π The 10 best card games for kids
One deck of cards is ten games. These are ranked from the youngest players up: start at the top with a four-year-old, end at the bottom with a ten-year-old. Each has its rules in plain words.
MemoryOurs
Cards face down, turn two, find pairs. Young children often beat grown-ups at this.
SnapOurs
Turn cards in turn; shout snap when two match. Loud and quick.
WarOurs
No choices, just which card is higher. Teaches number order without anyone noticing.
Go FishOurs
Ask for cards to make sets of four. The first card game many families teach.
Old MaidOurs
Pairs and one odd card nobody wants. Lots of giggling.
SlapjackOurs
Slap the jack first. Pure speed; keep hands gentle.
Crazy EightsOurs
Match the suit or the number; eights are wild. The first game with a real choice in it.
SpoonsOurs
Pass cards, make four of a kind, grab a spoon. Perfect for a big group.
GolfOurs
Lowest score wins. Memory and a bit of strategy, for ages eight and up.
RummyOurs
Sets and runs. The game many grown-ups grew up with, and a great one to pass on.
More game night lists
- The 10 best dice games for familiesTen dice games for family game night, from Pig and Beetle to Yacht and Shut the Box: what each needs, who it suits and how it plays. Most need only dice.
- 10 ideas for a better family game nightTen family game night ideas: a set night each week, a picker who rotates, house rules, a tournament bracket, theme nights, a scorebook and more. All free.