Best 2025 Childrens Board Games: Top 5 Must-Have Picks

When it comes to childrens games, Candy Land never fails to bring smiles and sweet races to the finish line!

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Candy Land coverOperation coverGuess Who? cover

Choosing the best ‘childrens’ based board games isn’t a simple task. Trust us, we’ve tried! You need to keep those little munchkins entertained while ensuring they learn something new. Our criteria? Simplicity, fun, and just the right amount of challenge. We know firsthand how a good game can transform family nights into unforgettable memories. After playing, laughing, and sometimes fighting over rules, we’ve curated a list of games guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Get ready to discover board games that spark joy and bring out the giggles in every child.

On this list:

5 Candy Land

Candy Land cover

  • Age Range: 3+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

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Candy Land is a classic that brings joy to childrens of all ages. It’s simple, colorful, and teaches basic counting and color recognition. We’ve played it countless times with little ones, and seeing them race to the Candy Castle never gets old. It’s a game that doesn’t require reading, so even the youngest players can join in on the fun. Plus, the delicious candy-themed board makes everyone hungry, so keep some sweets nearby!

4 Operation

Operation cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 1 or more
  • Play Time: 15 minutes

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Operation is a hilarious and tense game that keeps childrens engaged for hours. It’s all about precision, laughter, and a steady hand. We always had a blast hearing that buzzer sound when someone slips up. The game encourages focus and fine motor skills development, which is great for kids. Plus, with so many body parts to remove, the kids will learn a thing or two about anatomy, even if it’s just for giggles.

3 Guess Who?

Guess Who? cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 2
  • Play Time: 20 minutes

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Guess Who? is a favorite amongst children who love asking questions and deducing the identity of their opponent’s mystery character. This game has provided us with countless hours of entertainment. It’s a great way for children to practice deductive reasoning and verbal communication. Kids love flipping down characters and feeling like detectives. What’s more, the game is quick, so it can easily fit into a busy family schedule.

2 The Game of Life

The Game of Life cover

  • Age Range: 8+
  • Players: 2-6
  • Play Time: 60 minutes

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The Game of Life lets childrens experience adulthood in a fun way. From picking a career to starting a family, this board game has been a laughter-inducing staple on our game nights. It’s exciting for kids to make choices and see their consequences—without real-world repercussions! The added element of surprise with the spinner keeps everyone on their toes, and offers a simple introduction to money management.

1 Ticket to Ride: First Journey

Ticket to Ride: First Journey cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 15-30 minutes

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We saved the best for last! Ticket to Ride: First Journey is a fantastic way to introduce childrens to the world of strategy games. With a simpler rule set than its predecessor, it’s perfect for younger players. The excitement of building train routes across the map keeps everyone engaged and strategizing. It’s an active game that enhances planning and spatial skills. Plus, the charming train pieces capture their imagination. The best part? It sparks a sense of adventure in kids, making every game night a fun journey!

Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.