Board games are not just for fun. Many of them help kids learn things while they play.
When families sit together and play these games, kids pick up new skills without even trying. Here are some games that teach something useful.
Monopoly
Monopoly is one of the most popular games ever. Players buy places, pay rent and try not to go broke. Kids learn about spending money in a easy way.
They count cash, give change and think if they should save money or spend it. The game also shows them that some moves are risky and they need to think a bit before doing it.
Scrabble
Scrabble is a word game where players make words using letter tiles. Every letter has points. Kids learn spelling and new words just by playing.
They also try to put the word in a smart spot so they can score more points.
Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a fun train game. Players collect cards and build train routes on the map. Kids learn geography because they look at maps and see how cities connect.
The game also teaches planning because you must finish your route fast before someone blocks it.
Catan
Catan is a strategy game about getting resources like wood, brick and wheat. Kids learn how to use what they have and what they should save for later.
They also learn talking and trading because players deal with each other. The kids understand that giving too much help can make the other person win.
Blokus
Blokus is a simple strategy game with colorful shapes. Players put pieces on the board and each piece must touch another piece of same color only at the corner.
Kids learn shapes and how to fit them in the space. They also learn planning because once a place is blocked, they can't use it again.
Solitaire
Solitaire is a classic card game that many kids and adults play on computers, tablets and phones. You can try different versions online like Solitaire.
Kids learn patience and focus because they must move cards in the right order.
It also teaches simple planning because you need to decide which card to move first so the game becomes easier.
Spider Solitaire
Spider Solitaire is a little harder than normal Solitaire. You can play it online at Spider Solitaire.
This game teaches problem solving because players must think a few steps ahead. Kids learn how to arrange cards in the right sequence and how to fix mistakes when they get stuck.
It is a nice way to build concentration and slow thinking skills.