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Engaging in some interesting computer games for kids will keep your little ones entertained for a certain time. Gone are the days when children hardly knew how to use a computer. Instead, Gen-Z kids are hooked on their mobile phones for most of the day. And channeling this addiction into ways of learning something with the help of computer games is an ideal choice. In today’s digital age, choosing the right computer games for children is crucial not only for entertainment but also for fostering educational growth and skill development. However, with so many options available, parents can be confused about selecting the right one for their child. Read on for some of the best free online games for kids.
Key Pointers
- Children can learn and have fun with these educational and entertaining games, such as Kindercomp or Minecraft.
- Mario will help your children master typing skills in the “Mario teaches typing” game.
- The Nancy Drew mysteries game will enhance their cognitive skills with puzzles and riddles.
- Civilization, Bingo, and many more computer games for children.
Benefits Of Playing Computer Games For Kids
Playing computer games can offer various benefits for children (1). These include:
- Enhancing cognitive skills through problem-solving and strategy.
- Improving hand-eye coordination and reaction time.
- Encouraging teamwork and social interaction in multiplayer settings.
- Providing an engaging way to learn new concepts and skills.
- Providing visual and interactive aids for those with learning disabilities.
Besides these skills, computer and video games, when designed well, can have numerous other benefits for kids. According to research conducted under UNICEF, well-designed video games can help children develop a sense of control, experience feelings of achievement, regulate emotions better, build social connections, improve their imagination and creativity, and understand and express themselves better (2).
Computer Games For Kids
Computer games for kids have fascinated young minds ever since their introduction in the late 20th century. With the progress in technology over the past few decades, computer games have become complex and advanced, implementing sounds, pictures, and ideas that hook kids and teens. If you are looking for some of the best computer games that will entertain and enrich your kids, look no further. We have compiled some of them in the list below, along with their Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings, so you can decide which game is developmentally suitable for your child.
Kid Computer Games From The 90s
Who does not like a good retro game? These games from the 90s have simple graphics but entertaining gameplay content, making them the perfect choice for beginners and intermediate players.
1. Munchers
Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC) created one of the famous 90s kid computer games, the Munchers. This game teaches children the basics of math and grammar. While Number Munchers was released in 1990, Word Munchers has been available since 1985. Both the children’s games are quite exciting. These games revolve around an object whose job is to eat all the numbers or words according to the instructions on the screen. The object has to keep itself safe from the Toggles as well.
ESRB rating: Everyone
2. Math Blaster
Though originally released in 1983 by Davidson & Associates, the series became famous in the 90s. A total of 20 games of this child computer game were released between 1990 and 1999 in the Blaster Learning System. Other than Math, the series also focuses on other subjects. For example, Reading Blaster helps children learn language and arts.
ESRB rating: Everyone
3. The Carmen Sandiego Series
Any 90s kid who was fond of playing educational ‘90s computer games would remember the Carmen Sandiego Series with a mysterious, trench-coated criminal mastermind. Designed to make geography simple for children, the Carmen Sandiego Series has four major entries
Where in the World
Where in the U.S.A.
Where in Europe
Where in Time
While Broderbund released these computer kids’ games between 1985 and1989, the deluxe versions of Where in the World and Where in the U.S.A. came along in 1992 and 1993.
ESRB rating: Everyone
4. Kindercomp
Released in 1983 by Spinnaker Software Corporation, Kindercomp consists of six mini-games. Kindercomp is not only a source of entertainment but also teaches young children to use the keyboard with the help of various interesting activities such as drawing pictures and matching the pairs.
ESRB rating: Everyone
5. Mario Teaches Typing
A gaming sensation in the 1990s, Mario Teaches Typing, teaches children how to type in a fun manner. Whenever the player presses the right key, the pixelated Mario moves forward, hits blocks, jumps on Koopa Troopas, and more.
ESRB rating: Everyone
6. Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing
The Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing game was the second most famous typing game of the 1990s after Mario Teaches Typing. This game has remained in production ever since. In fact, it is available for free download on the Internet. You will be surprised to know that children thought Mavis Beacon, the face of this child computer game, was a real person.
ESRB rating: Everyone
7. Reader Rabbit
The educational series Reader Rabbit has remained consistent and effective at teaching children to read and write since its launch in 1984. In the 90s, this series enjoyed the pinnacle of success. Around six to seven titles were released every year during that decade. The series involves point-and-click adventure games where the reader must solve a range of reading-based puzzles to move ahead. The best part is that this series is still available to play online.
ESRB rating: Everyone
8. Super Mario Kart
Introduced in 1992 by Nintendo, Super Mario Kraft is a true joy for video game lovers. In fact, this 90s computer game is still one of the best-selling video games in the world. Mario’s colorful world of go-karting wheels was lapped up by the 90s kids and gamers in no time. The fun part is, no matter how cautiously you play, you will find it challenging to save Mario from slipping on a banana peel seconds before the finish line.
ESRB rating: Everyone
9. Pokémon Red/Blue
In 1997, Nintendo brought about a revolution in the gaming industry by launching one of the best computer games for kids with a unique concept. Equally popular among children and adults worldwide, Pokemon Red/Blue game is about collecting creatures called Pokemon and role-playing. Pokémon requires children to learn tables of strengths, weaknesses, and move types, which along with their collection of critters can help them in their adventure.
ESRB rating: Everyone
10. Super Mario 64 by Nintendo
Mario has many firsts to its credit. It ruled the early 90s by presenting the technicolor 2D platforming on the SNES, and then in 1997, it revolutionized the gaming industry again with Super Mario 64 in 3D. For the players, it is a whole new experience to see Mario running and leaping in three dimensions. The game follows Mario, the player, who has to collect Power Stars from different worlds inside magical paintings to outwit the villain Bowser and rescue Princess Peach. After Super Mario 64, the computer games market has been flooded with 3D games for children, but Super Mario 64 continues to rule the hearts of young gamers.
ESRB rating: Everyone
Online Computer Games For Kids
If your child is hooked to the internet, you may have heard of some of these games. These online computer games offer endless entertainment while teaching tweens and teens to strategize and solve problems.
11. Minecraft
Those who love playing online computer games may have played Minecraft at least once or have watched it streaming on Twitch or Mixer. While this computer game is immensely popular amongst the junior gamers, teachers also love playing Minecraft as it sharpens problem-solving skills and teaches construction. You could play this game offline too; however, it is a lot more fun when you play online as you get to share your creations and compete with other players.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
Did you know?12. Star Wars Battlefront II
Star Wars Battlefront II is a treat for the Star Wars movie fans and gamers. As the name suggests, this computer game for older kids is based on all three eras of Star Wars movies. It uses the characters and locations of the masterpiece. From graphics to sound, Star Wars Battlefront II has been designed to serve excellence. Tame offers a variety of fun online modes to play, with Galactic Assault and Heroes Versus Villains being the most popular ones.
ESRB rating: Teen
13. Splatoon 2
Splatoon 2 has been intelligently designed on the lines of Duty and Battlefield by keeping young gamers in mind. A colorful and subtle imitation of Duty and Battlefield, this child computer game includes role-plays of inkling and child-like characters who can transform into colorful squids to compete in online matches. The maximum limit of players for this game is nine. The players can voice chat with each other while playing Splatoon 2 with the Nintendo Switch smartphone app.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
14. Fortnite
Fortnite is loved by gamers for many good reasons. It allows a gamer to connect with 99 players. Dressed in wild outfits, the players need to defeat members of the opposite team to win the matches. The game comes with a default voice chat function. However, there is an option to disable chats in the settings.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+/Teen
15. Terraria
Terraria is one of the most unique games for older kids. It gives the junior players the pleasure of not only crafting the materials but also fighting the monsters as they navigate the 2D levels. In the online mode, the players can compete with up to seven other players. The players use consoles’ built-in voice chat solutions to communicate with other fellow players.
ESRB rating: Teen
Fun Computer Games For Kids
Computer games are meant to be fun for kids, helping them relax and enjoy themselves. These entertaining games are meant to do just that while allowing kids to create their own communities and make new friends.
16. Rocket League
Unlike other online computer games for kids, Rocket League comes with a fresh concept of soccer and racing. Just like soccer, the players need to hit the ball straight into the goal post. However, the twist is that they need to do this with their vehicles. This game comes with a player limit of eight. The customization option allows players to personalize their vehicles.
ESRB rating: Everyone
17. Super Bomberman R
Super Bomberman is a popular and free online computer game available on modern consoles as well. Just like many other computer games, Super Bomberman R comes with the option of a solo player as well as local multiplayers. When offline, the gamers can compete with four other gamers, while the online matches consist of eight players. The players have to place the bombs strategically and defeat their opponent.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
18. Nancy Drew Interactive Mysteries
This game is an all-time favorite of children who are interested in solving mysteries just like the famous literary detective Nancy Drew! The players explore the haunted castles, frightening caves, and other horrid settings as they dig out the truth by using logical skills and memory. It consists of puzzles and riddles related to the case, which makes it one of the most exciting memory games for kids, especially those aged 10 years and up.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
19. LEGO Creator Islands
With LEGO Creator Islands young builders, enjoy building the digital versions of animals, buildings, and vehicles on five exotic islands with a variety of bricks and accessories. LEGO Creator Islands has been thoughtfully designed to teach children about the real world in a fun way. The players get to unlock lots of other cool features with each build.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+/Teen
20. Fast Menu
In this fun and addictive free online computer game for kids, the players get to serve the demanding and hungry customers at a fast pace. More like a restaurant game, Fast Food Panic challenges players to manage their time while operating a fast food place, greeting customers, preparing dishes, keeping the restaurant clean, and making deliveries. This strategy game tests the observation skills of the player and their power to perform under pressure.
ESRB rating: Everyone
Educational Computer Games For Kids
Kids do not play games with learning in mind, but when educational and problem-solving lessons are built into insanely entertaining computer games, kids are bound to benefit from them. These games are perfect for such edu-tainment.
21. Poptropica
This educational computer game for kids has players solving problems in different game scenarios. This online adventure game involves exploring a virtual world with 58 different islands while working through obstacles, collecting and using items, talking to characters, and completing goals. The game is created primarily under the direction of Jeff Kinney, the author of the famous Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.
ESRB rating: Everyone
22. Kerbal Space Program 2
The Kerbal Space Program series gives children a chance to explore the universe and teaches them about rocket science! With fresh graphics, new puzzles, and challenges, Kerbal Space Program 2 stimulates the imagination of young minds.
ESRB rating: Everyone
23. Civilization
The motto of this free online computer game for kids is simple: “Build an empire to stand the tests of time.” The players try various strategies to explore, expand, and sustain their kingdom. This game is loosely based on history and spans eons, beginning from 4,000 BC.
ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
24. SimCity
With this sandbox strategy game, children learn about planning, buildings, community operations, and some other simple topics related to engineering. SimCity introduces children to the concept of architecture and allows them to give a personal touch to the digital city that they build online. From light signals to traffic jams and from preventing crimes in the city to planning valleys for their city, the children can do it all in the SimCity. Playing this game could be one of the most educational activities for kids.
ESRB rating: Everyone/Everyone 10+
Trivia25. Bingo
Specially crafted to teach Common Core State Standards for math to K-4 students, Pet Bingo has been the Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner and is a regular in school computer libraries. This free online computer game for children has several difficulty levels of solving math problems such as addition, subtraction, measurements, and geometry. As children progress in the game and cross the difficulty levels, they’re awarded Pet rewards to use in the Pet Store. Moreover, the game also provides a report card that helps the parents check the progress of their ward to set up new learning goals.
ESRB rating: Everyone
26. Roblox
Roblox is a gaming platform and game creation system launched in 2006. Primarily catering to children and teenagers, it allows users to play and develop games within its virtual universe. Roblox provides user-generated content covering a broad spectrum of genres, from adventures to simulations. Users utilize the programming language Lua to develop games and showcase their skills. The platform incorporates a virtual currency, Robux, for in-game transactions, enabling players to customize avatars and purchase virtual goodies. Beyond gaming, Roblox has a vibrant virtual community that promotes social interaction. Its user-generated content and social engagement platform have propelled Roblox to widespread success among gamers of diverse age groups.
Father of two, James Guttman, shares his experience of playing the game with his daughter, Olivia. He writes, “Olivia loves it. She plays it whenever she’s given time on the iPad and will sometimes multitask by having her friends on speaker phone while they both take part in some sort of Roblox adventure… So I joined Roblox. Olivia was over the moon as she helped me design my cool blue guy. I learned about all the mini-games and how to customize the entire experience. She took me to Meep City and helped set up my house. I was surprised at how excited she was to have me join her digital world… Rather than just standing in the game and collecting money, though, I ended up doing a lot. From fighting other block people with swords to taking typing tests, there seemed to be so much to do in Roblox. It’s truly a vast experience… Yeah, so, honestly… I still don’t love it. But my kid does and that’s what’s important. She not only loves playing it, but loves the fact that I play it with her (i).”
ESRB rating: Teen
Tips For Parents
Consider the following tips to ensure a positive gaming experience for your children:
- Set clear time limits for gameplay.
- Choose games that match the child’s maturity level.
- Promote games that involve teamwork or cooperative play.
- Engage with your child by playing together.
- Encourage breaks to promote physical activity.
- Monitor the content and themes of the games they play.
- Prevent them from gaining access to paid games.
- Educate about online safety, cyberbullying, and privacy settings.
- Encourage hobbies outside gaming, such as sports, reading, or arts.
- Create a designated and comfortable gaming area.
- Discuss the themes and messages in the games they play.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can parents or teachers choose computer games that are age-appropriate and safe for children?
Parents and teachers should consider the game’s content, rating, and any potential red flags when selecting age-appropriate and safe computer games for children. Before letting children play a game, do some research, read reviews, and keep an eye on your child’s activity and usage when they play.
2. How can computer games support learning and reinforce academic concepts?
Computer games that are educational and focus on topics such as math, science, language, and arts can be used to support learning and reinforce academic concepts. Choosing these technology-oriented games or brain games for kids can give them an engaging and fun experience while also assisting in the development of their knowledge and abilities.
3. What are some tips for setting screen time limits and balancing computer games with other activities for children?
It is important for parents to communicate the expectations and rules around screen time and encourage children to take breaks and engage in a variety of activities throughout the day. You can include outdoor play, social interactions, and crafts in their daily routine or set parental control to limit their screen time.
4. How can computer games foster creativity and encourage children to explore new ideas or interests?
The use of computer games that involve building and creating, such as the Minecraft game for kids, can help children develop their creativity and discover new hobbies. It can help children use their creativity and imagination while also helping them develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
A blogger and a former IT professional, Charles took his first computer course when he was six. Sharing how computer games influenced his career choice, he says, “After going to the first few classes of the computer course, I was totally sold. Because I was so amazed at what a computer can do, and more importantly, I was inspired by what I can make the computer do… All I was thinking about was: The computer was fun because I could play games and create my own games on it (ii).”
5. Can computer games help children develop specific skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, or coding?
Yes, challenging computer puzzles and trivia games can help children improve their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Various coding games for beginners and amateurs can help children learn coding concepts in a fun and interactive way.
These readily available, accessible, and “edutaining” computer games for kids could help keep them engaged while learning some new concepts and exciting topics.These can also be included as games to play at school on a computer. Some of these games are classic and have been loved for decades. So, instead of having your kids glued to mobiles all day, you may try these games to promote constructive screen time. The icing on the cake is parents can monitor and pre-set the screen time for their children. You could also make changes in the settings, track their progress and choose the games you feel are most appropriate for your children.
Infographic: Computer Games For Kids
The children of this generation are always hooked to their phones or computers. So, why not make playing informative and beneficial for them while they have fun? If you are on board with that idea, read on to find a list of PC games that can engage your child and enlighten them about interesting things. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Best Online Computer Games For Kids
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Check out this video for the best PC games for kids to play right now! We’ll show you the top titles that are sure to keep your kids entertained. If your child loves gaming, look out for these games!
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. She’s The Reason I Play Roblox;https://hiblogimdad.com/2018/03/14/shes-the-reason-i-play-roblox/
ii. How video games can help kids choose future careers;
https://csl-supernova.medium.com/how-video-games-can-help-kids-choose-future-careers-2674d39980b9
References
- Are There Benefits of Video Games for Kids?
https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/are-there-benefits-of-video-games-for-kids - Video games can have a positive impact on children – if they are designed right, says new study.
https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/press-releases/video-games-can-have-positive-impact-children-if-they-are-designed-right-says-new
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