Best 8 Children’s Board Games of 2024 Reviewed

We explored the top 8 childrens board games. From classics to new hits, these picks are perfect for family fun.
Disclaimer: Clicking our links may result in us earning enough for a new pair of dice, but not enough to quit our day jobs as amateur board game hustlers.
Candy Land coverChutes and Ladders coverGuess Who? cover

The 8 Best Board Games for Childrens: Fun, Laughter, and Learning! When picking the best childrens board games, we focus on fun, ease of play, and educational value. We also love games that get kids laughing and interacting. Our list includes classics that teach essential skills and modern favorites that keep everyone engaged. Whether you’re looking for simple rules, quick playtimes, or strategic thinking, we’ve got you covered. These games promise to turn any ordinary day into a memorable adventure. Get ready to create awesome family moments with our top picks for the best childrens board games!

On this list:

8 Candy Land

Candy Land cover

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

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Candy Land is a classic children’s game that even adults can enjoy. It’s simple, colorful, and helps kids learn colors and counting. The game has been around since the 1940s, and we love it for its nostalgia as well as its simplicity. The characters like King Kandy and Princess Lolly add a whimsical touch that kids adore.

7 Chutes and Ladders

Chutes and Ladders cover

  • Age Range: 3+
  • Players: 2-6
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Chutes and Ladders is another childhood favorite. The game teaches the consequences of good and bad deeds in a fun and engaging way. Kids love the excitement of climbing ladders and the thrill (or despair) of sliding down chutes. The illustrations are vibrant, making it visually appealing for children.

6 Guess Who?

Guess Who? cover

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

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Guess Who? is a great game for children that encourages critical thinking and deductive reasoning. Players ask yes or no questions to guess the opponent’s character. The gameplay is quick, and it’s always fun to see kids’ faces light up when they figure out the answer.

5 Operation

Operation cover

  • Age Range: 6+
  • Players: 1 or more
  • Play Time: 20 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Operation is a fun and slightly challenging board game that improves kids’ fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The goal is to remove various body parts from a patient without setting off the buzzer. It’s hilarious to watch both kids and adults try to keep steady hands.

4 Hungry Hungry Hippos

Hungry Hungry Hippos cover

  • Age Range: 4+
  • Players: 2-4
  • Play Time: 10 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

This game is fast-paced and full of energy. Kids love pounding the lever to make their hippo gobble up as many marbles as possible. It’s chaotic but a lot of fun, making it a perfect choice for children with a lot of energy to burn.

3 UNO

UNO cover

  • Age Range: 7+
  • Players: 2-10
  • Play Time: 30 minutes

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

UNO is a versatile and easy-to-learn card game that’s perfect for children and adults alike. The simple rules make it easy for younger players to understand, and the special action cards keep the gameplay exciting. It’s also highly portable, so you can play it almost anywhere.

2 Catan Junior

Catan Junior cover

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

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Catan Junior is a kid-friendly version of the popular Catan game. It simplifies the game mechanics while still offering strategy and resource management. The pirate theme is a big hit with children, and it’s a great way to introduce them to more complex board games.

1 Ticket to Ride: First Journey

Ticket to Ride: First Journey cover

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

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Ticket to Ride: First Journey is the best children’s board game on our list. It’s a simplified version of the classic Ticket to Ride, making it easier for kids to play. The game is educational, teaching geography and planning skills. The colorful train pieces and adventurous theme keep children engaged from start to finish. It’s the perfect blend of fun and learning, making it our top pick.

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.