As your child enters school, their preferences become more distinct. Between ages 7 to 10, we faced the challenge of getting our kids interested in games – the catch being that they had to love the theme.
However, an appealing theme doesn’t automatically guarantee a fun or age-appropriate game for a seven-year-old.
To simplify your search, we’ve put together a list of the best games for elementary-aged kids. This compilation spans ten themes, featuring challenges perfectly suited for those under ten years old.
In this article, we explore a curated selection of engaging games perfectly suited for the dynamic interests and developmental stages of children aged 7 to 10. From thrilling zombie adventures to high-speed racing and magical Disney realms, these games promise not only hours of entertainment but also valuable opportunities for skill-building and imaginative play. Discover the perfect game to captivate your child’s interest and foster enjoyable moments of family bonding. Let the gaming adventures begin!
1. Zombie Adventures: Zombie Kidz Evolution
Ideal for kids engrossed in books like “The Last Kids on Earth” or playing video games such as “Plants vs. Zombies,” Zombie Kidz Evolution offers a thrilling experience. Up to four players work together to defend their school from zombie adults, adding stickers to the rulebook progress chart with each play. The game is suitable for kids aged 7, 10, and 12, and it’s devoid of any gory or gross elements.
2. Superhero Team-Up: 5 Minute Marvel
Imagine battling alongside superheroes like Spider-Man and Ms. Marvel in 5-Minute Marvel. In a fast-paced, cooperative game, players race against the clock to defeat supervillains. With no turns, everyone contributes to matching cards and using special abilities to conquer the game in under 5 minutes. For a slightly more complex superhero experience, consider Marvel United.
3. Adorable Culinary Delights: Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! appeals to kids who adore cute food illustrations. It’s a closed-drafting game where players pick and pass cute sushi cards, scoring sets at the end of each round. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider Abandon All Artichokes or Go Nuts for Donuts, each offering its unique twist on adorable gameplay.
4. Dragons and Fantasy: Tsuro
For kids fascinated by dragons, Tsuro strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. With beautiful illustrations and dragon pawns, players navigate paths, avoiding collisions and eliminations. A quick game lasting about 15 minutes, Tsuro ensures repeated requests for another round.
5. Monster Mayhem: King of Tokyo
In King of Tokyo, kids can indulge their love for wrestling and roughhousing by pretending to be giant kaiju monsters vying for control of Tokyo. Gain points, stay in control, and strategize by spending power cubes on power-ups. It’s a thrilling game for kids who enjoy the excitement of monster battles.
6. High-Speed Racing: Downforce
Perfect for young racing enthusiasts, Downforce offers a balance between simplicity and strategy. Bet on the race winner by playing cards strategically, and witness the excitement unfold. For a detailed review, check out our thoughts on Downforce.
7. Urban Planning: Happy City
For kids who enjoy building, Happy City provides a satisfying city-building experience. Balance income, population, and happiness as you construct your 10-card city in about 20 minutes.
8. Energetic Movement: IceCOOL
If your kid can’t sit still, IceCOOL is the solution. Flick penguins around the table, collect fish, and tag fellow students in this active game. For added fun, combine IceCOOL and IceCOOL 2 to accommodate up to eight players.
9. Disney Magic: Codenames Disney or Sorcerer’s Arena: Epic Alliances
Explore the magical world of Disney with Codenames: Disney Family Edition, a more forgiving version suitable for various age groups. Alternatively, immerse your child in Disney Sorcerer’s Arena: Epic Alliances, where they choose characters to fight in an arena, earning victory points.
10. Varied Themes: Similo
Similo, a cooperative game suitable for a range of ages, comes in various themes, from Greek mythology to Harry Potter. Find a theme your child loves and enjoy this engaging game that combines fun and learning.
