boggle can be played solo or as a group. In factyou can get as many players are needed into this learning game. Just get more score sheets!

And for young spellersthere is a fun Boggle Jr version that my kids have really enjoyed.

Eye Found It

Officially accommodates 6+ players making this a great game for large family fun

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Eye Found It

• Working Under Pressure
• Visual Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Teamwork and Cooperation
• Sportsmanship
• Attention to Detail

Eye Found It is one of my kids’ go-to games. They love the simplicity of this game. But even though it’s simple enough for even the little players to understand and enjoyit’s also challenging enough that the bigger kids and adults tend to enjoy it as well.

In Eye Found Itplayers work individually as well as on a team. Each player spins to see how far their little person moves. Players draw challenge cards that show what you need to search for on the board – kind of an eye spy or a where’s waldo kind of thing. All players get to move a number of spaces equal to the number of items found (balloons or boats for example.)

The team wins if everybody makes it to the castle before the clock strikes midnight. But everybody moves at different paces so it’s still fun to see who can get their first.

Now one warning – there are not very many circle counters. We often have to use other markers (or just our fingers) but other than thatthe player possibilities are great! (Especially if you get a few little action figures or Lego pieces to stand-in.)

Periodic

Ages 10 and up – 2-5 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Periodic

• Science
• Chemistry
• Elements
• Periodic Table
• Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving

Periodic is the perfect game for anybody who is studying chemistry or the periodic table.

This game is like no other! With its fantastic and engaging themeplayers will have a blast racing around the Periodic Table. They’ll learn about all of those elements we know so well in an easy-to-understand way as they play through this educational board game that’s sure to be enjoyed by everyone.

Photosynthesis

Ages 8 and up – 2-4 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Photosynthesis

• Science
• Biology
• Photosynthesis
• Plants
• Botany
• Ecosystems
• Life cycles

Looking for a fun and challenging strategy game? Look no further than Photosynthesis!

In this gameyou’ll be cultivating your own forestplanting and growing trees to earn points. The twist? The ever-changing sun will cause shadows to fall on different parts of the boardso you’ll need to plan carefully in order to maximize your points.

With beautiful graphics and realistic gameplayPhotosynthesis is sure to provide hours of entertainment. So gather your friends and family and get ready to grow your way to victory!

The Best Educational Board Games for Middle Schoolers (Tweens)

Tweens (middle-schoolers between the ages of 1011and 12) will love these educational board games. They’re funengagingand age-appropriate.

Scattergories

Ages 12 and up – 2-6 players (although we’ve played it with 10 or more)

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Scattergories

• Reading
• Spelling
• Vocabulary
• Critical Thinking
• Sportsmanship
• Language Arts

Scattergories is a learning game that I have been playing for almost 30 years. It is another example of an oldie but a goodie.

In Scattergoriesyou roll a giant die to see what letter of the alphabet you are working with. You then draw a random category cardwhich features 10 different category ideas.

Categories include foodboys namesinsectsmetalsbody partsand so on.

Players have a limited amount of time in which to fill out their category cards with as many answers as possible that begin with the letter shown on the die.

Try and get creative so as to avoid duplicate answers with other players!

As far as I knowthere is no limit to the number of playersmaking this game perfect for large families and groups.

Scattergories is a challenging game that really gets your mind working! It is a good way to practice spelling and vocabulary. For a free printable versioncheck out this free Valentine’s Day Scattergories printable download.

Oregon Trail

Ages 13 and up – 2-4 players

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in The Oregon Trail

• History
• Critical Thinking
• Planning
• Strategy
• Life Skills
• Geography

Did you know The Oregon Trailthe classic computer game we enjoyed 30+ years ago is now a board game? How coll is that!

Looking for an educational board game that’s both fun and informative? Look no further than The Oregon Trail! This classic computer game has been adapted into a board game formatmaking it the perfect activity for rainy days or family game night.

Pretend to travel the Oregon Trail as you learn about history and geography. Work together with your fellow players to overcome obstacles like river crossings and mountain passes. Along the wayyou’ll also get to experience what life was like for early settlers in America. The Oregon Trail is more than just a game – it’s a learning experience that will stay with you long after you’ve put the game away.

So round up your friends and family and get ready for some fun with The Oregon

? x ? = ?

Ages 10 and up – 2-22 players (no kidding)

Subjects and Skills Learned in ? x ? = ?

• Math (Multiplication)
• Strategy
• Problem Solving
• Sportsmanship
• Times Table Memorization

I knowI knowthe name is goofy. But what can I say? It gets the point across. This fun multiplication card game was actually designed by Benjamin Hess from Hess UnAcademy (my husband!) and we are very proud of it.

Don’t let the name fool youthe game itself is pretty great. Maybe I’m biasedbut I truly think this card game can be a great tool for learning and practicing multiplication tables. ? x ? = ? plays very similarly to Go Fish in the sense that players must quest for specific cards from their neighbors’ hands.

The full version includes all times tables from 1-15so this game is actually perfect for ages 7 or 8 all the way to adult. You can make it as complicated or as simple as you choose!

You can read more specifics about this fun times table game by going hereor you can buy the game in all its glory by going here. The game is being fulfilled and distributed by The Game Crafter.

Cashflow For Kids

Ages 12 and up – 2-6 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Cashflow For Kids

• Math Skills
• Money Management
• Financial Literacy
• Life Skills
• Business Minded Principles
• Success Principles
• Correct Mindset

We have never played Cashflow For Kidsbut we have played the regular version of Cashflow in our family many times and I figured it was worth mentioning for those of you with younger kids.

The older version or Cashflow teaches teens and adults financial literacy and how to make sound business and financial decisions. I imagine this game does the same thingonly on a younger level.

Reviews say this game is good for ages 8-14 so depending on the maturity of your kidsthis game might be a good option in your family.

Settlers Of Catan

Ages 10 and up – 2-4 players

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Settlers of Catan

• Strategy
• Sportsmanship
• Resource and Money Management
• Planning and Long Term Thinking

Settlers Of Catan is a beloved strategy game at our house.

We regularly enjoy the simpler family edition as well as the regular version.

In Settlers of Catanplayers must strategically build their settlements in the ideal spots to gain the most (relevant) resources. Use these resources to build and/or trade your way through the game.

Different actions (such as buildingupgradingor hiring knights) gain you points. Once a player reaches a certain amount of pointsthe game is over and that player wins!

It is a really fun game.

If you only have young kids in your house and you have a small familythen the family edition will serve you well. Howeveras your kids (or your family!) growsyou will wish you had bought the regular version.

The regular version of Settlers of Catan allows for expansions. This means more players and more scenarios. The family versionwhile simple and funis somewhat limiting.

Or for families that are into card gamesthere is a card game version of Settlers of Catan that’s fun as well (though best for older children).

Ecosystem

Ages 10 and up – 2-6 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned from Ecosystem

• Science
• Biology
• Ecosystems
• Biodiversity
• STEAM
• Critical Thinking
• Strategy

Ecosystem is a new game from Genius Games that is perfect for teens who are learning about biology. In Ecosystemsplayers must collect cards that they then use to design and build their very own ecosystems. Biodiversity iss rewardedso some critical thinking skills are definitely required.

While this game may seem simpleit’s more complicated than it appears and older players will definitely have to exercise their brains in order to win. But at the same timethis game is simple enough that younger siblings can play along without feeling excluded.

Get your copy of Ecosystem from Genius Games now! Use code 15%OffFirstOrder to get 15% off your first order. or buy your copy of Ecosystem on Amazon instead.

This is quickly becoming a favorite game in our large family.

Pirate’s Cove

Ages 12 and up – 2-5 players

Subjects and Skills Learned in Pirate’s Cove

• Strategy
• Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving
• Sportsmanship

I do not personally own Pirate’s Cove. But we hosted a game night a few weeks back and our friend brought this game. It was so fun we played it the entire night!

Pirate’s Cove is not educational (at least not in the traditional sense of the word) and does not accommodate a large group (only 5 players). But it’s a really fun game that you might want to consider if you’re just looking for entertaining ideas.

In Pirate’s Coveplayers man their own pirate ship. The goal is to sail around the boardupgrading your shipcrewand cannonsall while avoiding other players (including the black pirate ship).

If you come across another playeryou must fight. Die determines the winnerbut stronger ships have die advantages.

It’s really a fun adventure filled with chancestrategyand laughter! Pluswho doesn’t love pirates?

Pirate’s Cove is a game that is a little on the expensive side. I was not impressed with the prices I found online. Feel free to shop around and see if you can find a great deal. Or maybe you’ll get lucky and find it on sale!

The Best Educational Board Games for High Schoolers and Adults

High schoolers (teens) and adults will enjoy all of the educational board games in this section. They are interestinguniqueand not even remotely childish! Perfect for anybody looking to learn a little something extra.

Subatomic

Ages 14 and up – 2-5 players

 

Subjects and Skills Learned from Subatomic

• Science
• Elements
• Periodic Table
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Compounds
• Chemical Bonds

Subatomic is an educational and fun game for kids that teaches them about the building blocks of the universe – subatomic particles! By collecting cardskids can create and assemble different elementsall while learning about chemistry and physics. It’s the perfect way to learn about the world around usand have a blast doing it!

Nerd Words

Ages 12 and up – 2-12 players

Subjects and Skills Learned from Nerd Words

• Science
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Earth Science
• Space
• Geology
• Laboratory
• Medical
• Anatomy
• STEAM
• Critical Thinking
• Team-building
• Cooperation

Nerd Words is a super funif not complextrivia game that focuses on the sciences. Split into two teams and see which team can best decipher each clue and get the correct answer. This is a fun game for large families or teen parties to test their skills and get in some goodcompetitive laughs. Get your copy of Nerd Words now. Use code FreeShippingOver$30 to get free shipping on orders of $30 or more.

Note – this game is more for review of concepts you already are familiar with. It is not a good game for teaching new lessons. Make sure your students have a basic knowledge of science terms spanning across physicschemistrybiologyetc before beginning gameplay. When we played this gamewe were surprised at just how much we did not know.

Cashflow

Ages 12 and up – 2-6 players

   

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Cashflow

• Financial Literacy
• Life Skills
• Business Minded Principles
• Success Principles
• Correct Mindset

If you’re looking to teach your kids financial literacylook no farther than Cashflow.

Based upon the best-selling book “The Cashflow Quadrant“Cashflow starts out with all players in what’s called ‘the rat race’ or the job world.

Players start with a job and a finance sheet and they go around the game board.

They are presented with investment opportunities or ‘capital gains’ cards. The choices players make will determine when (or if!) they are able to get out of the rat race.

Short version – Cashflow walks players through different investment options and opportunities and teaches them how to manage their money to set themselves up for a lifetime of financial success. It’s really quite eye-opening!

Ben and I love this game and regularly reference old lessons when making our own financial decisions.

While this game is difficult for young kids to playCashflow is a great option for kids and adults ages 12+.

If you’re looking for a version that is better suited for young childrenthe maker of the game (Robert Kiyosaki) has released a kids versionCashflow For Kids. I have never played the kids version so I can’t vouch for it. But if it’s anything like the two adult versionsit is definitely top-notch.

Cashflow is a bit priceybut if you’re truly serious about teaching your kids how to get out of ‘the rat race’then it’s definitely worth the investment.

If you want to give Cashflow a try and teach your kids these great conceptsbut you really can’t afford the price point right now (been there) there is an online version you can play for free.

Just create a free account and give it a go! It’s almost as good as the real thing.

Shadows Over Camelot

Ages 10 and up – 2-7 players making this the perfect large family board game

 

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Shadows Over Camelot

• Language Arts
• Historical Fiction
• Myths and Legends
• Strategy
• Teamwork
• Cooperation
• Sportsmanship

Shadows Over Camelot is one of our very favorite games.

We love this game because it is strategic and requires some real effort to win. But at the same timeit’s simple and very straight-forwardmaking it easy for little ones to follow along (at least to a degree).

Shadows Over Camelot is a cooperative gamewhich means you all play as a team.

I especially love to play cooperative games because they reinforce familial relationships without making anybody cry because they ‘lost’.

In Shadows Over Cameloteach player controls a knight of the round table.

These knights must go out on various quests. Each quest won earns a white sword. Each quest lost earns a black sword.

The game is over when the round table is filled with swords. Your team wins if the majority of the swords are white.

It’s a fun gamebut let me warn you – it’s not as easy as it sounds! Those black swords seem to pop out of nowhere sometimes!

This learning game falls into the Language Arts category because it revolves so heavily around the King Arthur and Camelot legends. This is a great game to reinforce any studies of Round Table legends.

This board game is a lot of fun!

Add Shadows Over Camelot to your game library today! I promise you won’t regret it.

Or for a simplerfaster(and cheaper) versiontry the card game!

Pandemic

Ages 10 and up – 2-4 players but we regularly play it with 6+

    

 

Subjects and Skills Learned in Pandemic

• Strategy
• Critical Thinking
• Teamwork and Cooperation
• Problem Solving
• Sportsmanship

Pandemic is another cooperative game. (Can you tell we like cooperative games at our house?)

In Pandemicyou are all working for the WHO (World Health Organization). There are diseases popping up throughout the world and you must work as a team to treatcureand eradicate all these diseases – before pandemic hits!

This is a high-stress game that really keeps players on their toes. Bewarewinning is quite difficult. We probably lose more than we win.

But playing is always a lot of fun and we are always up for a good challenge!

We’ve only ever played the originalbut there are plenty of expansions and other versions if you’re really into this game.

And there you have it! My complete list of the best educational games for kids in large families.

Which one will you try first?

Why We Love Educational Board Games and Learning Games

Playing board games as a family is one of our favorite pastimesand educational board games are some of our favorites. In factwhen we are shopping for gifts for homeschoolerswe often buy them an educational game – because board games are awesome!

We love playing board games so much that we have been known to host a monthly game night for local friends and family.

The kids (and the adults!) all look forward to these monthly game nights.

But did you know that board games aren’t just for game nights? It’s true!

 

Homeschooling families all over the world regularly take part in what they affectionately call ‘gameschooling.’ Game schooling is essentially learning through educational board games.

And there are so very many educational games to choose from!

While writing up this guideI came across SO MANY games that are great for large families that teach school-related subjects and lessons in addition to teamworkpatienceand winning/losing skills, fine motor skillsand so on.

While we do not call ourselves gameschoolerswe have been known to toss aside the regularly scheduled learning activities for an afternoon of learning games.

This method of learning is not limited to fun board games that are educational; not by any means! We use educational video games as well as virtual learning games in our homeschool too.

More Recommended Board Game Resources

If you’re still looking for more board game resourcescheck out these ideas!

 

• Genius Games
• Puzzle Master
• Puzzles Print

And if you liked these gamesbe sure to check back soon! We’ve got plenty of more collection ideas in the works. Including but not limited to:

• Educational games for 5th graders
• Best board games for Kindergartners
• Award winning board games
• Printable board games

Free Homeschool Room Checklist

Many people add educational board games such as these to their homeschool learning spaceor their homeschool room.

If you’re just getting started setting up your homeschool roomyou might be interested in my free homeschool room setup checklist. Let this checklist be your guide as you decide on what to stock your homeschool room with. Grab yours for free now!

Free Printable Games

Did you know that in addition to the list of amazing games belowI’ve got a collection of free printable games?

If you like including games in your child’s studiesyou need to grab this free printable collection of games.

This collection includes 11 printable games (50 pages) for your kid to enjoyno matter where you are! Enjoy in the carat the deskor on the living room floor.

And the best part is these printable games are educational too!

Grab your collection of free printable games now!

Perfect for ages 3-13.