Image: MomJunction Design Team
It’s time to cut down your child’s screen time by getting a good board game that’ll enable your kid to spend time with family. So, here are some of the best board games for 5-6-year-old girls and boys that’ll enhance your child’s analytical, reasoning, and critical thinking skills. These games are entertaining, super easy, fun, and offer a learning experience as well. Two to six people can play these board games at a time. Plunge into this article and explore the tried-and-tested board games we have picked for you
Top Picks
21 Best Board Games For 5-6-Year-Olds
1. Best Fast-Paced:Thinkfun Zingo Bingo
Image: Thinkfun The Zingo bingo game is easy to learn and includes an easy-to-understand instruction manual and a unique zinger device. You need to slide the zinger, make a match, and fill in the card to win. This fast-paced, competitive game can enhance children’s coordination, language, and motor skills, and ensure endless fun. Seven players can play this game, and it is ideal for children in the age range of four to ten years. Click this review video to learn more about the tester’s experience on this product.
Pros
- Enhances critical thinking skill
- Ideal for early readers
- Promotes interaction
- Easy to clean up
- Easy to store
Cons
- Design of the dispenser may not be great
- Limited number of words
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 24,354 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
2. Best Engaging:Hasbro Gaming Classic Operation Game
Image: Hasbro Gaming Store The operation game for kids requires two 1.5V AA alkaline batteries. There are 12 plastic ailments in the set and a game guide to help the child understand. You can use tweezers to remove the ailments. The patient’s nose lights up when the tweezers touch the sides. In this game, the player that removes the most ailments wins. Your child can play this interactive board game alone or with friends. Learn more about the product in this video.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Fun and engaging
- Easy to play
- Develops hand-eye coordination
- Encourages interactive play
Cons
- Some pieces may be a bit small
- Some may not like the vibrating sound
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 13,202 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
Quick tip3. Best For Get-Togethers:Endless Games The Floor Is Lava
Image: Endless Games Perfect game for get-togethers or parties, this board game can be played by two to six players aged five and above. In this game, the players have to imagine the floor is lava. This kid’s board game promotes physical activity, imagination, and excitement. The stepping stones are cushioned, slip-resistant, durable, and ideal for indoor and outdoor usage. This tried-and-tested game for kids can enhance problem-solving skills and includes 27 challenge cards, an instructional manual, and a game spinner to make playtime more fun.
Pros
- Slip-resistant foam
- Suitable for game nights and sleepovers
- Helps improve balance
- Easy to learn
- Fun and entertaining
Cons
- Stones might be slightly thin
- May have a peculiar smell when new
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 10,653 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
4. Best Kid-Friendly:Monopoly Junior Board Game
Image: Monopoly The kid’s version of the classic board game Monopoly, this board game can teach your child about strategy. It is one of the best-rated kids’ games for 5-6-year-old girls and boys, and it includes tokens and kid-friendly properties such as the candy store, pet store, and video game arcade.
The rules are easy to understand, and the set contains 20 chance cards, four tokens, 48 sold signs, four character cards, 90 banknotes, and one dice. Two to four players can play this game simultaneously. This video gives you more information about the product.
Pros
- Cute token figures
- Fun game
- Single dollar bills for simple transactions
- Improves children’s negotiation skills
Cons
- Some children may find it a little too basic
- May not be easy to store
Did you know?5. Best Family Game:Mattel Blokus Game
Image: Mattel This strategy game features an XL game board made of plastic and is two inches larger than the regular version. Your child can learn the various intricate rules of the game in less than a minute.
It includes 21 pieces, and each piece should touch another of the same color at the corners. You need to protect the territory and stake your claim by fitting as many pieces as possible. This award-winning game offers a 30-minute playtime and can quickly become your little one’s favorite game, as it can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Pros
- Fun and challenging game
- Helps develop strategic thinking skills
- Easy to play
- Offers endless possibilities
- Sturdy board
Cons
- Some may find the tiles a little flimsy
6. Best Creativity Game:Hasbro Gaming The Game Of Life Junior
Image: Hasbro Gaming Store Easy to set up and play, the game includes attractions and action cards that change your path. The player who collects ten stars first wins the game. Children will have to choose from four mini-vehicles and make their own decisions and choices. With activities written on the card, such as acting, telling a story, and finishing a song, it can complement the little one’s imagination and creativity and quickly become one of their favorite games. Two to four players can play this board game at a time.
Pros
- Promotes interaction
- Features 3D car movers
- Ideal for beginners
- Single dollar bills for easy transaction
- Fast and fun game
Cons
- Spinner may not stay on the board
- Some instructions may not be easy to follow
"My family always has a blast when this game is pulled out. Its rules are straightforward, and it has just the right amount of playtime to keep the children engaged. It also evokes a lot of laughter, and the action cards bring a touch of thrill."
7. Best Classic: Regal Games Wooden Cribbage Board Game
Image: Regal Games The Regal Games Wooden Cribbage Board Game has nine metal pegs, a wooden board, and a deck of playing cards. If you are fond of playing games while traveling, this family board game might be suitable. You can play a good game with two to four players. The board game for kids is brightly colored and comes with gold, charcoal, and silver pegs for easy identification. It can be a great gifting option as well.
Pros
- Easy to play
- Easily foldable with pegs inside
- Portable and lightweight
- Comes with a well-written instruction manual
Cons
- May have some misaligned holes
- Board may not stay flat
"The board game is collapsible and small, so we love to carry it for outdoor activities like camping. It is durable, but I think the color contrast could be enhanced for clearer visibility. The gameplay is pretty easy."
8. Best Portable:Marvel Avengers Top Trumps Match Board Game
Image: Top Trumps Made of plastic, the board includes 25 cubes with your favorite Marvel heroes. You have to match five characters horizontally, diagonally, or vertically. The board game is ideal for 5-6-year-old girls and boys, is easy to set up, and includes a self-contained plastic case for portability. This simple game can be played by two players at a given time and offers a playtime of 15 minutes.
Pros
- Easy to learn and play
- Travel-friendly case
- Entertaining game
- Convenient to store
Cons
- Resetting it may take time
- Some cubes may not be easy to remove
9. Best Detective Game:Gamewright Outfoxed! A Cooperative Whodunit Board Game
Image: Gamewright If your child loves detective play and investigation, this could become their favorite game. The kit includes 16 suspect cards, 16 thief cards, 12 clue markers, four detective pawns, three custom dice, one fox figure, an evidence scanner, a game board, and a set of rules. The player has to move around the board and gather clues to rule out the suspect that has stolen the pot pie. Children can enhance their problem-solving skills and learn about detective reasoning through this animal-themed board game. Two to four players can play at a given time for 20-30 minutes.
Pros
- Thick play cards
- Sturdy and durable box
- Challenging game
- Ideal for beginners
- Fun and engaging
- Replayable
Cons
- Some may find the instructions confusing
10. Best Problem-Solving:Days Of Wonder Ticket To Ride First Journey Board Game
Image: Days Of Wonder This strategy board game is an ideal choice for kids in the age range of six to fifteen years. The player has to complete six tickets to claim the golden ticket. It includes an exclusive map, colored train cards, ticket cards, plastic trains, and simplified rules to grab and retain the child’s attention. Two to four players can play this game at a time for 15-30 minutes.
Pros
- Fun adventure game
- Ideal for beginners
- Easy to learn
- Develops strategy skills
- Helps learn about geography
- Suitable for family game nights
Cons
- Some pictures on the cards and game board may not match
- Some may find the game slow
11. Best Skill Development:PlayMonster Don’t Rock The Boat Skill & Action Balancing Game
Image: Image: Playmonster If your child loves ships and pirates, here’s one of the best games for six-year-olds and older children. It is a multiplayer game and can be a great bonding game for your family. You have to make the boat balance perfectly to win. It is a fun skill-and-action game that can become your child’s favorite game and also help them develop essential skills.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to understand
- Safe material
- No batteries required
Cons
- May not have enough game pieces
- Contains small parts which might cause a choking hazard
12. Best Adventure:Catan Junior Board Game
Image: Catan Catan Junior Board Game includes 106 resource tiles, one double-sided board, four building tiles, 32 ships, 28 pirate lairs, one ghost captain, one die, one tray, and rules. The player has to gather resources, collect gold, and build and protect lairs. This classic board game is available in multiple languages and ensures ample interaction and exploration. According to the reviewers, two to four players would take 30 minutes to play this kid’s version of the classic board game.
Pros
- Easy to learn and play
- Fun adventure game
- Helps improve strategic thinking skills
- Fast moving game
Cons
- Some may find the instructions hard to follow
- Some stickers may peel off
13. Best For Family Fun:Gotrovo Treasure Hunt Game
Image: Gotrovo You and your children can play this cooperative board game indoors and outdoors. Lay the trail, and let your children solve the clues and follow the trail to find the golden treasure. The game is designed with unique trails where no two trails can ever be the same. Suitable for multiple players, the classic board game includes 100 reusable cards, a puzzle board, a loot bag, jewel treasure, and a gold treasure bar.
Pros
- Promotes parent-child interaction
- Fun treasure hunt game
- Keeps children physically active
- Suitable for all ages
- Easy to learn and play
- Cooperative game
- Thick board
Cons
- Limited riddle cards
- Some may find the clues simple
14. Best Social Skill Builder:Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Pop-Up Game
Image: Nickelodeon This strategy board game is suitable for two to four players. The characters pop up in an exciting race, and it includes 16 colored pawns, a board, and a set of instructions. It is a junior version that helps enhance the child’s social skills.
Pros
- Sturdy plastic board
- Easy to play
- Push-and-roll dice
- Helps teach strategy
- Paw Patrol design to engage children
Cons
- Does not include extra pawns
- Game can be time-consuming
15. Best For Nature Lovers:Learningherbs.Com Wildcraft! Family Board Game
Image: Learningherbs Wildcraft! An Herbal Adventure Game can help your child learn about 25 medicinal plants–where and how they grow and how to utilize them. This adventure cum educational board game involves waterfalls, logs, and deer trails that will take you ahead or bring you back in the game.
The board has a water-based coating on the top and is made of recyclable materials and oil-based vegetable inks, making it a trusted choice. It contains four player pieces, 54 plant-themed playing cards, 52 trouble cards, spinner, 25 cooperative cards, and instructions. Up to four players can enjoy this game for 45-60 minutes.
Pros
- Perfect game for beginners
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Fun and cooperative game
- Promotes parent-child interaction
- Includes three fun printables
Cons
- Some may not find it highly engaging
- May not have good replay value
16. Best Directional Challenge:Haba Rhino Hero Stacking Card Game
Image: Haba Store The PTA-tested and approved game includes 31 roof cards, 28 walls, one foundation, and one rhino hero. The players have to help the rhino reach the wobbly construction and build a strong and tall skyscraper. The roof cards tell the next player the direction on how to stick the walls. There are two difficulty levels, and up to five players can play this fast-moving game for around ten minutes.
Pros
- Easy to learn and play
- Fast-paced game
- Fun for all ages
- 3D card stacking game
- Made of sturdy cardboard
- Helps improve strategic skills
- Easy to carry
Cons
- May not have great replay value
"I like that this game lets my whole family participate. The design promotes creativity, and It's portable and sturdy. It may not be replayable for some older kids, but it still allows a fun few minutes of play."
17. Best Quick-Play Fun:Fireside Games My First Castle Panic
Image: Fireside Games This board game includes a group of monsters racing in the woods to come to the castle. Players have to catch the monsters before they smash the castle. It is one of the best-rated kid’s games and includes a castle piece, a wall, 26 castle cards, 16 monster tokens, and four how-to-play cards.
This skill-building board game teaches children about cooperation, strategic thinking, matching, and planning. Up to four players can play this game for 20 minutes.
Pros
- No reading required
- Easy to learn and play
- Made of thick cardboard
- Good replay value
- Fun and cooperative game
Cons
- Some instructions can be confusing
18. Best Math Skill Builder:Da Vinci’s Room Sums In Space An Addition Subtraction Math Game
Image: Da Vinci's Room Teach your child basic math skills and provide them with various educational benefits with this classic game of building blocks. This problem-solving board game teaches children about a wide range of mathematical concepts, including addition, subtraction, number comparison, and more. The game encourages children to work together as a team towards a common goal. This space-themed board game includes four-player pawns, one rocket ship token, one instruction set, and three dice. Two to four players can play this educational game for hours.
Pros
- STEM toy
- Two different game modes
- Suitable for game night
- Good replay value
- Easy to learn and play
- Three difficulty levels
Cons
- Single-digit math problems
19. Best Memory-Building:Educational Insights Robot Face Race
Image: Educatiol Insights Made of cardboard and plastic, this cooperative memory game helps develop children’s reasoning and problem-solving skills. In this game, the players have to find the matching robot faces. The one who matches the five robot faces wins the game. You need to shake the randomizer to reveal the robot’s eyes, mouth, nose, color, and face. It includes 120 robot heads, one randomizer, and 20 tokens in four colors and can be played by two to four players.
Pros
- Fun feature finding game
- Suitable for family game night
- Helps develop visual discrimination skills
- Easy to play
- Teaches children about winning and losing gracefully
Cons
- Does not have great replay value
- Board may not be highly durable
20. Best Multiplayer Action:Winning Fingers Shape Toy Puzzle Game
Image: Winning Fingers Children need to fit the shapes in the mold quickly to win this game. The shapes are stored securely on the box’s side when not in use. It helps doubles as a STEM toy and helps enhance concentration and improve fine motor skill levels. The travel-friendly and classic board game includes three difficulty levels and has 20 pieces. This fast-moving game can be played by two players at a time.
Pros
- Easy to play
- Sturdy board and shapes
- Competitive game
- Develops hand-eye coordination
- Fast-paced game
Cons
- Retrieving the pieces after the game can be challenging
- Board may be smaller than you expect
21. Best Compact:Mighty Fun! Brain Freeze
Image: Mighty Fun! This game is tested and approved by parents and educators and it teaches children about a wide range of mental skills. It is quick to set up, with minimal components, and easy to learn, making it one of the best board games for 6-year-olds and younger children. The players race to guess the treat correctly, and the one who guesses right wins the game. It includes two Brain Freeze boards, two shields with a stand, two pens, two wipe cloths, and a rule book. Two players or teams can play at a time.
Pros
- Strategy building game
- Helps improve deduction and logical thinking skills
- Colorful board game
- Good replay value
- Promotes interaction
Cons
- May be slightly complicated
How To Choose The Right Board Games For Five-Six-Year-Olds?
Consider the following factors when choosing the right board games for 5-year-olds or 6-year-olds.
- Preferences: Make sure you talk to your child before you get a game for them. Know their likes, dislikes, interests, favorite themes, etc., to pick a product that your child would love playing with.
- Players: Make sure the game allows playing with a flexible number of people for fun group activities.
- Educational benefits: Choose a game that provides an educational experience to your child. In case your child is not very keen on studies, this method would be beneficial.
Can I Change The Board Game Rules To Help My Child Understand?
Yes, you can change the board game rules to help your child understand easily. However, make sure you do not change the rules frequently as the child would never learn to abide by them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do board games help 5-6 years old?
Board games are not only fun to play but can also help improve the different skills of 5-6-year-old girls and boys. They enhance analytical and critical thinking skills while entertaining, especially when playing with more than two people.
2. How do I keep my five-year-old from losing all the pieces of a board game?
Adult supervision while storing the pieces can teach the child to be responsible. We recommend board games that do not have many pieces. In case a game has many pieces, you can store them in a box such that it becomes easy to access whenever possible.
3. My child can’t sit still very long, can he play board games?
The key to choosing a game that your child can play for a long time is to check if the theme of the game appeals to the child’s tastes and preferences. You can also invest in a relatively easier and simpler board game, to begin with, and check the maximum duration it takes to complete the game.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have prepared this list of the best board games for 5–6-year-olds after scouring various trusted website reviews and forums to find the products with the highest ratings. We have also ensured that these games are age-appropriate and safe for kids by going through the features of each product. In addition, this article includes a buying guide and pointers on choosing the right board game for your child.
The Bottom Line
Board games promote reasoning and thinking skills in children while providing them with great entertainment. Since board games are designed for different age groups, it is crucial that you choose easy-to-understand and moderately challenging board games for 5-year-olds and younger children. Our top recommendations include the Thinkfun Zingo Bingo for language enhancement, the interactive Hasbro Gaming Classic Operation Game for improving hand-eye coordination, and the colorful Mattel Blokus Game for enhancing strategic thinking skills. As board games are designed around various themes, knowing your child’s interests and preferences will help you find a game they enjoy. Additionally, since board games are ideal for group play, you can choose a best-selling one for multiple players so your child can play the game with their gang.
Infographic: Benefits Of Board Games For Five To Six-Year-Olds
Board games can be fun and engaging for children of all ages, including five to six-year-olds. There are numerous types of board games that might pique your child’s interest and encourage mental stimulation, including educational board games, memory board games, word board games, puzzle board games, storytelling board games, and number board games. In addition to providing entertainment, board games can also have several benefits for young children. So, check out the infographic to learn about the advantages of board games for your child. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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