educational video games for 5 year olds

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13 (Secretly) Educational Video Games That Kids Will Actually Like

Yes, it's possible for video games to be fun and educational.

• She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.

Games are a great way to keep kids entertained. It's an added bonus if they're educational. 

Video games have come a long way from the Super Mario Bros. games of the '80s and '90s -- and I'm not just talking about graphics. Developers have gotten super creative at sneaking in educational lessons where kids would least expect them. And one of the best ways to learn is when you're having fun .

In addition, an ongoing study published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open says that kids who play video games daily show improved cognitive skills in comparison with kids who don't play at all. 

Check out our list of mobile apps, PC and video games that can educate and entertain your kids.

What your kids will learn: creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, reading, math and more

Minecraft is available on multiple platforms.

World-building game Minecraft lets players explore, gather resources, craft tools and engage in some mild combat. The game has different modes -- survival, creative, adventure, spectator and multiplayer -- so players have flexibility in how they approach it. 

Creative freedom and self-direction isn't all that the game lends its players, according to iD Tech . Minecraft teaches teamwork and the motivation to improve reading and math skills. To get better at the game, parents told iD Tech that their kids started reading about biomes and calculating rations for adventures, dividing supplies and how many minutes until "night" in the game. Minecraft's educational benefits have also been packaged for the classroom . 

You can play the game on PC, mobile, console, Amazon Fire and Oculus. 

The Oregon Trail

What your kids will learn: historical events, critical thinking, problem-solving skills and more

Are you tough enough to survive blizzards, disease and snake bites in the retro "Oregon Trail" game?

The Oregon Trail came onto the scene in the '70s and has gone through quite a few changes since then. My 10-year-old self spent many an afternoon trying to get my digital wagon 2,000 miles west to safety. Before you start the trip, you pick a job (each has its own unique benefits), name your companions and purchase supplies. 

Recent updates to the game let you trade, upgrade your wagon and buy food and medicine to increase your group's chances of survival. Along the trip, your group encounters illness, obstructive rivers, highway bandits, food constraints and other complications of the time. Though the situations are a bit dramatic, players learn fast about pre-planning and making choices with the long term in mind.

I played (and described above) the 5th edition of the game, which you can order on Amazon. If you want a newer mobile experience, you can try The Oregon Trail: American Settler for iOS or The Oregon Trail from Gameloft on Apple Arcade .

What your kids will learn:  vocabulary

Wordscapes is a fun brainteaser game

Fans of Words with Friends and Scrabble (the app or the board game) may be drawn to Wordscapes, which allows kids to learn new words and practice logic skills. You get unlimited tries to solve crossword-style puzzles using only a handful of letters (with few free hints). The app challenges you on some levels by prohibiting three-letter words and offering daily puzzles that challenge you to guess all the words in a certain order. Wordscapes has a built-in dictionary that makes it easy for kids to add to their vocabularies. You can play on Android and iOS . 

The Little Big Planet series

What your kids will learn: logic, spatial orientation skills, design and problem solving

The Little Big Planet series.

This spunky little game follows the adventures of Sackboy and his friends. The first two games are mostly platform-jumping and avoiding obstacles to make it to the next level. Players can also create their own levels, customize characters or build complex contraptions in a level. Finally, players have the option to share their creations in the PlayStation Network.

The first game, Little Big Planet, was released in 2008  and the creators have released several entries since. Little Big Planet 3 is the newest installment , which introduced three new characters: Toggle, Swoop and Oddsock. The games are available on PSP, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 3. You can also check out Little Big Planet Karting and the free Run Sackboy! Run app on Android and iOS .

Portal series

What your kids will learn:  logic, problem-solving, physics, math, science and spatial skills

Even though this mind-bending puzzle game has been out since 2012, it still feels fresh and inventive. 

Portal is along the lines of Little Big Planet, but it's a bit more mature. The first Portal got a Teen rating for the inclusion of some bloodstains, but Portal 2 is rated E. The games might be a bit scary or difficult for players under 9 , Common Sense Media suggests.

Portal places players in a secret research facility who is led through a series of dangerous tests by a humorously narcissistic AI called GLaDOS. The puzzles are solved by creating an entry portal in a wall, creating an exit portal somewhere else and walking through. Players advance by learning how to manipulate physics and spatial constraints. Just try not to fall forever. Portal and Portal 2 are available on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. 

Kerbal Space Program

What your kids will learn : physics, the solar system, mathematics and basic aerospace engineering

Kerbal Space Program is a lot more than just cute aliens. 

Your kids don't have to play in a cardboard box in the yard if they want to be an astronaut. This rocket simulation game focuses on a space program for an alien race called the Kerbals. When you start a game, you'll be tasked with building a rocket that either works or doesn't work, based on " realistic aerodynamic and orbital physics ." Once you get your Kerbals into space, you can explore the solar system, build bases and construct space stations. The game got a lot of attention from NASA and the B612 Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to planetary science and planetary defense. 

The game has three modes -- Science, Career and Sandbox. Science mode lets players unlock new tech and advance the Kerbals; Career mode has players oversee every aspect of the Kerbal's space program; and Sandbox mode is more freeform play. Kerbal Space Program and its expansions -- Breaking Ground and Making History -- are available for PC and console.

What your kids will learn: trigonometry in its basest form, angles and critical thinking

Eloh is such an addicting, yet satisfying game.

This app is another example of teaching your kids without them knowing they're being taught. Eloh is a visually beautiful musical puzzle game that teases your brain without stressing you out. Each level features island spirits that you can move. Once you get them into the right spot, tap the red speaker and music will start. The goal is to bounce the "sound waves" off the spirits and hit the spiral icon. It's kind of like banking a shot in billiards. 

The levels get progressively more challenging, but there's no timer, ads or in-app purchases. The app costs $3 to download on Android or iOS . 

What your kids will learn: logic, patterns, data analysis and problem-solving skills

Zoombinis was a game I frequently played after school growing up.

If you grew up in the '90s, you might remember this game. Zoombinis kept me busy many an afternoon. In the game, you must guide the little blue critters out of the evil Bloats' clutches and home to Zoombiniville. Each of the 12 levels such as Allergic Cliffs, Stone Cold Caves and Pizza Pass get progressively more challenging, with kids using logic and pattern identification to win. Play on iOS , Android or PC. 

Where on Google Earth is Carmen Sandiego?

What your kids will learn: geography, the locations of historic events and other geographical facts.

Carmen Sandiego is globe-trotting on Google Maps. 

Google Earth and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's Carmen Sandiego games -- The Crown Jewels Caper , The Tutankhamun's Mask Caper and The Keys to the Kremlin -- offer something new while paying homage to the original franchise. Players use the magnifying glass to interview witnesses in different cities and gather clues, learning about geography and history along the way. When you think you've figured out the next step, click the airplane icon to fly to the next city and continue unraveling the mystery. You can play on web browser , Android or iOS . 

Nancy Drew Interactive Mysteries

What your kids will learn:  historical events and important figures, critical thinking, foreign cultures, languages and customs, problem-solving skills and more

The Nancy Drew interactive mystery series is probably my favorite game franchise of all time. 

I will shamelessly say that I have played these games since they started making them in 1998 . Some are based on Nancy Drew books (The Secret of the Old Clock game, for instance, is based on the first four books in the series) while others are original mysteries. 

The point-and-click games let you play as Nancy, solving a mystery as the amateur detective would. Whether you play as a junior or senior detective, you'll question suspects, solve puzzles, discover clues and find your way out of multiple sticky situations to catch the culprit. 

The beauty of these games is that they teach kids without them knowing it. At 9 years old, I knew a ridiculous amount about the Mayan civilization after playing Secret of the Scarlet Hand, as well as the key players in the French Revolution after playing Treasure in the Royal Tower. There are 33 games to date for PC, mobile and certain gaming consoles.

Democracy series

What your kids will learn:  multiple layers of government functions like parties, funding, taxes, elections, policy changes, political capital, budgets, debts and more. In addition, they'll learn about compromise, cause and effect, strategy and conflict resolution.

Can you run a country? 

Has your kid ever wanted to be in politics? Now they can try their hand at it with the Democracy game series. In this government simulation game, you play as the president or prime minister of a democratic government and alter policies in the areas of tax, economy, welfare, foreign policy, transport, law and order and public services. The catch, like in real life, is that each policy affects other factors like voter happiness, crime rates and air quality, for example. Players also have to deal with situations like homelessness or protests and make decisions accordingly. 

You can play Democracy, Democracy 2, Democracy 3 and Democracy 4 on PC.

National Geographic Challenge

What your kids will learn: historical figures and events, geography and more

Trivia fans, anyone?

The National Geographic Challenge is a quiz game that lives up to the "challenge" part of its name. There's no shortage of questions that range from easy to hard and are divided into regions -- North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and Australia. Start a game for up to four players and choose an avatar. You can try to answer 40, 60 or 80 of the game's timed questions. The games are complemented by impressive photography and video from the National Geographic archive.

The National Geographic Challenge will test kids' knowledge with questions like: In what year did Madagascar gain independence from France? In which country does the River Niger reach the sea? The game is available on Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3. 

World Rescue

What your kids will learn: geography, conservation and sustainability, global problems, healthy living and activism

World Rescue is one of the games offered by the institute. 

World Rescue was developed by ZU Digital with the help of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Think of it as a 21st century Captain Planet, minus the superpowers. The game's levels are set in Kenya, Norway, Brazil, India and China. There, you'll help five heroes solve problems like displacement, disease, deforestation, drought and pollution, giving kids lessons on real-world issues. You can play World Rescue on Android or iOS . 

For more, check out our list of the best video games to play in 2021 ,  best online games to play with friends  and  seven great kid-friendly gifts that aren't video games .

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25 Best Educational Games for 5 Year Olds That are SO FUN!

1. SplashLearn’s Online Educational Games for 5 Year Olds 

2. the rubik’s cube , 3. sequence cards, 4. tic-tac-toe , 5. knock the can, 6. alphabet bingo , engaging and easy board games, 7. chutes and ladders , 8. candy land, 9. scrabble jr. , 10. feed the woozle .

Parents of 5 year olds know that this age is a critical time in their child’s development, and finding the right way to help them learn can be challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of fun learning games for 5 year olds that can make the process enjoyable for both parents and children.

Whether you’re looking for ways to teach your child the alphabet or basic math concepts, there are plenty of options. So, let’s get the ball rolling with our list of the best games for 5 year olds!

Looking for more online Math games and ELA games to educate and engage your kids? Here are more games to check out!

List of the Best Educational Games for 5 Year Olds!

With so many different games on the market, we’ve divided our list into categories to make it easier for you to find the perfect game for your child.

Learning Games That Kids Will Definitely Enjoy!

First on our list are classic learning games for 5 year olds that have been around for years. These time-tested games are perfect for helping your child learn the basics, including the alphabet, numbers, shapes, and colors.

Skill Development: Math and reading

Price: Free for teachers and a 7-day free trial for parents. Subscription starts at $4.99 per month

You can find various learning games for 5 year olds online. SplashLearn is a website that offers over 4,000 educational games for kids in grades prekindergarten to grade 5. The games teach children essential math, reading, and spelling concepts. And best of all, they’re fun and engaging.

One of the great things about SplashLearn is that the learning program creates a daily personalized learning plan for your child. This plan will ensure that your child is always working on the concepts they need to learn and they’re able to do so independently.

SplashLearn: Most Comprehensive Learning Program for PreK-5

SplashLearn inspires lifelong curiosity with its game-based PreK-5 learning program loved by over 40 million children. With over 4,000 fun games and activities, it’s the perfect balance of learning and play for your little one.

Skill Development: Helps with cognitive development, motor skills and problem solving

What you need: Rubik’s cube

Not only is the Rubik’s Cube a classic game that’s perfect for helping your child learn about colors and patterns, but it’s also a great way to develop their problem-solving skills. You can help your child get started by teaching them how to solve the first layer of the cube. Once they’ve mastered that, they can move on to solving the entire cube.

Tip: Many online tutorials and how-to videos are available to help your child learn how to solve the Rubik’s Cube.

Skill Development: This game helps with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It’s also a great way to teach your child how to count. 

What you need: A deck of cards

Sequence cards is a classic card game that is perfect for helping your child learn about numbers and patterns. The game aims to lay down cards in numerical order, from 1–10. Not only will they be having fun, but they’ll be learning essential math skills too!

Tip: Make sure to start with an easy level before moving on to the more difficult ones.

Skill Development: This game is a lot of fun and also a great way to teach your child about numbers and strategic thinking.

What you need: A piece of paper and a pencil.

This game is a classic for a reason—it’s easy to learn, and it’s a lot of fun! Draw a grid with nine squares, and label each square with a number from one to nine. Players take turns drawing Xs and Os in the squares, trying to get three in a row. The first player to do so wins the game!

Skill Development: It is a great way to teach your child about aiming and hand-eye coordination. It’s also a lot of fun! 

What you need: An empty can and a softball.

This is a classic outdoor game for active kids. Players take turns throwing the ball at the can, trying to knock it over. The first player to do so wins the game! Your child will love spending time outdoors while playing this game.

Tip: Set up the can at different distances to make the game more challenging.

Skill Development: This game helps with letter recognition and letter sounds.  

One of the most basic games you can play with your child is Alphabet Bingo. Write out the alphabet on each piece of paper, leaving a few spaces blank. The player then draws a letter from a bag or hat and fills the blank space. The first player to fill in all of their spaces wins the game!

What you need: A piece of paper for each player and a pen or pencil.

Tip: You can make the game more challenging by having the player fill in the spaces with words that start with the drawn letter.

Board games for children are a great way to teach them about different concepts. They’re also a lot of fun! Here are a few of our favorites:

The game’s objective is to be the first player to finish by climbing up ladders and avoiding slides (chutes). This is a perfect math game for younger kids, as it doesn’t require any reading. It’s a great way to spend some quality time with your child while they learn important skills.

Skill Development: This classic game is a great way to teach your child about numbers and counting. 

What you need: Chutes and Ladders board, dice, and different colored counters

Tip: Use dice with pictures instead of numbers to make the game more accessible for younger kids.

Candy Land is a classic board game for children. The game is simple—players move their pieces around the board according to the colors of candies they draw from a deck of cards. It is a fun, easy game that young children will enjoy.

Skill Development: It is perfect for 5 year olds, as it helps to develop counting and color recognition skills.

What you need: Candy Land board game

Scrabble Jr. is a great way to introduce your child to spelling and vocabulary. The game is played with two to four players. Players take turns making words with the letter tiles they have been dealt. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins! You can even help them by teaching them the definitions of words they don’t know.

Skill Development: This game is perfect for helping your child expand their vocabulary and learn new words. 

What you need: Scrabble Jr. board game

Tip: Use smaller words and simpler rules when playing with younger children.

This game is about matching shapes and colors. The aim is to get the Woozle fed by matching the right colored food to his mouth. This is an extremely fun game for 5 year olds as it is both fun and educational. Your child will love playing this game, and you’ll love watching them learn!

Skill Development: It’s a great way to help your child learn about shapes and colors and develop their fine motor skills.

11. Guess Who?

Guess Who? is a classic board game that has been around for years. The game’s objective is to be the first player to guess which character their opponent has selected.

To play, each player chooses a card with a character on it. They then take turns asking yes or no questions about the other player’s character, such as “Do they have blue eyes?” The first player to guess correctly wins the game!

What you need: All you need is the game board pack of Guess Who?

Skill Development: It’s a great way to help your child learn about facial features and matching.  

12. Katamino 

A puzzle game that helps kids with spatial awareness. With eighty different challenges to solve, it’s a great way to keep little ones engaged and learning.

You can also play the game with multiple players, making it a great option to spend more quality time with your child.

Skill Development: Katamino is perfect for kids starting to get a handle on shapes and geometry

What you need: Katamino puzzle set

Exhausting Physical Games for Kids

Along with the indoor games, there are a lot of outdoor games for children they can play to have some physical activity in their daily routine. Here are some popular and fun games for 5 year olds.

13. Hula Hoop 

Hula hooping is not only a great workout but also a lot of fun! It’s the perfect game for 5 year olds to play to use up some of their boundless energy. Your kid can practice hula hooping in the backyard, at the park, or even indoors if you have enough space. With some practice, your kid will be a pro in no time!

Skill Development: This physical activity can also help improve coordination.

What you need: One or more Hula Hoops, and you’re good to go!

14. Scavenger Hunt 

A scavenger hunt is a great way to get kids moving and exploring. To play, hide different items around your backyard or house. Then, give your child a list of items they need to find. Once they find all the items on the list, they win the game! Depending on your child’s age and ability, you can make the game as easy or as difficult as you like.

Skill Development: It’s also a perfect opportunity to teach them about nature and the world around them.

What you need: Some items that can be hidden as treasures and some sheets do draw maps or write clues for the hunters.

15. Don’t Let the Balloon Touch the Ground 

All you need is a balloon and an outdoor space. The game’s objective is to keep the balloon from touching the ground. Players can use their hands, feet, or other body parts to keep the balloon aloft. If the balloon touches the ground, the player who last touched it is out! The last player standing wins the game.

Skill Development: This game is great for coordination and gross motor skills.

What you need: A balloon, that’s it!

16. Hide and Seek

Hide and seek is a classic game that children can play anywhere. It’s a great way to get kids moving and exploring their environment. 

Your child can play hide and seek with you, another adult, or even older kids. If you’re playing with younger children, be sure to provide them with some good hiding spots!

Skill Development: It’s the perfect opportunity to teach them about blending with environments and how to use their senses.

What you need: An enclosed area indoors or outdoors, like a small field or in a hall where players can hide

17. Bean Bag Toss 

A bean bag toss is a great game to engage children in physical activity. To play, have your child stand a few feet away from the target and try to toss the bean bag inside. If they succeed, move the target further away. 

If they miss, move the target closer. You can also make the game more challenging by having them toss the bean bag with their eyes closed or from a sitting position.

Skill Development: It is a great way to get kids moving and improve their coordination.

What you need: A bean bag and a target. You can make your target by drawing a circle on a piece of cardboard or using a hula hoop.

18. Ring Toss

Ring toss is a classic carnival game that children can play at home with a few simple supplies. Set up the target can in the middle of the room, and let your child take turns tossing the rings from a few feet away. 

As they get better at releasing the rings, move the target further away. Your 5 year old will love the challenge of getting all the rings on the target.

Skill Development: This game will help improve hand-eye coordination.

What you need: You only need a few small objects for rings and something to use as a “target”—like an empty soda can. 

19. Freeze Dance! 

Turn up the music and get moving! This is a great game to get kids up and active. When the music stops, everyone has to freeze in place. The last person to freeze is out of the game. To make it more challenging, ask kids to make different moves when the music is playing—like hopping on one foot or touching toes.

It would be best if you also tried different genres of music to keep the game interesting. Your child will love busting a move to their favorite songs!

Skill Development: This will enhance their improve their attention to detail as well as their body movement skills.

What you need: Speakers and some free space for the kids to dance.

Indoor Games For Kids to Stimulate Their Brain

Not everyone has access to an outdoor space, but that doesn’t mean your child can’t be active. There are plenty of games for 5 year olds that can be played indoors!

20. Tangram 

Tangram is a Chinese puzzle game that people of all ages can play. The game’s objective is to create different shapes using all seven pieces. 

You can help your child get started by showing them how to make basic shapes, like a square or triangle. They can try to make more complex shapes as they get better at the game.

Skill Development: This game is great for problem-solving and spatial awareness.

What you need: The Tangram puzzle set

21. Balloon Volleyball 

Set up a net in your living room or basement and play a game of indoor volleyball! To keep the game fair, you can have one person on each team hit the balloon three times before it goes over the net. The first team to reach 21 points wins the game!

Skill Development: This is a great way to get kids moving and improve their hand-eye coordination.

What you need: A balloon instead of a volleyball and if you don’t have a net you can use a rope or a laundry basket.

22. Cup Stacking

Cup stacking is an easy game and all you need is a set of plastic cups and some patience!

To play, have your child stack the cups into towers of different heights. As they get better at the game, they can try to stack the cups faster or in more complex patterns. 

Skill Development: Cup Stacking is a great way to improve your child’s hand-eye coordination and improve motor skills.

Tip: You can also turn cup stacking into a race by timing how fast your child can stack and unstack the cups.

What you need: Just a bunch of cups!

23. Dots and Boxes 

Dots and Boxes is a simple game that kids can play with a pencil and paper. The goal of the game is to create as many squares as possible by connecting the dots. 

However, one player can only make one line per move. To make the game more challenging, you can increase the grid size or have your child play with more than one person.

Skill Development: This game is great for honing problem-solving and planning skills.

What you need: A pencil or pen and a sheet of paper.

24. Frozen Words

Simply write down a bunch of words on slips of paper, and put them in a container. Then have your child draw a slip of paper out of the container and try to guess the word from the definition you give. If they guess correctly, they get to keep the word. The person with the most words at the end of the game wins!

Skill Development: This is an excellent game for teaching kids vocabulary. 

What you need: Some small chits of paper to write the words and a big sheet of paper or board for the kids to draw on.

25. Who’s the Baby? 

This game is a great way to introduce fundamental concepts like family and relationships. Players take turns asking questions about the baby in the picture, and the player who correctly guesses the baby’s identity wins the game.

Objectives:

• To learn about family and relationships
• To practice identifying people in pictures

Skill Development: This game will help your child practice their memory and observation skills.

What you need: Lots of photos of family and friends.

Let’s Make Learning Fun!

Learning should be enjoyable for both you and your child. By incorporating games into your child’s learning, you can help them retain information while having fun! Try out some of these games the next time you’re looking for a learning activity. Your child is sure to love them! So get out there and make learning fun for your kids!

What are some benefits of playing games for 5 year olds?

Playing games has many benefits, including improved problem-solving skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. Games can also help to introduce new concepts and vocabulary words. Educational games for 5 year olds can also prepare them for the skills they’ll learn in school.

What should I do if my child isn’t interested in educational games?

Don’t worry! Not every child is interested in games, and that’s okay. There are plenty of other ways to help your child learn. Try reading books together, doing puzzles, or even just talking about the things that interest them. As long as you’re spending time together and engaging with your child, they’ll be learning!

How can I tell if my child is ready for some of these games?

The best way to know if your child is ready for a particular game is to try it out and see how they do. If they seem to be struggling, that’s okay! Just try an easier game or one that’s more tailored to their interests. With time and practice, they’ll be playing more complex games in no time!

Do I need to buy anything special to play these games?

No, you don’t need to buy anything special. There are various free games for 5 year olds to enhance their learning. Many of the games on this list can be played with items that you already have around the house!

Are there any games for kids that can be played quickly?

There is no need to worry if you don’t have much time to spend on these games. Just a few minutes here and there can make a big difference. If you’re short on time, try incorporating learning into everyday activities like cooking or cleaning. Add games to your weekly or monthly schedule since every little bit helps!

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Some of the Best Online Learning Games for Kids

By Courtney Schley

To find our favorite learning apps and games for kids, we spent more than 40 hours researching and testing 50-plus apps recommended by educators, experts, and parents. If your family has a tablet and you want it to be more than a game-playing and video-watching device, or if you’re trying to find apps for your smartphone that will do more than keep your kids occupied in a pinch, we have some great suggestions.

As with our guides to STEM and learning toys, we didn’t test scores of apps to try to find the “best” ones. Rather, most of the apps here have been chosen by teachers for their students in classrooms, used by Wirecutter parents and their kids, or recommended by the experts and educators we spoke with. (For details, read more about how we selected the apps in this guide.) The apps we cover in this guide are great learning apps not because they’re designed to make kids smarter, to drill facts, or to replace in-school learning, but because they each offer something fun, unique, and interesting for kids and adults.

The research

Our favorite math apps, our favorite coding apps, our favorite science and exploration apps, our favorite social and emotional learning apps, our favorite ebook app, how we picked and tested.

These math games don’t simply drill facts or make kids memorize but rather use visuals, narratives, and storylines to help kids discover math concepts and build their skills. We like these apps because they offer games and exercises tailored to different ages and skill levels and because they encourage adults and kids to play together.

A family math app: Bedtime Math

Bedtime Math (iOS and Android)

Bringing math home.

This free app makes math a part of daily family life, like a bedtime story. A peer-reviewed study showed that it not only helps improve kids’ math performance but also makes parents feel more comfortable with math.

Buying Options

How it works: Bedtime Math ( iOS and Android ) seeks to do for math what the bedtime story does for literacy, by turning math into an enjoyable bonding routine between child and caregiver.

The free app offers a daily word problem for children to solve together with an adult during bedtime or anytime. Each exercise centers on a short narrative or interesting fact and poses questions at four difficulty levels, from pre-K through elementary school.

Why it’s great: Bedtime Math is one of the few children’s educational apps that have been evaluated in a peer-reviewed study . This particular study demonstrated that students who used the app significantly boosted their math scores; it also showed that Bedtime Math can help parents mitigate their own math anxiety , a phenomenon that can negatively affect their children’s attitudes toward math and their ability in the subject. Teacher Jennifer Auten told us she liked that the questions were written at a middle-school reading level, meaning an adult must facilitate the discussion but you have a choice of four levels of difficulty based on the child’s age and math level.

Apps for visual math: DragonBox Numbers and DragonBox Big Numbers

DragonBox Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual numeracy.

Cute Nooms help kids visualize and conceptualize numbers and arithmetic operations.

DragonBox Big Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

More-complex arithmetic.

Kids follow characters called Nooms on adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in the process.

Ages: 4 to 8 and 6 to 9

How it works: DragonBox Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), aimed at kids 4 through 8, introduces number sense, addition, and subtraction through cute characters called Nooms. (The characters are designed to resemble Cuisenaire rods , math learning aids that introduce kids to arithmetic operations in a hands-on way.) Kids feed, slice, and sort the Nooms, developing familiarity with addition, subtraction, fractions, and ranges. In DragonBox Big Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), for kids 5 through 9, players follow the Nooms on more complex adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in order to gather and trade resources.

Why it’s great: The Nooms function as digital versions of what classroom teachers call math manipulatives , physical learning aids that help young children understand theoretical math concepts in a concrete way. For older kids, the DragonBox series continues on with algebra and Euclidean geometry.

Many great apps teach coding to kids as young as preschool and progressing through upper elementary grades. We’ve highlighted four of these apps because they’re particularly easy to get started with and don’t require reading or, for the child or the parent, a coding background. Regardless of what app they use, parents should think of coding apps as a family activity, said Pat Yongpradit of Code.org . “You will rarely have such a rich media experience as you can when coding with your kid,” he said.

Coding puzzles for beginners: Lightbot and Lightbot Jr

Lightbot (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles.

The app’s simple puzzle challenges are easy to jump into for kids and adults with no previous coding experience.

Lightbot Jr (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles for younger kids.

A slower-paced, easier set of puzzles for kids as young as preschool.

Ages: 9 and up (Lightbot); 4 to 8 (Lightbot Jr)

How it works: In Lightbot ( iOS and Android ), kids solve a series of simple puzzles by lining up commands that make a robot advance over obstacles and light up squares. As they master basic concepts, they add more-complex commands, such as conditionals, loops, and nested statements. Lightbot Jr ( iOS and Android ) follows a similar structure but at a slower pace and with simpler challenges that focus on reinforcing the basics. A minimal amount of reading is required, so pre-readers may need adult help at the beginning.

Why it’s great: Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nonprofit educational organization that promotes and develops STEM curricula and resources, told us, “The best apps for young students without previous experience are those that teach and help build logic and reasoning skills [and] critical thinking skills, and provide brain teasers.” PLTW’s curriculum writers like the Lightbot and Lightbot Jr apps as ways to get kids as young as 4 started with the basic concepts and logical structures of coding.

A creative coding app: ScratchJr

ScratchJr (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual programming.

Using graphical coding blocks, ScratchJr lets kids animate characters and create storylines.

Ages: 5 and up

How it works: In ScratchJr ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids select characters and backdrop scenes and drag graphical programming blocks, which snap together like puzzle pieces, to make animation sequences and storylines. Although the app has some written cues, the programming blocks largely use symbols (such as arrows and stop signs) to indicate what they do (such as move the character forward or make them stop). As kids become familiar with how to structure the code, they can create multi-scene stories.

Why it’s great: ScratchJr isn’t lesson-based (though you can consult a variety of curricula and tutorials for the app) but rather designed to give kids a sandbox in which to experiment, learn, and create through trial and error (the app offers sample animations as well). Pat Yongpradit of Code.org , which recommends ScratchJr among other coding apps and games, noted one particular benefit: “It’s very free-form; you’re not basically being directed down a particular path.” Younger kids will need an adult or older child to guide them as they get familiar with ScratchJr .

An app for hands-on coding: Osmo Coding Awbie

Osmo Coding (iOS)

Tangible coding.

The Osmo system uses physical game pieces in conjunction with the device’s screen, making scripting and coding tangible and accessible for pre-readers.

Ages: 5 to 12

How it works: Osmo Coding Awbie requires a base system—a stand and a mirror that attach to the device’s camera and that are compatible with other Osmo games —for the iPad , iPhone , and Amazon Fire . The system allows players to use physical pieces to interact with the screen-based game. Kids use bricks marked with commands, arrows, numbers, and loops to create scripts that direct a silly character through mazes and challenges, picking up prizes such as strawberries.

Why it’s great: Teacher Jennifer Auten, who uses Osmo Coding Awbie and other Osmo games in her classroom, said the fact that it combined an app with physical pieces made kids more patient and thoughtful as they worked through the challenges: “When something is purely on the screen, kids will sometimes end up just tapping as fast as they can, randomly guessing. With the manipulatives, it slows their thinking down.” Auten also noted that the physical pieces made it easier to play the game with multiple people, fostering discussion, collaboration, and group problem-solving. She also likes that Osmo Coding Awbie is open-ended: “Kids can explore and create their own paths.”

In this category we chose these three apps—focused on anatomy, the natural world, and space—because they offer kids unique, open-ended ways to explore science topics. Each app encourages kids to meander, linger, and dive deeper at their own pace.

An app to see what’s inside: The Human Body

The Human Body (iOS and Android)

Seeing what’s inside.

The Human Body offers a visually and aurally interesting way to wander through the body’s organs, systems, and functions.

How it works: In The Human Body ( iOS and Android ), kids explore anatomy by jumping around to different organs and systems—for example, watching a mouth chew food and swallow drink, sliding into a stomach breaking down food, and following flashing nerve signals as they race up to the brain.

Why it’s great: The Human Body focuses less on teaching kids specific anatomical lessons and more on sparking wonder and fascination toward the body and what it can do. The app’s engaging visuals are neither cartoonish nor graphic, and the thoughtful sound effects are as compelling and instructive as the animations: Gurgles, wooshes, creaks, and spurts give kids a visceral sense of what’s happening inside them. You can toggle on or off the text labels that identify the systems and organs, but no reading is required to get deep into the app, making it equally accessible to pre-readers.

An app for discovering nature: Toca Nature

Toca Nature (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Natural-world building.

Toca Nature is an open-ended building app—similar to Minecraft—where kids can explore and shape the terrain, collect resources, and observe wildlife.

Ages: 4 and up

How it works: In Toca Nature ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids start with a simple plot of land where they can raise or lower mountains, create lakes, clear or plant forests, and make deserts. They can zoom in to different areas of their terrain to collect and distribute resources (like mushrooms, fish, or berries). As they change and shape the environment, different kinds of animals, plants, and fish will appear, multiply, migrate, or disappear.

Why it’s great: Similar to popular narrative-less building games like Minecraft , Toca Nature harnesses the enjoyment kids get from open-ended creating, wandering, and exploring games, with a unique focus on the natural world. Common Sense Media senior editor Christine Elgersma said that an app like Toca Nature doesn’t have explicit learning goals—it’s not trying to teach kids the names of animals or types of terrain, for example—but rather is “an exploratory app with experiences that a kid really couldn’t have off screen.” By creating and manipulating the environment, and then observing how the plant and wildlife change as a result, kids can see how animals, resources, and the environment interact.

An app for exploring space: Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System

Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Cats in space.

Explore the solar system with a jet-propelled cat.

Ages: 8 to 12, or 6 and up with an adult

How it works: Kids explore the app much as they would read a book, delving into facts, illustrations, and animations about planets, moons, stars, and space exploration. At various points, quizzes and other challenges let you earn sardine treats for Professor Astro Cat.

Why it’s great: Jana Grcevich , an astronomer, science educator, and author , told us she enjoyed the Professor Astro Cat app ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), along with the popular book series it’s based on, with her then 6-year-old niece. The app requires reading, but the entertaining storyline and fascinating facts make it fun for adults along with younger children.

Social and emotional learning , which includes self-awareness, empathy, communication skills, and building relationships, among other capacities, has increasingly been recognized as a critical component of children’s education. These three apps let young kids explore different aspects of self-expression, emotions, and social play.

An app for self-expression: Me: A Kid’s Diary

Me: A Kid's Diary (iOS)

A digital diary.

This app lets kids explore self-expression through drawing, writing, photos, and audio and video.

Ages: 7 and up

How it works: Kids create a digital diary of their lives by answering questions about themselves; making avatars for family members, friends, and other loved ones; and designing their own media. Kids navigate all these entries on their Me Map, a sort of multimedia landscape of their lives.

Why it’s great: Me: A Kid’s Diary helps kids creatively document their feelings, experiences, and loved ones through different media and modes of expression. In some ways, the app offers an experience akin to social media—uploading photos, making videos, writing reflections, and mapping personal connections—but in an entirely closed environment (there’s no actual communication or sharing within the app). This can create a space for kids to start to explore (and for parents to discuss) digital self-expression and sharing.

An app for emotions: Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Feelings

Daniel Tiger's Grr-ific Feelings (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Exploring emotions.

The beloved PBS character helps young kids identify, act out, and explore their feelings through games, songs and creative activities.

Ages: 2 to 5

How it works: Kids explore the familiar world of the PBS Kids series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood ( iOS , Android , Amazon ) through simple games, songs, and art activities that focus on identifying and exploring feelings and emotions. It offers different ways for kids to practice, talk about, and experience emotions, such as by drawing a picture, taking a photo of themselves feeling angry or happy, or practicing a calming exercise with Daniel Tiger.

Why it’s great: The app is simple and accessible for very young kids, with frequent verbal cues and reminders to help them through the easily navigable interface. “Even without the Daniel tie-in, it could actually still be a pretty successful app for teaching a lot of social, emotional, and self-care skills,” said Harry Sawyers, Wirecutter senior editor and father of three. “But having the familiar characters and songs really helps jump-start their interest if, for example, they ‘have to go potty—stop, and go right awaaaaay!’”

An app for social play: Toca Tea Party

Toca Tea Party (iOS)

Tea for two (or more).

Toca Tea Party presents the elements of a tea party—drinks, desserts, and dishes—for unstructured imaginative play.

Ages: 2 and up

How it works: Toca Tea Party couldn’t be simpler: You set a tea table with plates, cups, drinks, and treats for three guests, and the rest is up to your imagination. There’s no objective beyond pouring drinks, munching treats, and wiping up spills, and the app has a built-in end point: Once you’ve finished the snacks and beverages, the table clears itself and the dishes drop into a sink, ending the party.

Why it’s great: Toca Tea Party isn’t so much a game as a scene for unstructured imaginative and social play for young children. Kids can play alone (perhaps by inviting dolls or stuffed animals as guests) or with one or two others—a unique feature for a tablet game to pull off well. My two daughters, now 4 and 5, haven’t tired of Toca Tea Party after two years, and their play centers on chatting, pretending, and sharing.

An app for reading: Epic! ebook subscription

Epic! e-book subscription

Endless ebooks.

This app allows young readers to choose from up to 35,000 different books for a low monthly cost.

How it works: For $8 a month, kids gain access to some 35,000 children’s books in an intuitively designed app. Epic’s library is updated regularly with new titles, including classics and the site’s original content. Many of the picture books have a “Read to me” function, where a narrator reads the text aloud and the pages turn automatically. The app also suggests books by age and based on what a child has previously read, allowing kids to easily discover new titles at their reading level. Epic! works on iOS, Android and Microsoft tablets and smartphones.

Why it’s great: While some subscription kids’ e-book apps tend to be populated with the kinds of uninteresting titles you’d find in a bookstore bargain bin, Epic! offers an impressive library of children’s books, including many of the beloved classics and award-winning authors you’d find in a well-curated children’s library. (The Wizard of Oz, with the original 1900 illustrations, was one memorable find that gave us many nights of rapt bedtime reading.) The app is simple enough to use that both of my daughters can independently browse books by the cover art and find what interests them—even though they are both pre-readers. Fairy tales abound, but I’ve also found them paging through books about geology, Ramadan, and coding.

Since we began researching learning apps in 2016, we’ve spoken with a range of experts, including a classroom teacher, a child developmental psychologist, a pediatrician, an astronomer, education researchers, app developers, and others.

These have included Kathy Hirsh-Pasek , a professor of psychology at Temple University who has written about and conducted research studies on educational apps for young children; Jennifer Auten , an award-winning teacher in Cupertino, California, who has been using tablet and smartphone apps in her first- and second-grade curricula since the iPad was released in 2010; Christine Elgersma , senior editor, parent education, for Common Sense Media, an organization focused on children’s media; and Pat Yongpradit , chief academic officer at Code.org, a nonprofit that advocates for computer science education. Last, we’ve spoken with parents on our staff for recommendations of apps they and their kids love in categories such as science, music, and coding.

We read articles and reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and child developmental psychologists and educational researchers to learn about kids’ media use and about principles for designing learning apps. Finally, we read through reviews and ratings from well-regarded children’s media sites such as Common Sense Media .

Similar to what we found when researching learning toys , we discovered that developers and app stores often label apps as “educational” with little research or evidence, and few experts, to support those claims. In 2016, the AAP released a broad report on children’s use of digital media, calling for more-rigorous evaluation of apps that claim to be educational: “Unfortunately, very few of the commercially available apps found in the educational section of app stores have evidence-based design input with demonstrated learning effectiveness.” Similarly, in a 2015 article , Hirsh-Pasek writes that educational apps “present a significant opportunity for out-of-school, informal learning when designed in educationally appropriate ways” but notes later on that “[o]nly a handful of apps are designed with an eye toward how children actually learn.”

Experts are still studying what makes learning apps successful pedagogical tools, as well as fun and interesting activities for kids. But after speaking with experts, reading research, and trying out apps ourselves, we identified a few features that seem to be common among great learning apps.

• Offer unique experiences: Several of the experts we spoke to noted that a good educational app should offer children something they couldn’t simply do, learn, or explore in a classroom or the real world. If the app is “basically a worksheet on screen, [or] an experience that could be replicated off screen, then that’s not a good use of the screen,” Elgersma said. “You want it to be an experience that kids could really only have in that screen world.”
• Be open-ended, with limits: Most of the apps in this guide are open-ended in the sense that they encourage kids to independently explore, create, and navigate within the app. But researchers say it’s important to have built-in limits, as well. The AAP has pointed out that digital games have traditionally been designed with rewards and reinforcement designed to keep kids playing as long as possible. The organization recommends that learning apps instead have “automatic ‘stops’ as the default design to encourage children and caregivers to pause the game use and turn to the 3-dimensional world.”
• Be engaging but not distracting: Apps have great potential to engage children through interactive features, but some research has shown that too many bells and whistles can distract children or reduce their comprehension. A good learning app uses interactive, animated, and responsive features to engage kids or enhance their comprehension, not simply to entertain. Hirsh-Pasek has written that parents should evaluate an app’s interactive features and ask: “Do the enhancements actually add value and increase engagement, or do they cause distraction?”
• Encourage interaction: The AAP and other organizations say that learning apps that encourage real-life interaction among multiple people—adult and child, or child and peers—can be especially strong at facilitating learning. The apps in this guide are fun and interesting for kids and adults, and many foster conversation and play outside of the app itself.

As with our guide to learning toys , we focused primarily on apps aimed at kids 3 to 9 years old, though older kids can enjoy many of our recommendations, as well. We chose this age range because, as Hirsh-Pasek has written , “there are so many apps targeted toward [children in this range] that parents and educators do not know how to navigate the marketplace of possibilities.”

All the apps we recommend in this guide adhere to the FTC’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act . Among other things, COPPA requires that websites and apps directed at children under age 13 obtain permission from parents before collecting or sharing personal information from children, or targeting them with behavioral advertising. None of the apps in this guide require children to enter personal information in order to use the app’s functions, and none offer social media sharing or connectivity.

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, et al., Putting Education in “Educational” Apps: Lessons From the Science of Learning , Psychological Science in the Public Interest , April 20, 2015

Yolanda (Linda) Reid Chassiakos, et al., Children and Adolescents and Digital Media , Pediatrics , October 1, 2016

Jana Grcevich, PhD, astronomer, science educator, author , phone interview , December 1, 2016

Jennifer Auten, first- and second-grade teacher, Cupertino, California , phone interview , November 8, 2016

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD, professor of psychology, Temple University , phone interview , January 8, 2019

Christine Elgersma, senior editor, parent education, Common Sense Media , phone interview , March 12, 2019

Pat Yongpradit, chief academic officer, Code.org , phone interview , April 18, 2019

Meet your guide

Courtney Schley

Courtney Schley, a senior editor covering sleep and appliances, has been at Wirecutter since 2014. She has held several roles at Wirecutter, including research editor, as well as supervising editor of baby and kid coverage.

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Prodigy Math

Prodigy english.

• Is a Premium Membership Worth It?
• Promote a Growth Mindset
• Help Your Child Who's Struggling with Math
• Parent's Guide to Prodigy
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• Math Curriculum Coverage
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• Game Portal

27 Best Educational Games for Kids to Play Sorted by Subject

Written by Jordan Nisbet

Educators & Parents

Help kids discover their passion for math with our engaging, online math game!

• Parent Resources
• Mathematics
• Language arts
• Health and physical education
• Social studies

Educational games make a great alternative for children who don't learn best through pencil and paper instruction.

According to educational nonprofit EDUCAUSE , a growing body of research shows game-based learning platforms “can create an engaging dynamic that inspires students to develop competencies and skills as they focus on the activities of the game.”

Regardless of the subject, educational games for kids can help you instill a love of learning in your own child. This applies whether they're learning through homeschooling, online learning or traditional classroom setting.

Below, we’ve organized some of the best educational games for kids by subject! Interested in games for a certain subject? Click one below and jump right to it:

Mathematics games

Available : Apple App Store , Google Play , Amazon Appstore , Web

Age : 6 to 14

Cost : All in-game educational content is free, Memberships  available

Prodigy Math is the engaging, fantasy-based math game used by over 100 million students, teachers and parents around the world. 

It’s curriculum-aligned and helps kids master math skills in every major topic from 1st grade to 8th grade, including fractions, geometry and more.

After creating their own personalized math wizard, your child will compete in math battles against in-game characters , just like how role-playing games like Pokémon work. To win, they must answer sets of math questions.

The game also adapts in difficulty to suit your child’s learning style and grade level, helping them build key math skills. In one school district, research showed that students who used Prodigy Math mastered 68% more math skills on average when they used Prodigy Math!

Create your free parent account  to follow your child's progress as they have fun learning math. You can also get a Membership to level up your Prodigy experience — packed with plenty of extra benefits for you and your child!

Are you an educator? 👩‍🏫

Get full access to Prodigy's teaching tools at no cost to you or your school!

Available : Web

Age : 8 to 14

Cost : $20 per month, $40 per quarter, $60 per year

This is a middle school math game aligned with the common core and TEKS curricula. Your child will be tasked with helping Alfred, an inventor, save Mathlantis —  a chaotic and disordered world — by restoring the population’s math knowledge.

On this adventure, they’ll time-travel and meet famous mathematicians, help them regain their lost knowledge, and transform Mathlantis back to its original state.

Twelve a Dozen

Available : Apple App Store

Cost : Free, in-app purchases

Developed by Touch Press Games, this educational math game helps children understand the beginning thought process of algebra and explore longer, more complex algebraic equations.

In Twelve a Dozen, your child will join the numeric hero, Twelve, on a journey through a universe of numbers. She’s on a mission to rescue her family and the crumbling world of Dozenopolis from the destructive Ultimate Prime. And they’ll use their skills and understanding of core math concepts to solve puzzles.

Looking for more amazing math games for kids? Check our list of the  13 best math apps for kids in elementary school!

Start with Art!

Available : Apple App Store, Google Play, Amazon Appstore

Embark on a journey into the world of art, creativity, and visual learning with your personal Art Guides: Tickles, Furnace, and Ruby!

Start with Art! will walk your child through four foundational art lessons:

• Art as language
• Message in art

It also has engaging “Creativity Builders” art projects designed to foster creativity, encourage problem solving, and enhance critical thinking skills.

Each lesson is aligned to Creativity Express, a multi-award winning visual arts curriculum that professional educators and former Disney animators created!

Cost : Free

Tate is a family of four art galleries in London, Liverpool, and Cornwall. Its children-focused project, Tate Kids, lets children play free art-related games and quizzes, get help on art homework, and share their creations!

In addition to completing fun quizzes, kids can help robots save famous art in “Art Parts,” create their own landscapes in “My Imaginary City,” and more! 

No matter what area of art your child is into, they’ll find something engaging, educational, and creative!

Colorfy: Coloring Art Game

Available : Apple App Store, Google Play

No crayons? Run out of sketchbook pages? No worries! 

Colorfy is a digital coloring book for kids of all ages, filled with high-quality images. With over 1000 pictures to paint, your child will have the choice of florals, animals, patterns, gardens, mandalas, famous paintings, and other creative images.

This coloring game also includes a new AR virtual gallery that lets your child see what their art would look like in the real world!

Language arts games

Available: Web

Cost: Free to play, with optional Memberships for extra rewards

Prodigy English is a free educational game for kids that uses creative, sandbox gameplay to engage kids in English language skills. The game takes place on the player's very own village, where they'll collect resources and use them to build objects that can play in their own world.

Just like Prodigy Math, Prodigy English uses an adaptive algorithm that adjusts the questions students get based on their grade and ability. This can help them grow their reading and vocabulary skills – all while having fun!

Prodigy English covers Common Core reading and language skills from 1st grade to 6th grade, with more skills and game content coming!

Available : Apple App Store, Google Play, Amazon Appstore, Web

Age : 4 to 18

Cost : 30-day free trial, then $9.99 per month

As outlined on HOMER’s website, their “mission is to provide the best educational start possible by offering personalized, fun, and proven learning products for children.” 

This early learning program has two products: Reading and Stories .

HOMER Reading combines a child’s current reading level and their passions, in order to create a personalized learn-to-read plan. Using that child’s same interests, HOMER Stories curates stories they’ll love — from classic to contemporary.

Vocabulary Spelling City

Available : Apple App Store, Google Play, Web

Cost : Free, $34.95 per year (family annual membership up to five students)

This program is a K-12 supplemental literacy tool designed to help children at every learning level learn spelling and hone grammar skills.

Plus, it helps them build vocabulary retention and reading comprehension.

You can try out 40+ free online spelling games which come with pre-populated word lists. They also offer a premium membership that gives your child access to all of Vocabulary Spelling City’s games with customized lists, homework practice, and more.

Wallykazam! Letter and Word Magic

Available : Apple App Store, Amazon Appstore

Cost : $1.99

Based on the children’s animated television series on Nickelodeon, Wallykazam! helps preschoolers learn early reading skills.

Kids will join Wally Trollman, his pet dragon Norville, the mischievous Bobgoblin, Gina Giant, and Libby Light Sprite in magical and hilarious adventures! They’ll play games and learn letter recognition, letter tracing, and phonics.

Room Recess

Room Recess provides a wide variety of educational games for kids to play during recess. This includes ELA topics, like nouns, sight words and phonics. Each topic has a mini-game made for it, with easy gameplay designed to encourage engagement in the subject. The platform also includes games for skills like math and typing, from pre-k to 6th grade.

If you're a teacher, you may find Room Recess extra helpful for its worksheets, ideal if you're looking to reinforce some of the content seen in the platform's mini-games.

Health and physical education games

Age : 5 to 12

Cost : Free, premium version available

The purpose of GoNoodle is to help parents and teachers get kids moving, with the help of engaging video content. As their app description states: “make screen time active with 300+ videos that feature kids songs, dance, yoga, mindfulness, stretching, and more!”

Whether you want to throw your children a dance party to get them moving or make cleaning up around the house fun, GoNoodle has the perfect video.

Learning Games for Kids: Health

Age : 4 to 13

When it comes to health, it’s important that children learn about their bodies early to stay healthy. Although this website is outdated, there are 36 health-related games across four categories that will help children love to care about their health.From allergies and body parts to dental hygiene and staying fit, playing these games can introduce them to new concepts and help reinforce what they learn in school.

Disaster Master

Disaster Master is an educational game for kids designed to teach them about staying safe from environmental disasters. Players progress through different 8 levels, each centered on a particular disaster challenge, like hurricanes and wildfires.

Use this game to teach both younger and older kids about the importance of staying safe and what they can do to protect themselves in an environmental disaster.

Science games

Available : Apple App Store, Google Play, Microsoft

Cost : $2.99 per app, discounted bundles available

Tinybop can be summed up in three words: play, create, and learn. 

Using educational apps and digital games created for curious and creative minds, children can explore the awesome and invisible wonders of the world!

Children will develop foundational science literacy while engaging with educational games about the human body, plants, homes, weather, space, animals, states of matter, and other exciting topics.

Cost : Free with in-game purchases

Flowing from a belief that the power of play jumpstarts imagination, its games are open-ended, so children are encouraged to experiment and make new connections. The educational game developer Toca Boca creates digital toys from the kid perspective. 

Among Toca Boca’s products, science-related ones include Toca Lab: Elements and Toca Lab: Plants.

In Elements, children will explore the exciting world of science and meet all 118 elements from the periodic table, as they experiment with lab equipment!

And in Plants, they’ll have the opportunity to see how plants evolve, while collecting up to 35 different plant characters!

Camp Wonderopolis

Science for kids is a website packed with fun games for kids to channel their inner scientist. From learning about food chains to mastering melting points, each topic includes mini-games to help engage kids in biology, chemistry and physics.

The website also includes other educational activities for parents and teachers to try with kids, like experiment ideas, quizzes and more.

Technology games

Cost : Individual and Family Plans available, starting at $9 per month

Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Facebook, said: “In fifteen years, we’ll be teaching programming just like reading and writing… and wondering why we didn’t do it sooner.” 

Recognizing its importance, Tynker has created award-winning coding courses that are fun and offer self-paced learning for all experience levels.

With over 3,700 fun modules, Tynker designed its lessons to motivate children to further advance their skills, while earning cool new badges! They’ll also have help along the way thanks to interactive explanations, how-to videos, mini-game previews, and more.

CodeSpark Academy

Cost : $9.99 USD/month, with discounts available for longer subscriptions.

This coding game for kids covers many different skills needed for programming, including creativity, logical thinking and problem-solving. It includes characters called the Foos, who guide players through puzzle games where they'll encounter and learn coding topics like sequencing.

Like many of the educational games listed in this article, you can access it via web or through a device running iOS or Android.

Gamestar Mechanic

Available : Web (App access required)

In partnership with E-Line Media and the Institute of Play, Gamestar Mechanic is an online game and community with the sole aim of helping children learn the guiding principles of game design in a highly engaging environment.

There are three components to Gamestar Mechanic: Play, Design , and Share .

Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

• Your child will start by going on an exciting single-player quest to learn about the principles of game design, while earning “sprites.”
• After exhibiting a certain level of mastery, they can use their sprites to design their own original games!
• Then, if your child wishes, they may publish their game in Game Alley as well as review and collaborate on other players’ games.

Have you thought about a STEM program?

If your child loves technology games, they might benefit from a STEM program. STEM programs help kids build key STEM skills – all while they have fun!

Social studies games

Pbs kids games.

Available : Web, Apple App Store, Google Play

Age : 2 to 11

Starring some of children’s favorite television characters, the social studies games on PBS Kids explore culture, different environments, identity, governance, science, and more.

Not sure there’s something for your child? PBS Kids offers a variety of styles of games — from Jet’s Planet Pinball to learn about our solar system to Fidgits to the Rescue! where they build structures to help victims of environmental disasters. There’s something for every type of learner.

In 2009, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor founded iCivics to reimagine civic education. Since its inception, her vision has been “to cultivate a new generation of students for thoughtful and active citizenship. Civic knowledge is a prerequisite for civic participation. Yet for decades, civic education had largely disappeared from school curricula and the repercussions are undeniable.”

Taking a game-based approach, iCivics transforms abstract concepts into problems that every child will face in real life. 

If it’s used in your child’s class, they’ll have a class code to sign in. If it isn’t, they can still make their own account to play engaging and educational games that will help make them better citizens!

One Globe Kids - Friends

Available : Apple App Store, Web

This social studies game allows children to “meet” other kids around the world through photo- and audio-based stories called “A Day in My Life.” Choose from places like Haiti, New York City, the Netherlands, or Indonesia to hear each storyteller’s language as well as learn geographic, cultural, and political facts about each country.

Depending how your child would like to explore each friend’s story, they can choose from three different approaches: Adventure, Start to Finish , and Conversations .

History games

Civilisations ar.

Age : All ages (However, children under 16 are advised to have an adult present.)

With this engaging app, Civilisations AR puts puts history in your hand with the BBC’s first ever Augmented Reality app. You and your child will discover things like ancient Egyptian secrets and reveal hidden layers beneath Renaissance masterpieces.

Whether at home or on a walk in the park, you can use Civilisations AR to bring realistic, to-scale artifacts to life. Become the explorer as you move, scale, and rotate the collection. And, if interested, use features like the “Spotlight” to reveal audio guides and special features, or the “X-Ray” to discover some of history’s greatest secrets.

History for Kids: All Civilizations Learning Games

Cost : Free, in-app purchases ($2.79 to $13.99)

Children will have fun discovering the ancient world and exploring through games and adventures. With vibrant colors and high-quality images, they’ll find themselves engaged with the history of 14 different civilizations.

Kids also get to create their own avatar! And when they do, playing the game will allow them to level it up so they can unlock some awesome prizes.

Geography games

National geographic kids.

Parents may remember the National Geographic Kids magazine. Now, children can engage with the same fun aspects of the magazine online.

To learn more about geography, head over to their website for some fact-filled, fast-paced fun! There are many educational quizzes, funny fill-ins, and action-adventure games to play.

Carmen Sandiego

Where on Google Earth is Carmen Sandiego?

Your child will just have to hop on the internet to find out. In collaboration with education publishing company Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Google Earth created a series of Carmen Sandiego games: The Crown Jewels Caper, Tutankhamun's Mask Caper, and The Keys to the Kremlin Caper.

Your child will help Carmen Sandiego track down burglars working for a global criminal organization called VILE. Flying from continent to continent, players interview characters to gain clues that help track down the burglars while testing their geography knowledge. 

Ready to see the impact educational video games for kids can have?

Gamification in education need not be limited to the classroom. Encouraging your child to spend their screen time playing educational video games for kids not only strengthens their skills in various subjects but can also help transform them into lifelong learners!

10 Best Educational Video Games For Children

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The gaming industry's prominent rise over the last few decades still isn't showing signs of slowing down, and in 2020 the form of media was bigger than sports and movies combined . Moreover, the constant rise of free-to-play games has made gaming a go-to form of entertainment for children.

RELATED: Open-World Games That Are Suitable For Children

Although gaming's main purpose is usually to simply entertain, there have been numerous releases over the years that aim to educate in effective and engaging ways. The educational video games on this list all find a great balance between being fun to play while also educating in a way that will engross most children.

Updated on July 22nd, 2023, by Jack Pursey: Gamers being concerned about how much time they're spending on the form of entertainment is certainly not uncommon. Thankfully, this guilt can be largely alleviated with the plethora of fantastic educational video games that now exist, as they give players the best of both worlds: entertaining them while also ensuring that they're learning along the way. These types of games are especially valuable for parents, who are often concerned about how much time their child is gaming. This list has been updated to include more of the best educational video games for children.

1 Big Brain Academy

Big Brain Academy originally hit stores in Japan back in 2005 before releasing in the rest of the world the following year. The game is centered around the concept of measuring the player's brain mass.

Big Brain Academy gives players a set of questions to answer and problems to solve, such as color coordination, shape matching, image identification, and more, before scoring their performance. A sequel was released on the Nintendo Wii in 2007 titled Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree, which is also worth checking out for those who still own the console.

2 World Rescue

World Rescue , as the name suggests, centers around protecting the world from a wide range of serious issues. The issues are all true-to-life, making World Rescue a great option for teaching children about real-world problems in a way that isn't too heavy-handed or scary.

The game markets itself as being inspired by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals , a series of 17 goals from the intergovernmental organization that include Zero Hunger, Climate Action, and Gender Equality.

3 Animal Jam Classic

Animal Jam Classic (formerly Animal Jam ) was developed by WildWorks (formerly Smart Bomb Interactive), a Utah-based company that is also known for its work on the Bee Movie Game and the kart-racing game Pac-Man World Rally .

RELATED: Best Real Life Simulation Games, According To Metacritic

Animal Jam Classic is a massively multiplayer online game that was made in collaboration with the National Geographic Society. The game intends to teach children about Zoology, predominantly through puzzles and mini-games.

4 Endless Alphabet

Endless Alphabet is a mobile game for young children who are learning the alphabet and trying to build their vocabulary. The game features a range of simple words with colorful characters offering animated descriptions as to what they mean. It also has puzzles for children to learn letter shapes and plenty of audio to help with how letters and words sound.

Endless Alphabet was developed by Originator and was runner-up for the 2013 App of the Year award .

5 Cities: Skylines

Cities: Skylines is one of a handful of games on this list that isn't branded as an educational game, but like the Civilization series (more on that later), it can be a fantastic learning tool nonetheless.

Cities: Skylines gives players a vacant plot of land as a blank canvas that they are tasked with building a thriving city on. The game is excellent for teaching players about city infrastructure, as they'll have to take into consideration aspects like road planning, emergency service placement, pollution, employment, and budget.

Of all the games on this list, Prodigy does arguably the best job of encouraging kids to continue playing and learning. This is accomplished by the game's use of common gaming mechanics, such as leveling up.

Prodigy puts players in a fantasy world and tasks them with embarking on adventures that will require them to solve maths questions. Maths can often be one of the toughest subjects to make interesting for children, making Prodigy an excellent option for teaching the subject.

7 Wordscapes

Wordscapes is a great choice for when children want a bit of light entertainment. The game gives players a crossword puzzle to solve, though clues aren't given via questions or abstract hints like most crosswords.

RELATED: Best PSVR Games For Children

Instead, players are given a selection of letters that they must combine to find words that will fit in the spaces. Consequently, Wordscapes is a great way to teach words and spelling, while the in-game dictionary will help expand the player's vocabulary.

8 Democracy Series

The Democracy series is ideal for older children who are starting to show an interest in politics. The games don't take much time to get started, throwing players straight into the role of President or Prime Minister of their chosen country. The player will then be tasked with solving real-world problems, such as balancing budgets, keeping crime levels down, and making law changes.

Although the games touch on heavy and complex subjects, they are presented in an accessible and easy-to-understand manner, making it a great way to help older children gain an understanding of politics.

9 Civilization 6

Civilization 6 is another game on this list that is an entertainment product first and education second. This has its benefits, though, as it teaches players in a way that never feels like heavy-handed education, making it a great game to trick children into learning. However, for those who are interested in learning more, there is plenty of detailed text for players to read up on in the game's encyclopedia, known as the Civilopedia.

Civilization 6 takes players to the Ancient Era of 4000 BC and tasks them with building an entire civilization through the ages until 2050AD at the latest. During this time, players will build cities, research topics, build wonders , and more.

10 Discovery Tour by Assassin's Creed

The Assassin's Creed series has always been keen to educate players along their journeys, with a plethora of historical information often being available to read in the games. Furthermore, the meticulously designed worlds that players are placed in often let players see fascinating recreations of historical locations.

Ubisoft took things a step further with Assassin's Creed Origins , which featured a Discovery Tour mode for the first time. The Discovery Tour mode removed combat and missions from the game and instead let players journey across the ancient Egyptian world peacefully and embark on various tours which educate players on the time period. Following the success of the mode in Assassin's Creed Origins , both Assassin's Creed Odyssey and Assassin's Creed Valhalla also offered Discovery Tour modes. The modes are well worth considering for children interested in ancient Egypt, mythological Greece, or Vikings.

MORE: RPGs Whose Historical Accuracy Would Surprise You

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52 educational video games for kids (by category).

Rather than bemoan the rise of gaming, parents are smart to work with their kids’ interests and choose educational video games that the whole family can agree on. 

The best video games provide kids not only with enjoyment but also opportunities to practice their collaboration, strategic-planning, and problem-solving skills. 

We’ve broken our mega list down by category to help you find games suited to your child’s needs. In it you’ll find games that teach familiar subjects like science and math, along with highly valuable “soft skills” like collaboration and creativity.

Please make sure to read the ratings and reviews before deciding if a game is right for your child. 

Before we hop into the list, let's consider the main criteria for educational video games.

What makes a video game educational?

According to Jane McGonigal, author of Reality is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and How They Can Change the World , “the average young person…will spend 10,000 hours gaming by the age of twenty-one.” 

Video games can be a crucial tool to educate young people because they have an important thing going for them: kids are into them.

Why not meet them where they are and embrace the power of video games as learning tools? 

• Complexity : Because video games offer kids the opportunity to make high-stakes decisions without real-world consequences, they allow kids to practice strategic planning, decision analysis, and personal reflection. In that way, most complex and strategic games are educational.
• Subject matter : Some games are educational because of their subject matter. For example, if you want your child to have a fun and interactive way to learn about the human body, you might find an anatomy game like BodyQuest. Or if you want them to up their geography skills, you might opt for National Geographic Challenge.
• Collaboration : Anytime kids have the opportunity to collaborate with others, they’re going to learn something. They might learn how to best communicate with an individual, how to decide whose idea to test, how to take turns, etc. Games can be a great way to practice collaboration skills for the real world. 

Without further ado, here’s our mega list of educational video games for kids.

Problem Solving and Collaboration Games

These games will have your child solving problems, and sometimes collaborating with others. 

1. Little Big Planet Series

In Little Big Planet, kids play and solve puzzles as Sackboy, a humanoid made out of burlap. While the gameplay is fun and quirky, the customization and sharing aspects are where this game excels. Future game developers and designers can learn about physics and worldbuilding with limitless customization options, and they can share their creations with the over 10 million players worldwide. 

Where to find it : The Little Big Planet series is available only on Playstation.

2. Synthesis

Synthesis is a collaborative learning experience where kids work in teams to solve complex problems and tackle real-world simulations. Created by the founder of Ad Astra, a school for the kids of SpaceX employees, Synthesis offers an open-ended process that challenges kids to develop and test strategies to figure out the rules of the game as well as possible solutions. In addition, they get to reflect on how they worked individually and as part of the group, bolstering their confidence to speak up and practice their leadership skills.

Where to find it : Synthesis cohorts are available for kids ages six to 14. Check out Synthesis here.  

3. Minecraft

The best selling game of all time just happens to be one of the most educational video games for kids. We don’t think that’s a coincidence either. Minecraft is a sandbox game, one where players are given tools to create whatever they want, limited only by their own imagination. Minecraft encourages research, experimentation, and curiosity, as kids push the limits of what they can build.

Where to find it : Minecraft is available on all major gaming platforms.

4. Super Mario Maker Series

Perfect for future game designers, the Super Mario Maker series lets kids create and share their own versions of levels from past Mario games. While making their own levels, kids will learn about gameplay flow, or how to structure a stage so players are challenged, yet still able to enjoy it. Another bonus is how user friendly it is. IGN says it “might be the most accessible game design tool ever created.” There’s even a game design bootcamp for players that want to learn even more. 

Where to find it : The Super Mario Maker series is available on Nintendo.

5. Death Squared

Death squared is a puzzle game that will challenge your child’s observation and teamwork skills. Perhaps the greatest benefit of this game beyond its cognitive challenge is how it can bring families together. One reviewer states “it facilitates a social experience…people of all ages are able to play together.”

Where to find it : Death Squared is available on console and Steam.

6. Animal Crossing Series

Another highly popular game on our list, Animal Crossing is a great game for students who aren’t motivated by the more competitive aspects of some video games. There’s no end goal to this game. Instead, players wander around an open world, collecting items, performing tasks, and building up their community. It was tough to categorize this game because students can learn so much about reading, math, and STEAM concepts by playing it. We settled on problem solving because kids will need to figure out how to best spend their time in this immersive, educational world. 

Where to find it : The Animal Crossing Series can be found on Nintendo and Mobile platforms.

7. Rubicon by Synthesis)

Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon River, which is now in Northern Italy, in 49 B.C.E., thus knowingly starting a civil war. With Synthesis’s game Rubicon, players have to figure out the rules all on their own, but that bit of history might give you a hint. Just don’t mention it to your kids. 

Where to find it : Play Rubicon here.

8. Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain

Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain breaks down its puzzles and tasks into five uniquely challenging categories: memory, analysis, computation, identification, and visualization. Also, it is another game where parents can get in on the action. You can easily adjust each player’s difficulty settings to level the playing field and go head to head with your kids. 

Where to find it : Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain is available on the Nintendo Switch.

9. Thinksmart Family

Thinksmart Family is a trivia game the whole family can enjoy. It has over 8000 exercises to challenge kids' minds and help them develop language, memory, mathematics, spatial reasoning and logic skills, all while bonding (or competing) with their family.  

Where to find it : Thinksmart Family is available on the Nintendo Wii.

Science, Tech, Math, and Puzzle Games

These games are perfect for kids who love science and math, or who need a helping hand in these areas.

10. Kerbal Space Program

Trial and error is the order of the day in this rocket simulator game. In it you take charge of the space program for aliens known as the Kerbals, and your job is to help them explore space. You do this by continually building and testing rockets, kitting them out with a plethora of realistic components and parts, all while learning about real engineering concepts like fuel efficiency, thrust, and airflow. As one reviewer put it , getting his spacecraft into orbit was “one of [his] greatest achievements in a game.” 

Where to find it : Kerbal Space program is available for PC and console.

11. The Gran Turismo Series

Gran Turismo isn’t called the “The Real Driving Simulator” for nothing. Now in its seventh generation, Gran Turismo is a tech lover’s dream. Everything about the real life cars in this game is fully customizable, and budding mechanics and tinkerers will find immense joy and education in tweaking infinite details to boost their car’s performance and gain a competitive edge. 

Where to find it : The Gran Turismo series is available on Playstation.

12. Marvel's Spider-Man Series

If there’s any super hero kids should look up to, it’s Spider-Man. Peter Parker and Miles Morales are regular kids from New York City that happen to have an aptitude for science. While most of the gameplay revolves around web slinging through an incredibly accurate recreation of Manhattan, and fighting baddies, science based puzzles and concepts abound. While your kids may not gain super strength and agility by playing Spider-Man, they may develop a curiosity for science from great role models like Peter and Miles. 

Where to find it : Marvel’s Spider-Man and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales are available on Playstation.

Eloh is another game for students who like their challenges a little more relaxed. This beautifully designed and relaxing game focuses on sound and music based puzzles where players need to combine sounds in just the right way to achieve a goal. For any student who loves music, or wants to learn more about it, Eloh is a perfect opportunity to experiment with sound design and musical production. 

Where to find it : Eloh can be found in Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Foldit is unique among games on this list because it is a crowdsourced game that allows your child to contribute to scientific research in the field of chemistry. Players compete to find new ways to fold proteins into the most beneficial shapes, and researchers think this is an even more efficient way to study the process of protein folding than the current computer programs. Researchers also mention possible applications of this research in curing HIV/AIDS, Alzheimers, and more.

Where to find it : Play Foldit here.

15. The Portal Series

The Portal series was groundbreaking for its exciting gameplay mechanics and mind bending physics that can help kids understand concepts like momentum and gravity in a fun way. But what takes this series educational use up a notch is its downloadable “puzzle maker” where students can create new levels and machines within the game to test scientific concepts. There’s even a library of teacher created lesson plans that can be used with the “puzzle maker.”

Where to find it : The Portal series is available on all major gaming platforms .

16. Little Alchemy Series

These mobile games, while not strictly scientific, will get kids curious about how different combinations of various elements come together to create new things. You start each game with 4 basic components, and have to combine them in varied ways to unlock over 700 new items. 

Where to find it : Play Little Alchemy online , or download it with Google Play , or the Apple App Store .

17. ChemCaper

ChemCaper is a classic RPG that doesn’t sacrifice story and immersion as it helps teens pick up chemistry concepts. The game was developed for kids to learn without even realizing it, and developers claim that “ChemCaper players report that they remember 90% of the chemistry concepts learnt in the game 6 months after playing it for the first time.”

Where to find it : Download ChemCaper on Steam.

18. SimCity

This classic game still packs an educational punch. Students can learn about all sorts of concepts like urban planning, sociology, and environmental conservation, as they try to build and maintain a city. The newest version adds the challenge of implementing green technology to the mix. 

Where to find it : Download SimCity for PC and Mac here.

Spore is a game that can simply be a fun creation game where kids in grades four and up can make endless combinations of funky alien creatures using the game’s design tools. However, many teachers have used the game to teach concepts like evolutionary biology and sociology. 

Where to find it : Download Spore for PC and Mac here.

Alba is a great mix of head and heart. It’s a beautiful game that follows the titular character in her quest to document all the wildlife on the Mediterranean Island she’s visiting, before an evil developer destroys the natural ecosystem. Players can learn about ecology and activism, in this relaxing, easygoing affair. 

Where to find it : Alba is available on console and PC here.

21. Dragon Quest Builders 2

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is another RPG that doesn’t sacrifice playability and entertainment for its more educational aspects. The story is geared towards a younger audience, and it follows a builder as they fight back against an evil group bent on stopping them from building. If your kids love Minecraft, they’ll definitely love this game as well. Where it differs from Minecraft is that the building in this game is goal oriented, rather than open ended, which some kids may prefer. 

Where to find it : Dragon Quest Builders 2 is available for console and PC here.

22. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is a real look under the hood at game development and a must for any kid that’s ever thought I want to make video games. Kids will learn real programming and game design skills at a challenging yet manageable pace as the game leads them through a series of tasks. Once they’ve got the basics down, their only limit is their imagination. 

Where to find it : Game Builder Garage is available on the Nintendo Switch.

23. Math Blaster

Another update of one of the classic educational video games for kids, Math Blaster takes math learning to the next level. It is geared towards elementary to middle school students, and it teaches math concepts through a variety of minigames. Concepts in the game include basics like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as decimals, place value, money, angle types, and multiples of numbers. 

Where to find it : Play Math Blaster here.

24. Minecraft Mission to Mars

This Minecraft spin off gives students a little more purpose than the open-world sandbox version of the game. In Mission to Mars, students learn all about what it would take to build a colony on mars, while working collaboratively to do just that. 

Where to find it : Download Minecraft Mission to Mars here.

25. SpaceChem

This title is best for ambitious high school students who are already interested in science and chemistry. It has a steep learning curve and dives right into really complex chemistry concepts, but if students can get into it, they might just be training to be the next generation of chemical engineers while playing this rewarding puzzler. 

Where to find it :  Download SpaceChem on Steam.

26. BodyQuest

BodyQuest is a fun game that puts kids ages six and up on a tour of the human body. Players need to stop an invading army of aliens all while learning about anatomy. 

Where to find it : BodyQuest is Available for the Nintendo Switch.

27. Endless Ocean 

This diving simulator encourages learning about marine biology and ecosystems. Underwater environments have been painstakingly created and any student that loves the water and learning about sea life will fall in love. 

Where to find it : Available for the Nintendo Wii.

28. Down the Tubes

Down the Tubes is a game from the PBS KIDS Lab that teaches spatial reasoning and measurement skills. It’s super accessible and fun for kids ages five and up. Kids will feel accomplished when they help fix the Odd Squad’s tubes, and won’t even realize they’re learning. 

Where to find it : Play Down the Tubes here .

29. The Electric Company Party Game

Kids in grades K-2 need to help Marcus and Jessica get off Pranskter Planet in this fun game. While they’re doing so, they’ll be learning and using math skills. 

Where to find it : Play The Electric Company Party Game here.

Language Arts Games

Use these games to help your child become a better reader, writer, and critical thinker.

30. Baba Is You

Baba Is You is a puzzle game that involves manipulating language to achieve goals. Players can move tiles of nouns, verbs, and linking words to create “rules” that affect the gameplay. This game is great to help kids learn sentence structure and how reorganizing words can have a profound effect. 

Where to find it : Baba Is You is available on Nintendo Switch , Mobile , and PC .

31. Letters: A Written Adventure

Letters: A Written Adventure takes teens back in time to the 90s and 2000s as they follow Sarah, and read her hand drawn letters. This story encourages social and emotional growth through reading, and encourages practicing language skills through solving riddles. 

Where to find it : Letters: A Written Adventure is available on Nintendo Switch. and Steam .

32. My Word Coach

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to challenge your child’s linguistic ability, look no further than My Word Coach. This game was developed by linguists and has challenges that will help your child learn and practice using up to 17,000 words. 

Where to find it : My Word Coach is available on the Nintendo Wii.

33. Reader Rabbit 

As the name implies, this one is suitable for younger readers. It combines a fun, quirky story, with reading intensive challenges to help your little one grow their reading skills. 

Where to find it : Reader Rabbit is available for multiple game levels on the Nintendo Wii. 

34. Scribblenauts Mega Pack

Get more bang for your buck with this two-pack of Scribblenauts games: Scribblenauts Unlimited and Scribblenauts Unmasked (which takes superhero loving kids into the DC universe). Gameplay in both games revolves around generating different words to alter and change the world to achieve your goals. 

Where to find it : Scribblenauts Mega Pack is available on the Nintendo Switch.

35. Words With Friends

This Scrabble clone is suited to older teens with smart devices. Players can play against their friends, or against random opponents, to see who can come up with the most words. It’s not the best vocab building game as the context is lacking, but the ease of play and mobility make up for it. 

Where to find it : Download Words With Friends in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

36. Can You Dig It

This interactive web game by PBS KIDS Lab combines ELA and Ecology lessons in the form of a story with fun, interactive quizzes interspersed throughout. This game is great for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Where to find it : Play Can You Dig It here.

37. Influent

Influent is the only foreign language learning game on our list. In it you explore a realistic 3D environment with hundreds of items and their descriptions, allowing you to select what words you want to learn and keep track of them in the game. It already has 18 language packs and more are being added frequently. It even has fun mini games that make language learning more exciting. 

Where to find it : Download on Steam or in the Apple App Store.

38. JumpStart Escape From Adventure Island

JumpStart Escape From Adventure Island is a game for kids ages five through nine. It’s packed with all types of fun learning challenges and ways for kids to practice and hone their reading and critical thinking skills. In it you create an avatar called a Jumpee and explore a 3D island, customizing your treehouse and trying to rebuild your ship to get off the island. 

Where to find it : JumpStart Escape From Adventure Island is available on the Nintendo Wii.

39. Margot’s Word Brain

Margot’s Word Brain is great for kids ages ten and up. It includes six different word games that players can choose from to build their vocabularies. Each test is timed, forcing kids to test their mental agility against the clock.

Where to find it : You can find Margot’s Word Brain on the Nintendo Wii.

Social Studies Games

These games can help your child learn about history, culture, and geography.

40. The Oregon Trail: American Settler

The Oregon Trail: American Settler is the sequel to the classic game you probably played as a kid. Revamped with new graphics and challenges, kids nine and up can learn about life as a pioneer on the American frontier in this village building sim. Packed with historical facts and figures, this game is a fun, easy way to learn about U.S. history. 

Where to find it : The Oregon Trail: American Settler is available in the App Store or on Google Play.

41. 21 Days

21 Days is a simulation-adventure game that takes you through the life of a Syrian Refugee named Mohammed as he tries to earn enough money to bring his wife and son to live with him in Western Europe. Best for older teens as there is some sensitive content such as anti-Muslim discrimination and talk of war and violence, it is nonetheless a great opportunity to learn about the hardships refugees face. 

Where to find it : Download it on Steam here.

42. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI

Now in its sixth incarnation, Sid Meier’s Civilization is in a league all its own when it comes to strategy games. Players are tasked with growing their small band of people into, you guessed it, a large-scale civilization. The gameplay mechanics are engaging and challenging, but the greatest boon to learners is the enormous encyclopedia of real world knowledge they can pull from. It’s inevitable that after playing this game, kids ten and up will have a better understanding of humanity. 

Where to find it : Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is available on all platforms.

43. National Geographic Challenge 

National Geographic Challenge is another game with an encycopedia’s worth of content to help teach kids about world history, geography, culture, and more, all curated by the experts at Nat Geo. Players aged ten and up can learn by playing five different modes with over 60 minutes of unique content and over 4000 questions to test their knowledge. 

Where to find it : National Geographic challenge is available on Playstation 3 , Nintendo Wii , and Xbox 360 .

44. Where on Google Earth is Carmen San Diego?

Another blast from the past on our list, the world’s most notorious thief is back, this time using her skills for good. She’s still as elusive as ever though and it’s up to your kids to track her down using Google Earth. Using clues and geography facts from around the globe, players can track down Carmen San Diego while learning a ton about their world. 

Where to find it : Download Where on Google Earth is Carmen San Diego? here.

45. Democracy 4

Let’s be honest, learning about politics and government doesn’t get most kids revved up. So developers Positech games created Democracy, now in its fourth version, a sim that puts your teens right into a President/Prime Minister’s shoes to see first hand what governing and leadership really entails. They’ll have to make policy decisions, and try to stay in office, all while contending with a network of AI driven citizens designed to mimic real world opinions, beliefs, thoughts, and biases.

Where to find it : Download Democracy 4 here.

Health and Fitness Games

Health and fitness are an important part of a child’s education. They need to learn the benefits of exercise and get in the habit of moving regularly. These games can help. 

46. Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster

Your kids will be up, moving, dancing, and learning with their favorite Sesame Street friends Grover, Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Oscar in this game. Using the Xbox 360’s kinect controller, players can play with siblings, friends, and parents to progress through this storybook adventure learning life skills along the way. 

Where to find it : Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster is available on Xbox 360.

47. Zumba Fitness: World Party

Another game that uses the Xbox’s kinect sensor, Zumba Fitness: World Party is a great game for any kid who wants to get moving while learning a variety of dance styles from around the globe. Players can learn salsa, cumbia, Irish step, and more. There’s even a training mode where kids can practice those particularly tricky moves before going full throttle in the 45 dance classes. 

Where to find it : Zumba Fitness: World Party is Available on Xbox One.

Arms is a fighting game that utilizes the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Con for a tough upper body workout. While the fighting is more cartoonish than anything, the tactics can be pretty nuanced, so players ten and up have to get their mind-body connection in sync if they want to stand a fighting chance. 

Where to find it : Get Arms for the Nintendo Switch here.

49. Beat Saber

Beat Saber is a virtual reality game that allows kids to see and interact with music by slashing it down as it flies in at them. In it kids literally take aim at the building blocks of music, so it’s a great game to learn about rhythm, phrasing, and other music basics, while having a ton of fun, and working up a sweat. There’s also an ever growing catalog of music so kids are sure to love the upbeat soundtrack. 

Where to find it : Beat Saber is Available on Steam and Playstation , but be aware you’ll need a VR headset to play.

50. Ring Fit Adventure

Not many games mix story and fitness elements like Ring Fit Adventure. Kids ages ten and up have to save the land from the bodybuilding dragon Dragaux by utilizing a special ring add-on to the Swtich’s Joy-Con controller. They’ll be squeezing, jumping, squatting, and running their way to victory in no time. 

Where to find it : Ring Fit Adventure is Available for the Nintendo Switch.

51. Just Dance

If your child, ages ten and up, loves pop music and dancing, then Just Dance is for them. Filled with beautiful animation, Just Dance takes kids on a journey through today’s top hits, teaching them choreography and challenging them to keep up along the way. 

Where to find it : Just Dance 2022 is available on the Nintendo Switch.

52. Dance Central

Dance Central is another virtual reality game on our list. Its concept is similar to Just Dance 2022. Kids can learn custom choreography to over 30 tracks. What makes this game different is that not only are kids dancing along, but they’re interacting with NPCs in a virtual world, making for an all around immersive experience. 

Where to find it : Dance Central is available on Oculus Rift.

Educating your kids takes a village: you, their teachers, their after school program leaders, and video games. 

In Synthesis, kids collaborate together to solve problems. Learn more about Synthesis.

Stay in touch with Synthesis

How to Teach Your Kids a Growth Mindset & Boost Mental Resilience

32 After School Activities: Science, Problem-Solving and More

25 Summer Programs for Kids: Hobbies, Project-Based Learning, & More

The Moment I Learned To Advocate for the Strengths of My Twice Exceptional Son

How to Use the Power of Stories to Help Your Kids Develop a Growth Mindset

What to Do When Your Child Isn’t Challenged in School

7 Extracurricular Group Activities for Brainy Kids

Advancing human progress through education.

Does Synthesis Tutor Get Results?

Synthesis Tutor is built on research by DARPA —the government agency behind GPS, the Internet, and early self-driving cars.

DARPA sought to create a digital learning system as good as the classroom, but they accidentally made something far better. In fact, their average student performed better than 99.99% of students who learned in a classroom.

But the DARPA students didn’t only outperform the classroom, they also outperformed 99.9% of Navy technicians with an average of ten years of experience. This shows us that there is a way to teach concepts—even advanced concepts—in a way that’s far more efficient and empowering.

To achieve those results, the DARPA team created software that mimicked the way experts tutored their students. Unlike human tutors, software never gets tired, frustrated, or impatient. It never has an off-day or fumbles an explanation. If a student misunderstands a concept, the digital tutor always provides just the right guidance. This, it turns out, is critical.

Most importantly, the students felt like they were learning from a real person . The tutor was digital, but it had soul . Its care, intentionality, encouragement, and patients built unbreakable trust with students. They relied upon the digital tutor, shared their struggles, and treated it like you’d treat your favorite teacher. It’s hard to believe, but the digital tutor created a bond with the students—a bond that acted like fuel for unimaginably deep, fast, and joyful learning.

To test its effectiveness, DARPA set up a competition between three groups:

• Navy technicians with an average of 10 years of experience
• Students who learned in a classroom for 36 weeks
• Students who learned with the DARPA digital tutor for 16 weeks

The DARPA students outperformed both groups by huge margins. In only 16 weeks, they were better than 99.9% of Navy technicians and 99.99% of classroom students.

No other way of learning has ever achieved anything close to these results.

If you want to get close to the DARPA results, you’ll need to hire a world-class tutor to work with your child one-on-one. But even then, research shows those students won’t perform as well as the DARPA program.

Simply put, the DARPA program is the greatest way to learn in the history of humanity. It’s a big statement—we know. But it’s inexpensive to try it and to quickly discover this for yourself.

Synthesis partnered with the team that created the original DARPA program. We expanded upon their research, tailor-made a platform for kids ages 7-10, and extended what they achieved with modern AI tools.

For the first time, any kid with an internet connection can receive the best education in the world—no matter where they are.

If you’d like to dig deeper, you can read this study conducted by the Institute for Defense Analysis.

Or check out this helpful summary of the results.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

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11 Great Games to Educate and Entertain Your Kids at Home

If you're stuck inside and your kids are climbing the walls, but you aren't yet ready to let them watch Netflix from dawn to dusk, well, I don't blame you. Here are some games that are sometimes called "edutaining." Think of them as fun games that also teach something, but in a way your kids probably won't notice.

I do suggest setting some screen time limits before handing your children a device, but with these options you can at least rest assured that your kids are learning something.

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Ages 6-12 ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Animal Jam is an online virtual world originally created in collaboration with the National Geographic Society. It teaches kids about zoology and ecology with games, adventures, and parties and online social elements. With 160 million registered users, this is one of the largest virtual worlds for kids. If the online play gives you pause, know that the parental controls are pretty good, allowing you to lock down the game if you desire.

Ages 5 and up on Nintendo Switch ( GameStop , Amazon )

By Nena Farrell

By Julian Chokkattu

By Adrienne So

This is a great game that encourages spacial thinking and unique puzzle solving. Kids can pilot Toad through courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey game while hunting down treasures and solving puzzles.

This math-based role-playing game is free to play. Kids proceed through the game by answering skill-building math questions to earn rewards. There's an interactive element, too; they can go on quests with friends. The difficulty levels increase as your kids make progress in the game.

Ages 3-8 ( iOS , Android )

This physics puzzle game features rolling aliens that teach your kids about acceleration, buoyancy, gravity, and more. Like games of yesteryear, there are no ads, no in-app purchases, and it doesn't need an internet connection.

Ages 4 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Tinybop has dozens of learning-oriented apps and we've been fans for years . You can purchase them in bundles for iPhone or iPad (Android users there is one Tinybop bundle in the Play Store which has six games.) My kids love the Curiosity Kit ($16) , which includes apps about the human body, animal anatomy, and space. Tinybop is currently offering its Tinybop Schools subscription , which features ten science apps and classroom support, for free through the summer to help out parents and kids while schools are closed (no credit card required).

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS , Android )

Dragonbox games are primarily math-related, though they also partnered with chess champ Magnus Carlsen to create Magnus' Kingdom , a chess-learning game that's been very popular in my house. It uses an adventure-style approach to teach kids about different chess pieces and how to play. I strongly suggest picking up a real-world chess board (I like this no-stress chess board for beginners $18 ) as well. Your kids will ask for it. Trust me.

Ages 3 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

It's time you let delightful animated monsters teach your kids everything from basic ABCs to complex sentences. It has puzzle games with talking letters and well-illustrated definitions to help your child learn to read. Originator, the publisher of Endless Alphabet , has many other games as well , including Endless Reader , which helps kids learn sight words, and Endless Spanish which helped my kids significantly improve their Spanish vocabulary.

Ages 4-6 ( Computer )

This language, arts, and music learning site has dozens of games and activities to help your kids learn to read, add, subtract, and identify shapes.

Ages 4-8 ( iOS , Android )

PBS Kids has dozens of apps, many of them related to the shows on PBS Kids. If your kids like a particular show, they'll probably really engage with its related game, as well.

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS )

Stop-motion animation is a fun form of art that teaches patience. This animation app will help your kids start creating their own little animated masterpieces. The interface is reasonably simple, but it might require the help of an adult the first time through.

All ages ( Apple Podcasts for iOS , Google Podcasts for Android )

Check out our guide to kids' podcasts for some ideas on great podcasts that will keep your kids entertained. If you're a podcast fan yourself, you should try using Pocket Casts (great app). I suggest getting a separate podcast app for your kids, so there's no way they'll accidentally end up listening to any adult content you don't want them to hear.

March 25, 9 am: This story was updated to add links to the Tinybop Android app bundle.

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10 Educational Video Games Your Kids Will Love

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If I told you that kids really like playing video games, you'd probably roll your eyes and tell me I'm stating the obvious. But if I explained to you just how much kids like games -- that a study by the Pew Research Center found that a staggering 97 percent of kids ages 12 to 17 play video games -- would that get your attention?

Sure, kids spend a lot of time in front of computers , TVs and handheld devices, and as a parent you probably worry that they're just scrambling their brains with all that gameplay. But it turns out that time spent playing video games can actually be pretty educational -- those word games and problem solving tasks they have to complete to get to the next level can really teach valuable skills. It's all part of a growing field of activities known as "edutainment," or education while entertaining. And while kids are having fun they're picking up problem solving, critical thinking, math, language and even science skills. Many games also help kids be more creative and develop social and collaborative skills through interaction with other players. In other words, video games can be educational in addition to being fun.

In this list we'll take a look at 10 video games that will not only teach your kids a thing or two, they'll love playing them!

• Scribblenauts
• Civilization
• Magic School Bus
• Endless Ocean
• LeapFrog Leapster
• Professor Layton Series
• Dora the Explorer
• Big Brain Academy
• LittleBigPlanet
• Reader Rabbit

10: Scribblenauts

Help the game's hero, Maxwell, complete his quest and collect little yellow stars called Starites in this word-based adventure game. Kids can flex their creative muscles as they solve each level using the powers of logic, language and problem solving. They pick the tools needed to complete the puzzle, and there's virtually no limit to what they can use.

In Scribblenauts, each level is an open-ended puzzle. The task can be as simple as collecting a Starite from a tree, or as challenging as traversing crocodile-infested waters and slipping past werewolves. If a rope would be helpful, just write the word "rope" and it will appear for Maxwell to use. How about a lamp or a bicycle? You can use those too. But you're not limited to simple objects like ropes or lamps. The Scribblenauts dictionary contains over 22,000 words, so if you think a lawn gnome, a stegosaurus, a blob or even a Swede will help Maxwell accomplish his task, then you can write those too and they will appear. You can even combine objects to achieve your goal -- whatever you can imagine comes to life on screen.

The original Scribblenauts game won a Parents' Choice Silver Honors award in 2010 from the Parents' Choice Foundation, and its sequel, Super Scribblenauts, won a Gold Honors award in 2011. Scribblenauts and Super Scribblenauts are for kids ages 8 and up, and are available for the Nintendo DS. Scribblenauts Remix can be played on an iPhone or iPad.

Scribblenauts is a great example of emergent game play, which is a lot like "choose your own adventure" to the extreme. In other words, the game's complexity changes based on the player's decisions, leading to an infinite number of gaming experiences that are limited only by your imagination.

9: Civilization

Kids can engage in decision-making, planning, diplomacy, strategy and exploration with this in-depth civilization-building simulation game.

Accumulate resources in order to grow and develop your civilization, and if those resources aren't in your territory you'll have to negotiate and trade with other civilizations. Each thing you build -- granaries, factories, markets, banks, universities -- opens up new opportunities for development and advancement. Make important decisions about the focus of your civilization: Do you want to build up your military and be a nation of conquerors, or invest in scientific research and win the game through technological development? There are several ways to win the game -- military victory, scientific victory, economic victory or cultural victory -- and you decide the focus and results through the decisions you make and how you choose to allocate your resources. But don't forget to balance the needs of a growing society with your goal of winning the game!

Civilization is available for the PC or Xbox and is appropriate for kids ages 10 and up.

8: Magic School Bus

Who says school's not fun? Certainly not Ms. Frizzle's students.

Join the eccentric Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a trip on the Magic School Bus, engaging in a little bit of mischief and a whole lot of science learning. There's nowhere this bus can't take you -- explore the depths of the ocean, the surface of Mars, the diverse rainforest and even the complex human body in this entertaining and educational game series based on the popular television show and book series. Each game takes you on a learning field trip where you'll discover interesting facts, play science games and even conduct experiments to learn all about the place you're visiting.

The Magic School Bus games are available for your PC, and you can even play some games for free online through the Scholastic Web site. Take a quiz to test your science smarts, learn about how volcanoes work and even conduct your own science experiments online. Magic School Bus games are great for kids ages 6 to 10.

7: Endless Ocean

Explore the world's oceans and waterways, learning about aquatic habitats and sea life. Your kids can become divers on an adventure with the L&L Diving Service that allows them to interact with -- and learn about -- all kinds of marine plant and animal life. Traverse the seas with unique and interesting characters, including a salty expedition leader, a brilliant scientist and a young, headstrong diver who's sure to lead you into mischief. Hunt for sunken treasure in the Manaurai Sea; explore underwater caves, trenches and even shipwrecks; discover lost civilizations; identify and learn about 300 aquatic animal species and collect sea creatures for your own virtual aquarium.

Endless Ocean and its sequel Endless Ocean 2: Adventures of the Deep are available for the Nintendo Wii. The games are targeted for kids ages 10 and up, and feature a two-player game mode so you can explore the deep blue sea right along with your kids.

6: LeapFrog Leapster

What if kids could choose to play with their favorite animated characters, and they were guaranteed to be doing something educational, too? That's what the Leapster system is all about. The Leapster program isn't just a single game; it's an entire learning game system. It starts with the Leapster handheld game device, which is about the size of a Nintendo DS or a Sony PSP. With Leapster, kids can choose from a number of games featuring their favorite characters, like SpongeBob, Batman and Cinderella. All of the games are designed to be educational, helping kids ages 3 to 8 to develop math, reading and language skills. Math activities include learning about addition, subtraction and shapes. Reading games teach phonetic skills as well as sight words, vowels and consonants. The games even offer varying skills levels that adapt to your child's own learning pace.

Another interesting feature of the Leapster system is that you can connect it to a computer to download games, including starter games that teach shapes, numbers, colors, letters and memory skills. You can also monitor you kids' progress online through the LeapFrog Learning Path, which gives you progress updates on your child's learning development.

The Leapster system won a Parents' Choice Silver Honors award in 2008 as well as a Greatest Products Award from iParent Media.

Handheld video game devices allow you (or your child) to take your games anywhere you go, like car trips, restaurants and any place where you have to kill time. Some handheld devices available today include the Leapster, the Nintendo DS, 3DS and Game Boy Advance and the PlayStation Vita and PSP. And let's not forget those smart phones and tablets!

5: Professor Layton Series

Complete puzzles that teach problem solving, math, spatial orientation, logic and more to help Professor Layton and his apprentice Luke Triton solve exciting mysteries. Clicking on the characters you meet along the way reveals new puzzles and games, including logic problems, math challenges and even riddles. This game has a strong storyline that keeps you and your kids entertained and engaged while you collect clues and unravel the mystery along the way.

The Professor Layton games are available for the Nintendo DS and are aimed at kids ages 10 and older. The third installment of the series, Professor Layton and the Unwound Future, won a Parents' Choice Silver Honors award in 2011 from the Parents' Choice Foundation.

4: Dora the Explorer

Even if you're not a parent, there's a good chance you've at least heard of Dora the Explorer. With a popular TV show, toy line, book series, video games and even a traveling show, Dora and her group of goofy animal pals are everywhere, taking fun and learning wherever they go.

In the video games, just like the TV show, kids are invited to follow Dora and her friends on an adventure with an ultimate goal in mind. Follow maps, solve problems, learn new words and facts and have lots of silly fun along the way. Help Dora complete activities and adventures while learning about shapes, colors, numbers and words (both Spanish and English). But the game takes the show one step further by allowing kids to interact directly with the characters.

Simple, easy-to-follow instructions make this an easy game for kids ages 3 to 6 to pick up and play. The best part is that the Dora games aren't limited to a single gaming system. You can get Dora the Explorer games for the Nintendo Wii, DS and Gameboy Advance, the Sony PlayStation and even your PC.

Dora's Big Birthday Adventure and Dora Saves the Snow Princess both won Parents' Choice Approved Awards from the Parents' Choice Foundation.

3: Big Brain Academy

While lots of games can mask their educational content behind fun story lines and silly characters, Big Brain Academy turns learning itself into a fun challenge. Logic, math, analysis and memory skills are all developed with activities and games to train your brain every day. The more you play, the better you get; and the better you get the heavier your brain becomes!

Big Brain's games are grouped into five categories based on the skills you're building: think, memorize, analyze, compute and identify. You can practice, practice, practice, but the ultimate challenge comes when you take the test to determine your brain weight. Not satisfied with your score? Then keep practicing and try again! You can compete against your own best scores or even challenge friends and family to see who has the heaviest brain.

Big Brain Academy is available for the Nintendo DS and is suitable for ages 3 and up, but can be just as fun for grown-ups as it is for the young 'uns.

2: LittleBigPlanet

With LittleBigPlanet for Sony PlayStation 3, kids can build their own worlds and manipulate everything in them, developing logic, problem solving and spatial orientation skills in the process. It all starts with Sackboy, the game's playful main character who looks like a crocheted hacky sack with arms, legs and shiny black button eyes. You can customize him to look like whatever you want, adding goofy clothes or hairstyles to suit your taste.

Playing the game's levels teaches you how to build in, and manipulate, the LittleBigPlanet environment through a series of problem-solving activities and challenges. When you've completed the training activities, you can let your imagination run wild -- building and creating anything you want on your very own "patch" of virtual land. Then, when you've created the perfect location, you can share your creations with the LittleBigPlanet community online so others can explore and enjoy it too.

The PS3 version of LittleBigPlanet is designed for kids ages 7 and older.

LittleBigPlanet was part of the Educate to Innovate campaign introduced by the White House in 2009 to teach kids science, technology, engineering and math skills outside the classroom. The Digital Media and Learning Competition, funded by the MacArthur Foundation, challenged participants to create game levels to teach those skills.

1: Reader Rabbit

With Reader Rabbit and his friends your kids can develop language arts, science, problem solving and math skills by playing fun, engaging mini games suitable for a variety of skill levels. Learn counting and money skills with Silly Sandwich Shop; hone your addition skills with Raingear Forest Math; develop spelling skills with Cheese Brick Spelling; recognize shapes with Sparkle Shape Mining and much more in this educational game series.

Reader Rabbit games are available both for different age groups and for focusing on different skills. Toddler, Pre-School, Kindergarten, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade versions introduce a broad range of learning activities designed for your child's skill level. Other games like Reader Rabbit Learn to Read with Phonics, Reader Rabbit Math and Reader Rabbit Playtime for Baby and Toddler focus on specific skills. Three Reader Rabbit games won a Parents' Choice Approved award in 2011.

For more about games, kids and learning, take a peek at the links on the next page.

Lots More Information

Related articles.

• Understanding Video Game Ratings
• How to Bond With Kids Over Video Games
• How to Stimulate a Child's Mind
• Is the use of Internet in classrooms helping kids?
• 5 Great Tablet Computers for Kids
• Alexander, Scott. "Best Educational Video Games." Family Circle. (Feb. 14, 2012) http://www.familycircle.com/family-fun/video-games/smart-video-game-picks/
• Big Brain Academy. "How to Play." (Feb. 20, 2012) http://bigbrainacademy.com/ds/how/index.html
• Chang, Kenneth. "White House Pushes Science and Math Education" New York Times, Nov. 22, 2009. (Feb. 20, 2012) http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/23/science/23educ.html?_r=1&hpw
• Endless Ocean. "Story." (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.endlessocean.com/#/story/
• Entertainment Software Association. "Games: Improving Education." (Feb. 19, 2012) http://www.theesa.com/games-improving-what-matters/education.asp
• Heuscher, Sharon. "Reader Rabbit - 1st Grade." Parents' Choice, 2011. (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=29793&StepNum=1&award=aw
• Heuscher, Sharon. "Reader Rabbit - 2nd Grade." Parents' Choice, 2011. (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=29794&StepNum=1&award=aw
• Heuscher, Sharon. "Reader Rabbit - 1st Grade." Parents' Choice, 2011. (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=29791&StepNum=1&award=aw
• Jackson, Mike. "LittleBigPlanet 2 getting 'Teacher Pack' for school lessons." Computer and Video Games, March 15, 2011. (Feb. 23, 2012) http://www.computerandvideogames.com/293705/littlebigplanet-2-getting-teacher-pack-for-school-lessons/
• Kraft, Amy. "Scribblenauts." Parents' Choice, 2010. (Feb. 19, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=27602&award=xx&from=Search%20Results
• Kraft, Amy. "Super Scribblenauts." Parents' Choice, 2011. (Feb. 19, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=28939&award=xx&from=Search%20Results
• LeapFrog. "Leapster®2 Learning System." (Feb. 24, 2012). http://shop.leapfrog.com/leapfrog/jump/Leapster%AE2-Learning-System/productDetail/Leapster-Handhelds/lfprod21155/cat90006
• Lenhart, Amanda, Joseph Kahne, Ellen Middaugh, Alexandra Rankin Macgill, Chris Evans, and Jessica Vitak. "Teens, Video Games, and Civics: Teens' gaming experiences are diverse and include significant social interaction and civic engagement." Pew Internet and American Life Project, Sept. 16, 2008. (Feb. 24, 2011) http://www.cbsnews.com/htdocs/pdf/PIP_Teens_Games_and_Civics_Report_FINAL.pdf
• Oldenburg, Don. "Professor Layton and the Unwound Future." Parents' Choice, 2011. (Feb. 19, 2012) http://www.parents-choice.org/product.cfm?product_id=29003&award=xx&from=Search%20Results
• Olsen, Stefanie. "Educational Video Games Mix Cool With Purpose." New York Time, Nov. 1, 2009. (Feb.0, 2012) http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/02/technology/02games.html
• Scholastic. "Magic School Bus Games and Activities." (Feb. 20, 2012) http://www.scholastic.com/magicschoolbus/games/
• Techopedia. "Emergent Gameplay." (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.techopedia.com/definition/27043/emergent-gameplay
• Totilo, Stephen. "Obama and LittleBigPlanet Team Up, For Kids." Kotaku, Nov. 23, 2009. (Feb. 20, 2012) http://kotaku.com/5410944/obama-and-littlebigplanet-team-up-for-kids
• Video Games Blogger. "Scribblenauts Dictionary List of All 22, 802 Words." Sept 12, 2009. (Feb. 25, 2012) http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2009/09/12/scribblenauts-dictionary-list-of-all-22802-words.htm

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The Best Educational Video Games for Kids (and Adults)

Teaching your kids at home doesn’t have to mean painfully tearing your kids away from their games console. there are plenty of video games with educational content that you can incorporate into their learning..

We’d argue that a  lot  of video games offer valuable skills. Text-heavy RPGs or graphic novels encourage reading. Co-op games encourage teamwork. Skills like following instruction, map-reading, logic problem solving are more are frequently embedded in a host of games. But what video games are the best  educational games?

We’re not here to agree with your children when they tell you that Fortnite is beneficial to their education. It might be. We’re not sure. But there  are  a host of games that are blatantly educational in a number of ways.

We’ve highlighted a number of the best educational videogames below. Each of these games has an educational benefit to anyone who plays it, whether young and old. While we’re recommending these as beneficial to kids, they can also teach us adults a new thing or two, too.

1. Minecraft

• Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch and Android/iOS

Minecraft  has long been used as an educational tool, with schools using it to bolster their curriculum for years. At its most basic, it’s an open sandbox game that allows players to build their own world. That means utilising tools to manipulate the landscape around them.

But it’s much more than that. Microsoft has even doubled down on Minecraft ‘s educational properties by offering free-to-download educational add-ons . These allow children to explore a recreation of the International Space Station, for example, or look inside a human eye. The downloadable educational worlds have been created to focus on a variety of topics that kids will benefit from, such as marine biology, Greek history and renewable energy. There are even supporting lesson plans available, offering puzzles, writing challenges and building tasks to go along with.

Check latest prices of  Minecraft

2. Zoo Tycoon

• Available on PC and Xbox

Zoo Tycoon is a lot of fun to play, but it’s also one of the best educational games out there. At its most basic, it allows players to design and run their own zoos. It also allows you to wander around your zoo. It’s here where it becomes educational, as it teaches players about the animals they’re hosting.

It’s an excellent tool to teach children about animal conservation, learn facts about specific species and see their digital recreations up-close and personal. Almost every kid goes on a school trip to the zoo at some point; this allows you to do it from the comfort of your own home. Add to that the planning and management aspects, and Zoo Tycoon is brilliant for all ages.

Check latest prices of  Zoo Tycoon

3. Letter Quest: Grimm’s Journey

• Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Switch

Letter Quest: Grimm’s Journey  sees you play as a cartoonified Grim Reaper. You’re on a mission to rid the world of monsters, but rather than fighting them directly, you do so by spelling out words. Each level presents players with a grid of letters. In a set amount of time, it’s your job to spell as many words as you can – the longer the word, the more damage you do to your opponents.

If kids need a little help with their spelling, then  Letter Quest  is one of the best educational games they can play. The gameplay system in place encourages children to try to spell longer words while also offering a fun challenge at the same time.

4. It’s Quiz Time

• Available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox

It’s Quiz Time  might be more of a party game, but this general knowledge quiz does have some educational merit too. Players go head-to-head to answer questions in a series of categories. Some are multiple choice, some require you to sort answers into some kind of order. The more questions you get right, the higher you score.

There’s a varied selection of subjects on offer, including things like Nature, History and Geography. It’s a great way to strengthen your child’s (or your own) general knowledge – while also having a bit of fun at the same time.

5. Scrabble

• Available on PlayStation and Xbox (other versions exist on PC and mobile)

This digitised version of the popular board game allows you to play a family game of Scrabble without the risk of letter tiles getting tossed at each other. Is that a thing that happens? We can imagine that’s a thing that happens.

Scrabble , like  Letter Quest , encourages children to spell words out of the letters provided to them. The longer and more complex the word, the better they’ll score. The video game version allows players to play together locally as well as compete against CPU opponents if nobody else is around to play. Just like the traditional board game,  Scrabble  is not only fun, but also one of the best educational games out there.

6. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

• Available on Nintendo Switch

While Animal Crossing might not me the most obvious choice when it comes to the best educational video games, it’s one that’s worth letting your children play around in. Not only does it encourage useful skills like inventory management, money management (paying off debt, investing, etc.) and teamwork, the game’s Museum is where the real educational content begins.

A large part of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is fishing, catching bugs and digging for fossils. These can be taken to the museum where they’ll be displayed. But the Museum also provides an excellent bit of information about every creature or fossil you collect. Children will learn facts about weird and wonderful bugs and fish, as well as about dinosaurs and prehistoric animals.

Check latest prices of  Animal Crossing: New Horizons

7. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes  started life as a VR game but it’s since been ported to other formats. It’s not educational in the  traditional  sense, since it deals with diffusing a bomb. Not exactly the most child-friendly subject, but hear us out.

What’s special about Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes  is how it encourages players to work together. One player is presented with a randomly-generated bomb, with a series of numbers, wires, and symbols on it. The other player(s) are given a series of instructions, and it’s up to them to carefully relay how to diffuse the bomb to player one. It’s about communication, understanding instructions, and working well under pressure. They’re all very useful skills to have, and that’s why we think this is one of the best educational video games out there.

• Available on PlayStation

Dreams  isn’t your typical game. While there  are  games to play, the main draw of  Dreams  is as a creativity tool. Players can create their own games, works of art, and interactive experiences. While super complex things can be created with it, it’s also great for children too; providing a digital blank canvas for them to unleash their creativity onto.

The great thing about Dreams is it can be as simple or as complex as you like. For beginners, its tools are easy to get to grips with. But there’s also everything a user needs to create an incredibly detailed 3D world. It’s cute, colourful and provides extensive tools for bringing ideas to life. You never know; your kid might be a budding game developer, and Dreams  is a great tool to practice in.

Check latest prices of  Dreams

9. Assassin’s Creed Origins: Discovery Tour

While the violence and adult themes of  Assassin’s Creed Origins  means the main game isn’t suitable for children, it packs in a separate mode called Discovery Tour. It’s set in Ancient Egypt, and Discovery Tour allows players to explore the game’s world like a virtual museum.

Discovery Tour is free of any type of combat or quest; it’s simply about visiting historical sites, learning about them, and discovering what life in Ancient Egypt was like first-hand. It’s available to buy separately on PC, too, so there’s no risk of your children accidentally launching the main game. Young or old, this is one of the best educational video games you can buy.

Check latest prices of  Assassin’s Creed Origins

10. Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training (or Brain Age)

Available on Nintendo Switch or 3DS

Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training (or Brain Age as it’s known in North America) might be aimed at ageing adults who want to keep their brain functions tip-top, but it’s absolutely a useful tool in keeping youngsters sharp, too.

Brain Training is made up of a series of minigames, designed to be played every day, that test a variety of brain functions. You’ll do mental arithmetic, memory tests and complete word games. The games are quick and fast-paced, but are useful in improving basic skills, speed and competency. It’s one of the best educational video games for all ages, and picking it up for 10-15 minutes a day really does help to stay sharp and focused.

Check latest prices of  Brain Age

Co-owner and editor-in-chief

Kim's been into video games since playing Dizzy on her brother's Commodore 64 as a nipper. She'll give just about anything a go, but she's got a particular soft spot for indie adventures, roguelikes and puzzle games. If she's not gaming, she's building Lego or watching Friends reruns for the 96th time. You'll also find her work on That Brick Site and Space.com .

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We Reviewed the Best Video Games for Kids—Here Are Our Favorites

Age-appropriate options for everyone in the family

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Chloe Jeong

Video games are a fun activity for family and friends to play together , physically or virtually. Some video games are compatible with a wide variety of video game systems, while others will only work with one specific system. The best video games for kids are age-appropriate and fun without sacrificing your family’s budget (or kiddo’s allowance). 

Check reviews and the required ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) ratings to make informed choices about what games are right for your family. Think of these ratings like movie ratings; they tell parents and caregivers the best age for the game and what to expect in the content, such as language, violence, and more. 

To select the best video games for kids, we researched dozens of games on the market with ratings ranging from E to E10+. Moreover, we reviewed guidance on media use in kids from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Lastly, we considered age recommendations, material, ease of use, ratings, system type, value, and editor recommendations when reviewing products.

• Digital Consumption: What to Know

According to the AAP, it’s important to achieve a “balance between digital consumption and healthier activities,” and there are some key factors to look out for that may indicate problems with video gaming, including:

• Sleep deprivation
• Attention issues after gaming
• What virtual violence is conveying
• Lack of time management skills

Each video game includes a rating system that ranges from EC (Early Childhood), which means it’s suitable for ages 3 and up all the way up to Adults Only. Check the ratings prior to purchasing any games to ensure your child is playing an age-appropriate video game.

• How We Selected
• Understanding Age Ratings
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Family

Best overall, nintendo mario kart 8 deluxe.

Fun for a group

Beginner mode makes it easier for kids

Four players can play with one Switch

Limited system compatibility

Why We Recommend It

The Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is our top pick because everyone in the family can enjoy this classic character and his friends. Parents will appreciate the joy of playing with all their Mario Kart fan-favorite characters, while kids will love the excitement of the game. With the ability to support up to four players split-screen on the TV or Switch, it’s a fun option for a group.

The “E” rating ensures there’s nothing violent or inappropriate for younger players. Fans of the Switch will love this game; the only drawback is it can’t be played on other systems.

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch 
• ESRB Rating: E
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 4 players

Best for Preschoolers

Leapfrog leapland adventures learning video game.

HDMI stick and USB power cable (no system type)

Wireless controller

Explore shapes, letters, numbers, and more

Controller is a learning curve for little kids

Preschoolers will love going on a quest with the LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game. Kids search for keys to unlock Clever Castle as they explore shapes, colors, numbers, letters, and more. The brand sent one of our writers a sample of the game, and she loves the game's age-appropriateness for her preschooler. Simply insert the HDMI game stick and USB power cable into your TV to start playing immediately with the wireless controller .

• Game System Compatibility: N/A (TV)
• ESRB Rating: N/A (ages 3 years and up)
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 5 players

Best for Elementary Aged

Nintendo switch pokémon snap.

Easy to play

Laid back game play

Single player

Only available on Nintendo Switch

Younger fans will enjoy this addition to the Pokémon gaming family. A single-player game , players will meet a new teacher, Professor Mirror, to help lead the way. As you journey through new locales like jungles and beaches, players search for Pokémon and are challenged to snap photos of what they find.

The unique game can only be played on the Nintendo Switch . Fun and laid back, it’s especially good for those already familiar with Pokémon. 

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single player

Best for Preteens

Microsoft minecraft.

Two modes of play

Build or battle

Available on several system types

Sometimes lags

Building, battles, befriending, and blocks—Minecraft is a game that lets kids build their own world while battling creatures, mobs, and other players (if they want to). While rated E10+, the game isn’t violent (no blood), and players can actually report other players for not following community guidelines. Play in two modes —creative or survival—on various system types, including Xbox , PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch , Windows , and more. 

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, Windows, and more
• ESRB Rating: E10+
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single player or multiplayer

Best for Online Play

Innersloth among us.

Can play on wifi on nearly any device

Up to 15 players

Quick game play

Ability to interact with players

Among Us is a popular online game, meaning it can be played from nearly any device with Wi-Fi , including a phone or tablet. Taking place on a space station, in order to win the round, each player must complete tasks, with the twist that there’s an imposter on the ship that can sabotage or kill players.

A game of deduction, teamwork, and betrayal, it’s easy to play with a group and simple to generate a private code, so you only play with those you know. Each round is pretty quick , and while there is the opportunity to play with strangers, there is very limited play-to-player interaction.

• Game System Compatibility: Google Play, Apple App Store, Nintendo, PS 4, PS 5, Xbox, Online
• ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 15 players online

Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey

Courtesy of Amazon

3D kingdoms

One or two players

Unlock new figures

Main story is short

You can’t go wrong with Mario, especially when it involves 3D kingdoms full of surprises and secrets. Super Mario Odyssey lets kids visit new places , such as the skyscraper city New Donk City, with Mario and his friend Cappy as they try to save Princess Peach . 

• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 2 players

Best Sports

Ea sports fifa 23.

Amazing visuals

Single or multiplayer modes

Limited differences from previous versions

Soccer only game

Soccer fans will love this popular sports game that gets better and better each year. Amazing visuals make the games look like a real soccer match, and lots of playing options make it easy to play alone or with others . The game is available on almost all systems , so all soccer fans can get in on the action.

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, XBox, Playstation
• ESRB Rating: Everyone

Best Multiplayer

Team 17 overcooked 2 (xbox one).

Up to four players

Compatible on major system types

Slightly challenging

Up to 4 players can panic together in this chaotic cooking game . Chefs prepare meals, serve, and clean up dishes within a short time limit. Players will “knead” to work together and communicate with each other; once you get used to the kitchen, you may find new challenges to shake it up. 

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Playstation, Windows

Best Interactive

Ubisoft just dance 2023.

Up to six players

Family friendly

Smartphone can double as controller

Yearly version isn’t much different

Subscription required for access to additional songs

Get ready to move and groove with the latest version of the popular Just Dance game. Perfect for a crowd, up to six players will be challenged to keep the beat and move to the music with this fun, interactive game. It’s easy to play with a large group, simply use your smartphone as the controller . Master the moves, and you’ll look like TikTok stars!

• Game System Compatibility: Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
• ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer

Best for the Family

Sega tokyo olympic games 2020.

Both single or multiplayer

Customizable avatar

Everyone 10+ rating

Some games require taking turns instead of dual playing

Fun for the whole family, celebrate the spirit of the Olympics as players choose from 18 different competitive events . A versatile game, it can be played alone, with friends, or online with players (or friends and family) around the world. Families will also enjoy dressing their Olympian avatar and can choose from over 50 costumes.

• Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Playstation, Xbox
• Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single or multiplayer

How We Selected Video Games for Kids

To select the best video games for kids, we reviewed guidance from the AAP on media use in kids, such as how much screen time kids can have, and rating information from the ESRB. We also researched dozens of top-rated video games for kids on the market, analyzing their material, age recommendations, system type, ratings, and value. Our selection includes only video games for kids that are age-appropriate and fun and available at a variety of price points. 

How to Know If Games Are Age-Appropriate

One of the most important factors to consider when buying video games for your child is the age-appropriateness of the game. Video games are rated by the ESRB, which gives parents and caregivers an idea of a game’s appropriate age level usage. The ESRB has six main categories when it comes to ratings.

• E: This level rating means “Everyone,” so the content is typically suitable for all ages. There may be mild language or mild violence depending on the game. 
• E 10+: Meant for “Everyone 10+,” children from 10 years old and up can play the content in video games with this rating. It’s once again possible there will be fantasy, cartoon, mild language or violence, or suggestive themes. 
• T: Standing for “Teen,” this content is usually OK for children ages 13 years old and up. However, language is typically stronger, and there may be more crude humor, gambling, or violence depending on the video game. 
• M: “Mature 17+” is for those 17 years old and older due to content possibly containing blood/gore, sexual content, strong language, and intense violence. 
• A: This rating is for “Adults 18+” because the content is not suitable for children at all. Video games with this rating may contain gambling with real money, graphic sexual content, or long moments with intense violence. 
• RP: RP stands for “Rating Pending,” meaning video games with this rating have not yet been assigned a final ESRB rating. 

What to Look for When Buying Video Games for Kids 

• System Type: Because video games aren’t a “one-game-fits-all” when it comes to systems, you want to ensure the video games you’re looking at are compatible with your child’s system. Some of the more popular ones you’ve probably heard of include PlayStation, Xbox, PC games, or mobile games. Typically, you will see a description of which system the video game is compatible with on the packaging. Other cues to look for: XBOX is known for their green cases while PlayStation will show a “PS4” with the number being the console it matches to. 
• Cost: Many parents and caregivers may be shocked to see some of the most popular video games will cost more than $50, but this will depend on what type of system your child has. Consider the cost of the video game your child has had their eye on or what you think they may like. Some games may be on the cheaper end, but require extra costs once playing for additional features. Do your research on a video game to see exactly where your money (or your child’s!) money is exactly going. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to playing video games, the AAP recommends no more than two hours per day for older children. For some children, even this may be too much screen time, and there are warning signs to look out for if your child has been playing too often.

Sleep deprivation and attention problems after playing are signs your child may need to put the controller down for a much-needed break. Also be on the lookout for a lack of time management skills and what video game violence is conveying. Finding a balance with video games will ensure your child is staying healthy not only physically, but mentally, too. 

While video games have a bad reputation when it comes to children playing them, there are some benefits to the screen time . However, the benefits will depend on the type of video games your child is playing. 

Depending on the game, some will help your child enhance their problem-solving skills or hand-eye coordination. If your child likes Virtual Reality games, these help them with physical activity. But, it’s important to remember, video games should not replace playing outside or engaging in sports and moderation is key.

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year-old daughter. While she does not consider herself a gamer (does Tetris count?), her two sons are big video game fans and sometimes consider the Nintendo Switch an appendage to their body. 

Additional reporting by:

Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son. Katrina's preschooler loves LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures , which teaches him letters, numbers, shapes, and more.

Entertainment Software Rating Board. Ratings guides, categories, content descriptors .

American Academy of Pediatrics. Media and children .

McGrath M. Parents’ duty to make call on video games for kids . AAP News . 2015;36(2):28-28.

Nemours Kidshealth. Can playing video games be good for kids? (For parents) .

By Maya Polton Maya has more than 15 years of experience in digital media and communications and specializes in writing about family, food, and lifestyles. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Tufts University and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University.

• Recognizing letter names and sounds
• Recognizing lowercase and uppercase letters
• Identifying vowels and consonants
• Tracing letters and numbers
• Understanding that written words are separated by spaces
• Putting the letters of the alphabet in order
• Matching letter sounds to beginning word sounds
• Counting syllables
• Reading common high-frequency sight words
• Recognizing rhyming words
• Recognizing consonant digraphs and blends
• Spelling common words
• Engaging in wordplay
• Understanding and contributing to a short narrative
• Identifying the basic parts of a storybook (front cover, title page, title, author, illustrator, back cover)
• Identifying the main character and basic plot of a story
• Answering questions about the key details of a story
• Talking about likes, dislikes, and favorites
• Creating and illustrating a story
• Counting to 10
• Counting to 100
• Adding up to 10
• Subtracting up to 10
• Counting by base-10 blocks
• Skip-counting by 2s, 3s, 4s, 5s, 6s, 7s, 8s, 9s, and 10s up to 100
• Recognizing written numbers from one to ten
• Answering the question "How many?"
• Sorting by number
• Ordering by number
• Tracing numbers
• Sorting and organizing coins and bills
• Recognizing shapes and patterns
• Recognizing number bonds
• Solving "more" and "less" word problems
• Comparing numbers using greater than, less than, and equal to symbols
• Comparing the length of two objects
• Comparing the size of two objects
• Completing a pattern
• Estimating numbers
• Completing a number grid
• Recognizing the numbers on a set of dice
• Recognizing shapes
• Identifying shapes
• Counting the number of sides and corners a shape hass
• Painting and coloring
• Illustrating a story
• Identifying musical instruments
• Expressing themselves through art and design
• Recognizing and naming colors
• Identifying the five senses
• Naming and ordering the seasons
• Naming and ordering the months of the year
• Identifying food groups
• Sorting money
• Picking the right clothes for the weather
• Identifying technological tools
• Using a mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen
• Using a keyboard

For a full list of aligned Common Core standards, visit our Common Core page:

The Best Video Games for Preschoolers that are Fun, Safe and Educational

Kristina Cappetta

Does your preschooler enjoy playing video games ?

Have they already heard all the hype around games like “Roblox” ? Did they see a new commercial for a Marvel superhero game and beg to try it?

If your preschooler already loves video games, you’re not alone. Studies show that children ages 2-4 spend 5 minutes per day playing computer or console games, and 10 minutes playing mobile games.

While that may not seem like a lot of daily screen time , parents need to be aware of what games their children are playing and the consequences that can come from it.

We’re going to take a look at the things parents should consider before their preschooler plays video games as well as some of the benefits that may surprise you.

Related: 9 Kid-Friendly Video Games Like Elden Ring

Plus, we’ll discover the best games for young children to play on a game console or mobile device.

Should Preschoolers Play Video Games?

Are you worried about how video games will influence your children ? Research shows that 91 percent of kids between ages 2 and 17 play video games.

With so many kids playing games, parents are left wondering if they should be allowing their children to play, and if so, for how long.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , children under age 6 should get less than one hour of screen time daily. Keeping this in mind, here are some things to consider before allowing your child to play video games.

Set Boundaries

As the experts suggest, setting limits on how much time your child spends in front of a screen is a good idea.

Agree on a certain amount of time for them to play games and give them other ideas of what they can do with their time when they’re not playing video games.

Keep Game Consoles Out of Bedrooms

When game consoles are in a child’s bedroom it’s harder to keep tabs on what they’re doing. It’s also more difficult to keep track of time limits. By having games in a common area, you can better monitor what they’re playing and for how long.

Also, video game consoles like the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation often cost hundreds of dollars! It isn’t wise to leave a two or three-year-old alone with an expensive electronic device that they can break easily.

No Gaming Before Bed

Even a little gamer needs their sleep! Just as important as keeping game consoles out of bedrooms is not allowing video gaming before bed. This can contribute to poor sleep and not getting enough sleep.

Homework Before Gaming

Knowing the content of the games your child is playing is huge. Be aware of the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating of the games you buy to know what’s appropriate for your little ones.

Read reviews and know what the game is about before allowing your child to play.

Stay Away from Online Community Gaming

Many online games offer a community for people to play together. Multiplayer games connect players through the internet, often letting them voice chat or type to each other. Multiplayer games are not intended for preschoolers.

Little children should not be allowed to interact with strangers online in a multiplayer gaming environment. Beware of any games that allow online chats or any other types of interaction.

Popular video games for kids like “Minecraft” and “Fortnite” have both single player and multiplayer options, so make sure to monitor the games your kids are playing!

Encourage Activity and Exercise

Many researchers have looked into the problem of childhood obesity and playing video games. There is research to indicate that playing some games can promote unhealthy eating habits and lead to kids gaining weight.

If your child is playing video games, you’ll want to avoid them spending too much time being sedentary, which can lead to weight gain. Encourage them to get outside and exercise , and not to munch too many chips while they play!

Benefits of Preschoolers Playing Video Games

If you decide to allow your preschooler to play video games, there are several benefits that may surprise you. From helping with reading schools to boosting their creativity, video games have been shown to be positive if played appropriately.

1. Video Games Improve Visual-Spatial Skills

Many games are set in 3-D virtual worlds that they have to navigate themselves. When kids play these games, they have to work on their visual-spatial skills . This can help them improve their visual-spatial skills.

2. Video Games Boost Reading Skills

Studies have shown that children who play video games can get a small boost to their reading skills. One 2013 study found that dyslexic children who played action video games showed an increased ability to read faster and more clearly.

Researchers believe that gameplay that involves storytelling where kids need to figure out text instructions can help improve their reading skills . While most preschoolers don’t know how to read just yet, playing can boost their reading as they get older.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that playing video games should replace reading books!

4. Video Games Encourage Imaginative Play and Creativity

While preschoolers may have plenty of opportunities for creative play with other toys such as LEGOS and blocks, video games can also help because they give kids the chance to continue their imaginative play .

Some kids may even try to draw some of the characters they see in their games or try to recreate the game during role-playing activities.

5. Video Games Provide Teaching Opportunities

If you’ve ever played a video game with your preschooler, chances are they’ve taught you how to play instead of vice versa. It’s no secret that children are little sponges and pick up technology quickly.

As they learn how to play games themselves, they’ll gain the confidence to teach their peers and adults how to play too. This can also help to increase communication skills and even teach them teamwork as they teach others how to play.

25 Best Video Games for Preschoolers

When it comes to video games for young kids, some are educational, some are adventurous, and some are just plain fun. Here are 25 of the best video games for preschoolers.

Educational Video Games

1.  crayola scoot.

• Best for ages 3+
• Can be played on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
• Available from Amazon and PlayStation

Let your child explore different colors and see how many they can make with this came. They have to create a scoot character and perform tricks to splash different colors and make it to the finish line.

2. Sesame Street Once Upon a Monster

• Can be played on Xbox 360
• Available from Amazon

This is a great game to teach children kindness. Each little game has a moral to it. Kids are having fun while learning the importance of kindness. It’s a win-win all around.

3. Endless Alphabet

• Can be played on iPhone, iPad, Kindle Fire, Windows App, Android
• Available to download on various devices

“Endless Alphabet” is a mobile game for kids learning the alphabet and trying to build their vocabulary. There are simple words and colorful characters to help along the way.

4. Scribblenauts Unlimited

• Can be played on PC, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Xbox One
• Available from Amazon and to download on devices

This is the fourth of the “Scribblenauts” franchise which is based on solving puzzles and is age appropriate for little ones. Puzzles will help to improve cognitive skills.

5. PJ Masks Heroes of the Night

• Can be played on Xbox one

If your child loves the show “PJ Masks”, they’ll love this game. It’s adventure-based while being educational at the same time. This is a great game to promote cognitive skills as they find hidden gems throughout the game.

6. Team Umizoomi

• Best for ages 4+
• Can be played on Nintendo DS

This action-adventure game is fun for little ones who love the show. It also incorporates some math skills as kids go on exciting missions through the game.

7. Zoo Tycoon

• Can be played on Xbox One

Kids can learn some real facts about animals as they play this zoo game. They can create, manage and maintain their dream zoo and invite others to join them.

8. ABC Mouse

• Best for ages 2+
• Download through an app or PC

ABC Mouse is known for its educational content to teach children how everything from reading to math and science. Lessons are age appropriate, so kids learn at their level without getting frustrated.

Video Games to Help with Motor Skills

9. sesame street: ready, set, grover.

• Can be played on Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo Wii
• Available from Amazon and Nintendo

This Sesame Street game allows kids to move and stretch, helping with coordination throughout the various activities in the game. This is also a great choice if you want to get your child to move while playing video games.

Video Games for the Whole Family

10. disneyland adventures.

• Can be played on Xbox

If you’re a Disney family, this game is for your little ones. Kids can choose a character and walk around the Disneyland resort. It allows them to walk around the park and get to know the Disney characters better.

11. Hasbro Family Fun Pack

• Can be played on PlayStation 4

This is a fun pack that includes games for people of all ages. It includes video-game versions of Monopoly, Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and more. While some of the games may be a little tough for preschoolers, they’re bound to love some Monopoly family fun!

12. Hot Wheels Unleashed

• Can be played on PlayStation 5

If your child loves cars and your family does too, this can be the game for all of you. Your little one can collect some of the coolest Hot Wheels cars and build tracks. They can then compete in races and unlock more cool cars to play with.

13. Nickelodeon Kart Racers

This is a great game for some healthy competition. Choose from 12 iconic Nickelodeon characters. There are 24 different tracks to play on as kids race to the finish line.

Adventure Games for Little Kids

14. untitled goose game.

• Can be played on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PCs

This is a popular game that makes the player a goose on the loose in an unsuspecting village. Kids make their way around town causing all types of mischief. This is probably why younger children love to play this game!

15. Disney Dreamlight Valley

• Can be played on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X/S/One, Mac, PC

“Disney Dreamlight Valley” allows kids to cook meals, expand their towns and build friendships with a host of Disney characters. The further kids go, the more they’ll uncover the adventure in the game.

16. Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure

• Can be played on Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2

This game is a video game version of the Dora TV show’s 10th-anniversary special. It follows the same plot as the show but has many interactive aspects and mini games.

17. Rush: A Disney Pixar Adventure

This is a super fun game for little Pixar fans. Kids can solve puzzles and engage with their favorite Pixar characters as they dive into the Pixar world.

Fun Video Games for Kids

18. super mario 3d world.

• Can be played on Nintendo WII

You can’t mention fun video games without throwing in Super Mario. It’s a classic! This game is full of obstacles and plenty of puzzles to solve.

This can also be a great game for families to play since four people can play at once.

19. PAW Patrol: On a Roll

• Can be played on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS and PC

Based on the TV series “PAW Patrol”, this game includes 16 adventures featuring all 8 rescue pups and Ryder. It’s an interactive version of the cartoon that’s pure fun!

20. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

• Can be played on Nintendo Switch

Here’s another Super Mario game that’s pure fun. “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” has treasure troves, great visuals, and fun driving technology. Your kids will love it and there’s a good chance you will too!

21. The Smurfs Mission Vileaf

“The Smurfs Mission Vileaf” is a fun game that allows your child to find their way through vertical levels and explore the Smurf village to uncover all types of secrets. Kids have to go on an adventure to find the ingredients and free Smurfs to save the village.

22. Race with Ryan

If your child loves Ryan’s World Toy Reviews on YouTube , this game is for them. This is Ryan’s very own racing video game that kids can play alone or with a friend or parent. It’s just pure fun, and it’s Ryan!

23. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” is one of the most popular games for Nintendo Switch. Kids can create their very own paradise and make their own characters, home, and landscape. It’s a great game to get their creative juices flowing.

24. The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening

While you may have grown up playing “The Legend of Zelda,” think of this as a simpler version for your little one. “Link’s Awakening” is approachable for kids and has some great visuals that will draw kids in.

25. My Friend Peppa Pig

Based on the popular Nickelodeon show, this game is perfect for kids who are big Peppa fans. Let your child create and dress a character, ring Peppa’s doorbell, and begin a story that lets them explore their imaginations.

The Bottom Line on Video Games for Preschoolers

When it comes to video games for preschoolers, parents need to do their homework and find games that are age appropriate . Limiting screen time and taking an active role by playing with them is also important.

Keeping video games out of the bedroom and not allowing playing at bedtime can also avoid sleeping problems. Video games can bring benefits such as improving motor skills, boosting creativity and teaching kids to be better problem solvers.

If you’re comfortable with your preschooler playing video games, find the right combination of games and screen time to let them have fun and give you peace of mind.

For more video game ideas for older kids (and parents!) check out our list of The 25 New Video Games Kids Want This Christmas .

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Fun and Educational Games for 5-Year-Olds: A Smart Choice

Children at the age of 5 are vibrant, curious, and ready to absorb knowledge like sponges. As they embark on their educational journey, integrating fun into learning becomes pivotal. The concept of play-based learning takes center stage, harnessing the power of games to foster development. Acknowledging the significance of this developmental phase, educators and parents alike recognize the critical role of interactive and engaging activities in shaping a child’s foundational learning experiences.

Play is not merely a pastime but a potent tool for education. It seamlessly combines enjoyment with learning, providing a holistic approach to childhood development. Educational games tailored for 5-year-olds are instrumental in cultivating essential skills while keeping the learning process enjoyable. The immersive nature of play-based learning ensures that children are not just memorizing facts but actively engaging with the material, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts.

Table of contents

Enhancing cognitive skills, boosting creativity and imagination, fostering social and emotional development, digital vs. traditional games, board games, puzzles, and card games, educational apps and software, selecting the right educational games, educational games for literacy, math and logic games, art and creativity games, social and emotional learning, technology in educational games, family engagement, gamification in education, the future of educational games, frequently asked questions (faq’s), benefits of educational games.

Educational games for kids stimulate problem-solving, decision-making abilities and critical thinking skills for kids in young minds. They encourage exploration, improving memory retention and enhancing cognitive development. Moreover, these games create an environment where children can experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them, fostering resilience and adaptability.

Through games, children explore their creativity and imagination. Indoor activities for kids like drawing, storytelling, and crafts for kids in these games inspire innovation and artistic expression. These games act as a canvas for self-expression, enabling children to communicate their thoughts and emotions in imaginative ways.

Games instill valuable social skills such as cooperation, teamwork, and communication. Moreover, they aid in emotional development by teaching empathy, patience, and conflict resolution in a safe, playful environment. The collaborative nature of many educational games helps children understand the importance of working together towards a common goal, laying the groundwork for healthy social interactions.

Types of Educational Games

While digital games offer interactive experiences, traditional board games, puzzles, and card games promote tactile learning and family bonding. Both digital and traditional games hold unique benefits; digital games often cater to a tech-savvy generation, while traditional games offer a tangible, hands-on learning experience that fosters face-to-face interaction among peers and family members.

These classics enhance problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and patience, making them ideal for developing young minds. Additionally, board games often have multiple layers of learning, teaching children not just the rules but also sportsmanship, turn-taking, and the joy of both winning and losing graciously.

Technology-integrated games offer diverse learning opportunities, catering to different learning strategies and preferences. These apps and software often adapt to a child’s learning pace, providing personalized challenges that encourage growth and skill development .

Age-Appropriate Options

Choosing games aligned with a 5-year-old’s developmental stage ensures engagement and relevance. It’s crucial to consider not just the complexity of the game but also its themes, ensuring they are suitable and stimulating for the child’s age group.

Learning Objectives and Skills

Look for games that target specific skills like literacy, numeracy, creativity, and social interaction. By aligning these objectives with the child’s interests, parents and educators can ensure that learning feels less like a chore and more like an exciting exploration.

Safety and Quality Standards

Prioritize games that adhere to safety standards, providing a secure and enriching experience for young players. Ensuring that the content is age-appropriate and free from harmful elements is essential in creating a safe and conducive learning environment for children.

Reading Adventures and Story Games

Engaging story-driven games introduce children to narratives and develop their love for reading. These games not only focus on the text but also integrate visuals and sound, captivating young readers’ attention and fostering a deeper connection with storytelling.

Phonics and Spelling Fun

Games focusing on phonetics and spelling lay a strong foundation for language skills. By incorporating interactive elements like rhymes and word puzzles, these games make learning phonics enjoyable and memorable.

Writing and Journaling Games

Encourage creativity and language expression through writing-based games. These games provide prompts and exercises that stimulate imagination, empowering children to express themselves through words and illustrations.

Number Challenges and Counting Games

Games involving numbers and counting enhance mathematical proficiency. Through engaging activities like counting objects, solving number puzzles, and recognizing patterns, children develop a strong numerical foundation while having fun.

Problem-Solving and Puzzle Adventures

Logical puzzles stimulate problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills for kids . These games present challenges that require strategic planning and analytical reasoning, encouraging children to approach problems methodically and creatively.

Building a Foundation in Mathematics

Games that introduce mathematical concepts in an enjoyable manner pave the way for a strong mathematical base. By integrating math into games seamlessly, children can grasp abstract concepts such as addition, subtraction, and shapes more intuitively.

Drawing and Painting Adventures

Games involving art nurture creativity and self-expression. They provide a virtual canvas for children to experiment with colors, shapes, and textures, fostering an appreciation for artistic expression.

Encourage innovative thinking and craftsmanship through creative design and crafting games. These activities promote hands-on learning and spatial awareness, allowing children to transform their ideas into tangible creations.

Unleashing the Inner Artist

Activities promoting artistic exploration allow children to express themselves freely. By providing tools and challenges that encourage experimentation, these games empower children to discover and develop their unique artistic styles.

Cooperative Games

Games emphasizing teamwork and collaboration develop social skills. By working towards shared goals and navigating challenges together, children learn to communicate effectively and respect diverse perspectives.

Emotional Intelligence and Empathy Building

Games that address emotions and empathy aid in emotional intelligence development. They teach children to recognize and manage their emotions while understanding the feelings of others, fostering empathy and compassion.

Conflict Resolution in Play

Interactive scenarios in games teach children how to resolve conflicts peacefully. By simulating real-life situations, these games equip children with problem-solving skills and strategies to handle conflicts constructively.

The Role of Tablets and Computers

Modern education system in a transition phase. Technology offers interactive learning experiences but should be balanced with other activities. While digital platforms provide access to a vast array of educational content, it’s crucial to ensure a healthy balance between screen time and offline activities to support a child’s overall development.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Innovative technologies provide immersive educational experiences for enhanced learning. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) games create captivating learning environments, allowing children to explore concepts in a more tangible and engaging manner.

Balancing Screen Time

Maintaining a healthy balance between screen time and other activities is crucial for a child’s overall development. Parents and educators should monitor and manage screen time to ensure that children engage in a diverse range of activities, promoting physical, social, and cognitive development.

Playing Together as a Family

Involving the whole family in educational games strengthens bonds and creates memorable experiences. Family game nights not only encourage learning but also create opportunities for laughter, shared achievements, and valuable bonding time.

Involving Parents in Educational Play

Parents’ involvement fosters a supportive learning environment and encourages continuous engagement. By participating in educational games with their children, parents can actively contribute to their child’s learning journey and strengthen the parent-child relationship.

Building Strong Bonds

Shared experiences through gaming create lasting family connections and joyful memories. These moments not only enhance familial relationships but also create a positive association with learning, making education an enjoyable and integral part of family life.

Learning through Game Mechanics

Incorporating game elements in education makes learning more engaging and enjoyable. By integrating features like challenges, rewards, and progression systems, educational content becomes more interactive and motivates children to actively participate in their learning process.

Gamified Classrooms and Curriculum

Educators leverage gamification to enhance classroom engagement and learning outcomes. By gamifying lesson plans and educational activities, teachers create a dynamic learning environment that captivates students’ attention and encourages active participation.

Measuring Educational Outcomes

Assessing progress through gamified methods helps track learning achievements effectively. By using metrics and feedback loops embedded in educational games, educators can tailor learning experiences to address individual needs and monitor overall progress.

Technological Advancements and Trends

Advancements like AI, immersive technologies, and adaptive learning are shaping the future of educational games. Artificial intelligence enables personalized learning experiences, while immersive technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality revolutionize how children interact and learn from digital content.

Global Perspectives on Educational Gaming

Different cultures and regions embrace unique approaches to educational gaming, contributing to diverse perspectives. By incorporating cultural elements and diverse content, educational games can cater to a wider audience, fostering inclusivity and global awareness among young learners.

Innovations on the Horizon

Continual innovations promise more interactive, tailored, and effective educational gaming experiences. From AI-driven adaptive learning systems to collaborative online platforms, ongoing developments aim to make learning more accessible, engaging, and impactful for children worldwide.

Educational games for 5-year-olds seamlessly blend fun with learning, offering a myriad of benefits crucial for their holistic development. By choosing age-appropriate, engaging, and purposeful games, we can empower young minds to learn, grow, and thrive in an enjoyable learning environment. Embrace the power of educational games — it’s a smart choice for nurturing the bright minds of tomorrow. As technology advances and educational methodologies evolve, integrating innovative approaches to educational gaming will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape for young learners.

To get your hands on more educational and free resources on coding for kids , robotics for kids, financial education for kids , etc., do check out the BrightCHAMPS Page now!

A1. There are several excellent educational games suitable for 5-year-olds that promote learning while being engaging and fun. Some popular choices include “ABCmouse,” “Toca Boca” series, “Endless Alphabet,” “Sago Mini,” and “PBS Kids Games.” These games focus on various skills such as literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, tailored specifically to the developmental stage of a 5-year-old.

A2. For young children, including 5-year-olds, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time to about 1 hour per day of high-quality programming. This includes educational content that is interactive, engaging, and appropriate for their age. However, it’s essential to balance screen time with other activities like physical play, social interactions, reading, and creative pursuits to support overall development.

A3. Educational games can be valuable supplements to traditional schooling by reinforcing learning concepts in a more interactive and engaging manner. However, they generally cannot entirely replace the holistic approach of traditional schooling. Traditional schooling encompasses various elements like social interaction, hands-on activities, teacher-guided learning, and diverse educational experiences, which are crucial for a child’s overall growth and development.

A4. Yes, there are educational games specifically designed to promote multilingualism among children. Apps like “Duolingo for Kids,” “Gus on the Go,” “MindSnacks,” and “Little Pim” offer games and activities tailored to help kids learn different languages in a playful and interactive way. These games often use visuals, repetition, and gamification techniques to make language learning enjoyable and effective.

A5. Parents can monitor and limit screen time effectively by setting clear rules and guidelines. Some strategies include: Establishing designated screen time hours. Using parental control features available on devices to set time limits and content restrictions. Actively engaging with children during screen time, discussing what they are learning or playing. Encouraging a variety of activities beyond screens, such as outdoor play, reading, hobbies, and family interactions. Being good role models by managing their screen time and demonstrating a healthy balance between digital and non-digital activities.

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Gojmzo CVC Word Writing & Spelling Flash Cards, Preschool Learning Toddler Activities, Kindergarten Homeschool Supplies, Sight Words Reading Game, Montessori Educational Toys for 3 4 5 6 Year Old Kids

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• ✨CVC Word Writing & Spelling Flash Cards Set✨: Package includes 100 double-sided CVC sight words flashcards (one side is the word, and the other is the picture, fill in the blanks with words) and 4 dry erase markers (2 blue and 2 red) that have the erasers on top. It also comes with a nice drawstring bag and sturdy storage box for safekeeping.
• ✨Fun Educational Activity✨: This set contains cards with just the vowel missing or the beginning and ending letters missing, so both types of practice are included. Different ways to practice means the same type of activity stays exciting longer. The colors and pictures can catch the kid’s eyes and keep their attention, which can help them have fun while learning reading, spelling and phonics skills.
• ✨Preschool & Kindergarten Classroom Must Haves✨: This writing & spelling kit can be used as an excellent teaching tool for class and homeschool. It will also be great learning materials and resources for preschoolers, kindergartners & first graders who have learned letter sounds and are beginning to learn how to read and write cut words.
• ✨Hard Wearing & Reusable Learning Tool✨: This CVC word flash cards set is a hard wearing and reusable learning tool for toddlers and kids. The laminated flashcards are heavy duty and thick enough, so they won’t bend and will last for a long time. They are also very easy to clean but need to wipe away the marks right away and don't let them sit for days otherwise the marks might stain the cards.
• ✨Great Gifts Ideas✨: This CVC words set is an excellent multi-sensory educational toy, which can be a perfect Christmas, Easter, Birthday and Back to School gift for 3 4 5 6 year old boys and girls to learn early language skills.

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Gojmzo classic busy board can help toddlers learning basic dress skills.

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Gojmzo wooden cvc words spelling game is a fun toy that help toddlers reading, writing and making sense of letter sounds.

CVC Word Writing Flash Cards

This cvc word writing & spelling kit can be used as an excellent teaching tool for class and homeschool.

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Gojmzo flash cards set is a perfect educational toy that keeps toddlers learnig through play.

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