21 Family Game Ideas for Fun Ways to Spend Time Together

Add these family game ideas to your list of fun ways to spend time together.

You'll find a variety of games that a wide range of ages can enjoy.

Make the most of the special time you have with family and friends with these 21 games (plus tips and tricks for having a blast!).

Easily Make Family Fun Nights Rock!

I love family game nights.

We have set a game night on our family calendar for years.

And you can bet that our family does everything possible to not miss this night!

If necessary, I tweak our relaxed schedule or move the fun to a different night. But, I make sure to give everyone a head's up because we look forward to it so much.

Over the years, we’ve tried several family game ideas to see what's the biggest hit.

Our family loves board and card games. Sometimes, we play silly games, like the telephone game or Simon Says. But, we generally pick board games.

I've discovered that it's super helpful to have a collection of games (and family game night ideas).

Don't worry! You don't have to go broke - follow these creative and frugal tips for creative a collection!. With this approach, you can find something for everyone and have plenty of laughs together.

Our family takes board games with us when we go on vacation and even on soccer travel weekends. And game are always a hit at holiday parties! 

Here are a few of our favorite games. Check out our family game ideas - and please let me know in the comments section if there's a game or two that you'd add to this list

21 Family Game Ideas for Super Fun Together

In this list, you'll find a variety of card and board games. I also highly suggest (and thing you'll have a lot of fun with) simple games, like a scavenger hunt, deck of cards, or printable Mad Libs.

You may want to give out prizes to the winners or just keep it fun. Our family goes with the "fun" approach (although once we had a blast giving out pennies for each game won!).

Tip:  At the end of the game, congratulate everyone for being a good sport and making it a positive experience for all.

1. Pie in the Face

I don’t think a single kid in the universe doesn’t think Pie in the Face is awesome. The game uses a spoon to smash whipped cream in your face. Kids think it’s so funny, especially when their parents get hit with the whipped cream. 

The game is messy but hilarious. There are a few versions to try, too! I highly suggest adding this to your list of family game ideas.

Pie Face GamePie Face Cannon GameHasbro Gaming Pie Face Showdown GameHasbro Gaming Pie Face Sky High Game

 

2. Chutes & Ladders

Chutes & Ladders is a classic beginner board game for families. This game is ideal for kids three years old and up for two to four players. No reading is needed and it’s full of twists and turns that everyone loves. 

You can try one of our free printable versions, like Snakes and Ladders, Spiders and Ladders, and Candy Canes and Ladders.

If you’re looking for a board game for a beginner, this is the one for you. 

Hasbro Chutes and LaddersHasbro Gaming Marvel Spider-Man Web Warriors Chutes & Ladders Game (Amazon Exclusive)Hasbro Gaming Chutes and Ladders: Peppa Pig Edition Board Game for Kids Ages 3 and Up, for 2-4 PlayersHasbro Gaming Chutes and Ladders: Disney Princess Edition Board Game for Kids Ages 3 and Up, Preschool Game for 2-4 Players (Amazon Exclusive)

 

3. Twister

Another classic that's fantastic for getting up and moving. You can even count it as homeschool physical education 😉

If you have a large family (or would like a bit of extra space - especially playing with a large group), you've got to try Twister Ultimate! It's one of our favorite family games. The boys think it's hilarious to see mom trying to twist and turn without falling.

TwisterTwister Ultimate: Bigger Mat, More Colored Spots, Family, Kids Party Game Age 6+; Compatible with Alexa (Amazon Exclusive)

 

4. Go Fish

I introduce Go Fish when my kids are around three years old. It's a great way to teach basic card skills.

This fun game is available at most dollar stores (like Dollar Tree). And it’s perfect if you have little kids at home that might not be ready for some other board or card games. 

Continuum Games Go Fish Classic Card Game Fun for Children Age 3 and Up

 

5. Speak Out

Here’s another game that is tons of fun. And there's a version for kids vs. adults. You put a mouthpiece and try to guess what the card is. 

Seriously, it’s popular for a reason. And kids adore it. 

Hasbro Gaming Speak Out Game Mouthpiece ChallengeSpeak Out Game (with 10 Mouthpieces)Hasbro Speak Out Kids Vs Parents GameHasbro Gaming Speak Out Expansion Pack: Misheard Song LyricsHasbro Gaming Speak Out Expansion Pack: Fun With Food

 

6. Jenga 

Another family favorite is Jenga. It's recommended ages six years old and up. I've found, however, that you can practice playing with younger kids by using about half the wood blocks.

Jenga is super fun, but it takes patience and fine motor skills to slide out the wooden blocks without knocking them all over.

My boys will pull these wood game pieces out during our homeschool morning time while I'm reading aloud. They use them for all sorts of hands-on fun!

Jenga Game Wooden Blocks Stacking Tumbling Tower Kids Game Ages 6 and Up (Amazon Exclusive)Hasbro Gaming Jenga: Super Mario Edition Game, Block Stacking Tower Game for Super Mario Fans, Ages 8 and UpJenga Giant Family (Stacks to Over 3 Feet) Precision-Crafted Hardwood Game (Authentic Brand Game) (01506-19-noAcc)

 

 

7. Hedbandz

Our family LOVES Hedbanz! And there are Junior versions for kids five years old and up and a kids version for eight years old and above. 

Each player takes turns wearing a plastic headband and attaching a card to the band on their forehead. Then, the player tries to guess what’s on their forehead by asking questions to figure out what they are. 

You can make your own cards with custom themes, too. The boys and I made this Dr. Seuss version.

Spin Master Hedbanz Picture Guessing Board Game New Edition, for Families and Kids Ages 8 and upHedBanz Special Edition, Guessing Game for Kids and Adults with 25 Extra Cards (Edition May Vary) ( Ages 7 and UP )HedBanz Junior Family Board Game for Kids Age 5 and upHedBanz Harry Potter Party Game for KidsSpin Master Games, Disney HedBanz 2nd Edition Board Game

 

8. Life 

This classic game rocks!

I grew up playing Life - and I bet you did, too. It’s time to teach our kids how to play Life!

It’s one of my favorite family game ideas. Your kids get to experience a fun way to see how different decisions change the future and what can happen.

Hasbro Gaming The Game of Life Board Game Ages 8 & Up (Amazon Exclusive)Game Of LifeThe Game of Life Junior Board Game for Kids Ages 5 and Up, Game for 2-4 PlayersHasbro Games The Game of Life Electronic BankingHasbro Gaming The Game of Life: Super Mario Edition Board Game for Kids Ages 8 and Up, Play Minigames, Collect Stars, Battle Bowser

 

9. Charades

Charades is another one of those classic family game ideas that everyone loves.

You can now get Charades for Kids with three levels of play so younger players who cannot read can participate too. It’s ideal for kids four years old and up, so almost your entire family can enjoy Charades together. 

Pressman Charades for Kids -- The 'No Reading Required' Family Game, 5After Dinner Amusements: Charades: 50 Cards with 200 Playful Prompts (Charades Game for Adults and Family, Portable Camping and Holiday Games)Family Charades Card Game by Outset Media - Travel Friendly Family Charades Game - Includes Over 300 Charades - Perfect for Parties, Vacations, and Holidays - Ages 8+Party Charades Game (Amazon Exclusive) – Contains 550 charades – Great Family Game for 2 or More Players Ages 10 and up by Outset MediaPicture Charades for Kids - No Reading Required! - An Imaginative Twist on a Classic Game Now for Young Children - Contains 4 Desk, 192 Cards Total - Ages 4+

 

10. Family Feud 

If you love the show, then you need to grab the game to play at home.

Family Feud is a hilarious game. It might not be quite as fun as the show, but your kids will still have an excellent time. 

The original Family Feud game is recommended for ages 12 and up, but they have different versions created for younger kids. 

Family Feud Big Buzzer Game, Amazon Exclusive “Buzz in” with The Electronic Buzzer Board Game for Hilarious Family Fun, Ages 8 and upSteve Harvey Family Feud, Kids Vs Parents Edition Family Party Game, Ages 8 and upFamily FEUD Kids Edition Card Game, Kid-Friendly Questions, 150 Question Cards, 50 Fast Money Cards, Complementary App with Sound Effects from The Show

 

11. Hungry, Hungry Hippos

Here’s another perfect game for a mix of ages. It’s recommended for ages four and up, but I think three-year-olds can play this if they understand that the marbles don’t belong in their mouths.

It’s such a fun and simple game. Your kids don’t have to learn any gameplay rules, per se. They just have to tap the hippos and make them collect the marbles.

It’s easy to play and provides hours of fun. 

Hungry Hungry Hippos Tabletop Game (Packaging May Vary)Hungy Hungry Hippos Unicorn EditionHasbro Gaming Hungry Hungry Hippos Dino Edition Board Game, Pre-School Game for Ages 4 and Up; for 2 to 4 Players (Amazon Exclusive)

 

12. Blokus

If you’re looking for more strategy games for your family, Blokus is a great option. And it involves no reading!

Kids who are seven years old and up can enjoy this game.

It’s like competitive Tetris. Every player has colored pieces, and they have to place their blocks with the colors touching while trying to block the other players simultaneously. So, you need a strategy to win. 

Mattel Blokus BlokusTravel BlokusMattel Blokus Junior Strategy Game for Kids and Family, Learning Game with 8 Mini Games for 5 Year Olds and UpBlokus Roll & Write Family Dice Game with 4 Dice, 4 Dry Erase Boards and 4 Markers, Makes a Great Gift for 7 Year Olds and Up

 

13. Uno

One of the first card games that we teach our kids is Uno. There are many versions to try and enjoy.

Our family plays Uno for hours. It's one of those games that you'll want to play again and again. Just pick a dealer (or take turns) and have a grand time!

Bulex Mattel UNO: Classic UNO Card Game, Fun Card GameMattel Giant UNO Family Card Game with 108 Oversized Cards and Instructions, Great Gift for Kids Ages 7 Years and OlderUNO: SpinUNO Space Jam: A New Legacy Themed Card Game Featuring 112 Cards with Movie Graphics, Kid, Movie & Sports Fan Gift Ages 7 Years & Older.UNO FLIP Marvel Card Game with 112 Cards, Gift for Kid, Family & Adult Game Night for Players 7 Years & OlderUNO SpongeBob SquarePants Card Game with 112 Cards & Instructions for Players 7 Years Old & Up, Gift for Kid, Family & Adult Game NightUNO Mario Kart Card Game with 112 Cards & Instructions for Players Ages 7 Years & Older, Gift for Kid, Family and Adult Game NightMattel Games UNO Emojis Multicolor Basic PackMattel Games UNO Minecraft Card Game, Now UNO fun includes the world of Minecraft, Multicolor, Basic PackUNO Harry Potter Card GameZelda Uno Card Game Special Legend Rule Exclusive Edition

 

14. Operation 

Operation is a blast! It requires some fine motor skills to pick up the pieces without hitting the edges.

Of course, if your kids are like mine, they’ll hit the edges on purpose to make the board vibrate 😂

This game isn’t ideal for toddlers. It’s best for kids four to five years old and up because of the small pieces.

Hasbro Gaming Classic Operation GameTrolls Operation Board GameRudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer OperationHasbro Gaming Operation Game: Star Wars The Mandalorian Edition Board Game for KidsOperation Game: Star Wars Chewbacca EditionOperation Game: Star Wars Edition

 

15. Five Second Rule

A few friends told me to get this game for our family.

It’s a game that challenges your children (and you) to be creative. You have five seconds to come up with a list of three things.

You really won’t believe the things that come out of your mouths. Of course, it makes everyone laugh and gives you a bit of an adrenaline rush as well. 

Like many other games, Five Second Rule offers a Junior version for kids six years old. The original version is best for kids 12 years old and up. 

5 Second Rule, Family Game, GF0065 Second Rule Jr Junior Board Game Bundle with Drawstring Bag5 Second Rule Spintensity -- Randomized Timer Gives More or Less Time -- Spin to Win -- Ages 14+5 Second Rule Disney Edition — Fun Family Game About Your Favorite Disney Characters — Ages 6+

 

16. Pictionary

You and your kids don’t have to be amazing artists to play Pictionary. Everyone draws and your family tries to guess what the other drawing is. Pictionary was released in 1985 and it’s been a family favorite ever since. 

You can try our free Harry Potter-Inspired Pictionary game for some extra fun. Just make sure to have some pencils!

Pictionary Card Game, Makes a Great Gift for Kid, Family or Adult Game Night, 8 Years and OlderPictionary Quick Drawing Board & Guessing Game for Family, Kids, Teens & Adults, with Dry Erase Boards, Special Markers & Clue Cards with a Unique Catch-All Category [Amazon Exclusive]Pictionary Jr

 

17. Scrabble 

We play Scrabble with our older boys late into the night. Not only is it great for vocabulary development, but it’s a fun, competitive game that will encourage your children to use their thinking skills.

I encourage you to grab a Scrabble dictionary as well and use it while playing to even the playing field. 

Scrabble GameThe Official SCRABBLE Players Dictionary, Sixth EditionHasbro Scrabble Deluxe Edition (Amazon Exclusive)Scrabble Junior GameHasbro Gaming Scrabble Junior: Disney Junior Edition Board Game, Double -Sided Game Board, Matching and Word Game (Amazon Exclusive)

 

18. Farkle

Our family bought Farkle years ago for a weekend trip and it’s been a family favorite since then.

Farkle is a dice game where you try to get the most points each round. But if you Farkle, then you lose all of your points.

You have to be smart, yet take some risks at times, to win the game. 

It's suggested that the game is for kids eight years old and up, but you can help your kids play the game if they have basic math skills.

Classic Farkel GameBrybelly Farkle with Friends - The Classic 6-Player Dice Game in a Premium Storage Tin - Colored Dice with Matching Cups - Gaming & Family Party Fun for Kids, Teens, Adults, & SeniorsBrybelly Farkle: The Classic Family Dice Game | Set Includes Dice Cup, Set of 6 Green Dice, 25 Scorecards, and Storage Box

 

19. Clue

Who doesn’t love the board game, Clue? It’s one of the most popular board games. I suggest getting the classic version for family game night. 

Someone committed a murder, and you have to use the clues to figure out who did it and how. You’ll feel like an investigator, and each time you play, the answer is different. 

Clue GameHasbro Gaming Clue Card Game for Kids Ages 8 & Up, 3-4 Players Strategy GameGiant Clue Classic Mystery Party Retro Board Game with a Big Twist: Large Rooms, Giant Cards, and Foam Tools, for Kids and Families Ages 8 and upClue Junior Board Game for Kids Ages 5 and Up, Case of The Broken Toy, Classic Mystery Game for 2-6 PlayersCLUE: Scooby Doo! Board Game | Official Scooby-Doo! Merchandise Based on The Popular Scooby-Doo Cartoon | Classic Clue Game Featuring Scooby-Doo Characters | Gather The Gang and Solve The Mystery!Hasbro Gaming Clue: Wizarding World Harry Potter Edition Mystery Board Game for 3-5 Players, Kids Ages 8 and Up (Amazon Exclusive)Hasbro Clue Game: Star Wars EditionClue Dungeons & Dragons | Collectible Dungeons and Dragons Clue Game (2019 Version) | Officially Licensed D&D Board Game

 

20. Scene It! 

Is your family huge fans of classic TV and movies?

Scene It! is a trivia game that focuses on classic TV and movies, including Disney movies. The game uses puzzles, movie clips, photos, and actors based on their works. 

This game is excellent for parties as well! 

Scene it? Movie Edition DVD GameHarry Potter - The Complete Cinematic Journey2nd Edition Disney Scene It DVD GameScene It? Deluxe Marvel Edition

 

21. Apples to Apples

Apples to Apples is a word association game. Each round has some crazy comparisons that will cause everyone to laugh. 

Another excellent reason to play Apples to Apples is that it works for up to ten players, so bring it to parties where it’s always a hit. 

Mattel Apples to Apples Party Box The Game of Crazy CombinationsApples to Apples Junior the Game of Crazy Comparisons! [Packaging May Vary]Mattel Games Big Picture Apples to Apples GameDisney Apples To Apples - The Game Of Goofy ComparisonsApples to Apples: Marvel Edition Board Game of Amazing Combinations for 4 to 8 Players Ages 12 Years & Older, Gift for Kid, Adult or Family Game NightMattel Games Disney Apples to Apples Game [Packaging May Vary] [Amazon Exclusive]

 

What Do You Think of These Family Game Ideas?

Having family game nights is a fantastic way to spend time together.

Whether you’re playing Scrabble until late at night or enjoying a round of Uno with the entire family, playing games with your kids totally rocks.

p.s. What family game ideas would you add to this list? Please share in the comments area below!

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