homeschool
homeschool

Good Games

Fun and Educational


Are you looking for some good games? Be careful, or your closet might end up looking like mine!

kids educational games,game closet

And this is only ONE of the places we store our games!

Of course, an educational games recommendation page would not be complete without mentioning checkers and chess. They are appropriate for all ages and are considered two of the most classic games of all time.

In addition to those, I have listed below a few classics for each level (pre-school/kindergarten, early elementary, and middle/high school). Remember, these levels are not set in stone. I know of early elementary students who excel at middle/high school recommended games and high school students who enjoy games listed for younger students. As with all homeschool materials, you need to judge your child's ability when choosing games.

Pre-School and Kindergarten

Pre school and Kindergarten games should be short – 10 to 15 minutes maximum. Spontaneous games are perfect for this age group – see “Types of Games” section At this age, remember the computer is a lot like TV, so use computer games sparingly. This age craves interaction with others, especially parents. Board games for this age teach following rules, play order, patience and taking turns. Beyond that, you don’t need to worry about a lot of challenge or flexibility.

Some classic games to introduce at this age are:
Go Fish
Original Memory
Chutes and Ladders
Trouble


Early Elementary

(Grades 1-3)

Early Elementary children should still be playing short games. Board games may become a little more complex and may require a bit more strategy. Computer games can allow for more repetition and immediate feedback, but computer time should still be limited.

Some great choices for this age are:
Yahtzee
Scrabble
Monopoly/Payday
Chess



Middle/High School to Age 99

Once children enter late elementary/middle/high school they are ready for more time consuming games, especially if they are experienced game players. Look for strategy and logical thinking games. There are many organizations that judge games for various qualities. Look for the MENSA Society seal on the box. These are usually great choices. At this age computers allow for an increased engagement time if you can find games that require thinking and not just a nimble finger.

Here are some ideas to get you started:
Blokus
Phase 10 Card Game
Othello
Backgammon





There are thousands of educational games available. Some are good games, some are disappointing. The goal is to have fun with whatever you choose. Different families will like different games. Remember games don’t have to be overtly educational to be a learning experience.

I have included more game ideas on other pages that reference a specific subject. Have fun!


Child Toys - Step by step guides to choosing the right toys for children. Offers great tips on storing and maintaining child toys, as well as ideas on how to make play a more interesting experience for children.


Activities and Games
Free Activities and Games. Find good games and activities suitable for Children and Adults, Indoor and Outdoor. Lots of Games and Activities for School , Party, Home, Youth Group and Social Groups.

Leave this page and return to the Kids Educational Games Overview page





Leave the Good Games page and return to the HBD Home page



Sign up for HBD's
Free E-zine

Published 4 times per year

Email

First Name

Then

Don't worry -- your e-mail address is totally secure.
I promise to use it only to send you Homeschool by Design updates.


Field Trips

homeschool field trip

Organizing Field Trips for Homeschool Groups
Provides you with step-by-step instructions on how to plan a successful homeschool field trip for your support group.

Click here to learn more.


Enjoy This Site?
Then why not use the buttons below, to add us to your favorite bookmark, social web, or RSS feed service?

rss Google RSS button My Yahoo! RSS button My MSN RSS button Newsgator RSS button Bloglines RSS button

Homeschool Top Sites - Best Homeschool Sites on the Internet

Homeschool Gold



Copyright© 2008-2009 Homeschool-By-Design.com