Need something new to do with your tots?
I love spending time in the afternoons playing some games with my younger kids – I have 3 kids that are in the age 5-7 range. They are starting to read, but can’t read really well yet, and things like logic and reasoning aren’t fully developed just yet. So the games they like have to be somewhat simple, but still fun.
There are a lot of different approaches to finding games that they will like: but really, it seems like as long as the game is fun then they will have a blast with it – and of course being able to build some memories of enjoying time together with you will be an added bonus!
Here are 5 of the favorite games that my kids love, and the little adjustments I make so they won’t drive me crazy!
Don’t Break the Ice: Embrace the Smash!
Hasbro Gaming Don't Break The Ice Preschool Game, Board Games for Kids Ages 3 and Up
$13.29 in stock
Features
| Part Number | C2093 |
| Model | C2093 |
| Warranty | No Warranty |
| Color | Multicolor |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2017-06-01T00:00:01Z |
| Language | English |
- FUN KIDS GAME: This Don’t Break the Ice game is an exciting preschool game that has players tapping out ice blocks one by one, as they imagine helping Phillip the Penguin make a new igloo
- INDOOR GAME FOR AGES 3+: The object of this game for kids is to keep Phillip the Penguin on top of the ice, but as the game goes on, the ice blocks start falling. One wrong block and he'll go ker-plop.
- FAMILY GAMES FOR KIDS: Get everyone together for family game night with the Don't Break the Ice game. Players will be on the edge of their seats just waiting for the moment that the penguin falls through
- CHILDRENS GAMES MAKE GREAT GIFTS: If you're looking for family gifts or gifts for kids, board games are a great choice
- HAVE FUN WITH CLASSIC GAMES: From classic tabletop board games to up-and-active toddler games, to party games, Hasbro Gaming is a one-stop-shop for filling your games closet
Original Game: The goal is to knock out ice blocks without letting the penguin fall through.
The Twist: Start with the regular rules, but when the kids’ attention starts to drift, it’s time to switch gears. Transform “Don’t Break the Ice” into “DO Break the Ice!!!” and let your little ones go wild smashing the ice bricks to their hearts’ content.
Sure, it’s not technically a game anymore, but it’s a blast, and that’s what counts. Embracing the chaos can keep the fun going even when the original rules lose their appeal.
Disney Pictopia: Keep it Simple, Keep it Fun
Disney New Pictopia Family Picture-Trivia Game
- Manufacturer's Suggested Age: 3 Years and Up Includes: instructions, game board Material: cardstock, plastic
- Playing Time: 30 minutes or more Number of Players: 2 or More Players Level of Difficulty: beginner
- Battery: no battery used:
Original Game: Players answer Disney trivia questions, with a wagering system to move further along the board.
The Twist: Skip the confusing wagering system, especially for younger kids. Instead, just read the questions, roll the dice, and move along the board.
Better yet, invite everyone to join in—even the adults who were just planning to watch.
By opening up who can answer the questions, you keep everyone engaged and make the game more inclusive.
It’s a great way to turn what could be a frustrating experience into an all-out Disney trivia party.
Candy Land: Sweeten the Rules
Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game For Kids Ages 3 & Up (Amazon Exclusive)
3 used from $12.47
Features
| Part Number | 04700079 |
| Model | 4700 S5 |
| Color | Multicolor |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | Original version |
| Edition | Standard Edition |
| Language | English |
- CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Candy Land when you were a kid. Introduce new generations to this sweet kids' board game
- RACE TO THE CASTLE: Players encounter all kinds of "delicious" surprises as they move their cute gingerbread man pawn around the path in a race to the castle
- NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Candy Land can be a great game for kids who haven't learned how to read yet
- GREAT GAME FOR LITTLE ONES: The Candy Land board game features colored cards, sweet destinations, and fun illustrations that kids love
Original Game: Players move their pieces according to color cards, with special candy cards that can send you backward or forward on the board.
The Twist: Say goodbye to the dreaded candy cards that could turn this game into an endless loop.
Instead, when someone draws a candy card, they don’t move backward or forward. They stay put, pretend to “pick up” the candy from the board, and enjoy an imaginary treat!
This tweak keeps the game moving, avoids frustration, and adds a fun little role-playing element that the kids will love.
Mouse Trap: It’s All About the Trap
Hasbro Classic Mousetrap Game
$24.00 in stock
Features
| Part Number | 1053 |
| Color | Multicolor |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2020-05-13T00:00:01Z |
- The game was reviewed by MENSA for Kids
- Practice valuable skills in construction, cause and effect, and decision-making
- The classic game of mouse-catchin' action
- From the makers of the Cranium game
- REPLACEMENT BALLS- Contains Four Brothers 3 pack of high quality chromium steel balls designed to replace lost balls
Original Game: Players build a contraption and try to trap their opponents’ mouse while moving around the board.
The Twist: Sure, the official rules are fun, but let’s be honest—everyone’s here for the mouse trap.
Once the kids start to lose interest in the actual gameplay, don’t hesitate to just set the contraption off a few times.
The joy of seeing the mouse trap in action is what this game is really about. It’s like a mini Rube Goldberg machine, and it never fails to entertain.
Greedy Granny: Just Make Her Pop!
Goliath Greedy Granny - Take The Treats Don't Wake Granny Game
3 used from $18.60
Features
| Part Number | 30810 |
| Model | 30810 |
| Color | Greedy Granny |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2018-04-04T00:00:01Z |
| Size | Medium |
| Language | English |
- Players swipe treats from granny's tray and push the button on her chair - you never know when she will wake up and send her teeth soaring!
- Bright, high-quality playing pieces
- Unique gameplay that will be sure to create giggles!
- No batteries required
- For 2-4 players, ages 4 and up
Original Game: Players try to sneak treats from Granny without waking her up.
The Twist: Are there even real rules to this game? There are, but who cares?!
The highlight is making Granny pop up and startle everyone.
Whether you’re following the rules or just hitting the button until she pops, the fun lies in the surprise.
This game is all about those big reactions, and you can lean into that without worrying too much about the rules.
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