Best Board Games For 5 Year Olds
Are you on the hunt for the perfect board game for your fabulous five-year-old?
In this blog post, I am sharing the best board games for five-year-olds!
We love to play games as a family.
Not only does it give us an activity that doesn’t involve all of us being glued to a screen, but it can also help your five-year-old learn some essential skills.
In this blog post is a treasure trove of games that promise to light up your kiddo’s eyes and keep those little hands busy.
From cooperative board games that foster teamwork to classic games that sharpen those early academic skills, this list has something for every little gamer.
But this isn’t just about the games. It’s about carving out those special moments with your child—because, let’s face it, they’re only five once.
We’ll guide you through finding the best games, making time to play them, and even scoring deals so your bank account won’t feel the pinch.
So grab a comfy seat and maybe a cup of your favorite beverage— and let’s dive into the playful world of board games for five-year-olds, where fun meets learning, bonding, and a whole lot of giggles!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no cost to you. Please read the disclosure for more information.
What’s covered in this blog post?
- The benefits of games for five-year-olds
- 16 best board games for five-year-olds
- How to make time for games with your five-year-old
- How to find games that won’t break the bank
- Other types of games that are great for five-year-olds.
The benefits of games for five-year-olds.
Playing board games is more than just fun for five-year-olds—it’s a crucial part of their development!
And trust me, there is no shortage of development opportunities when you make playing board games a priority with your little one!
The more games we played, the bigger difference I saw in my kid’s reading skills, problem-solving abilities, social skills, and so much more.
While I pride myself on making as many aspects of life a teachable moment, there are definitely things that board games taught that would have been more challenging to replicate in real life scenarios.
Plus, board games are a great source of entertainment, which is a nice added bonus!
Let’s break down the nuances of these benefits for your five-year-old.
1. Social Skills Development
Let’s face it – there is almost no more critical time than now to start working on social skills development with your five-year-old if you haven’t already!
Whether they will be going to school shortly or if you plan to homeschool them and join some community events or homeschooling co-ops, your little ones need to know how to interact, communicate, share, etc.
Board games are a fantastic way for children to practice playing, cooperating, taking turns, communicating, etc.
If your kid is shy like mine was, they also offer a great way to bring kids out of their shells a little bit!
Oh, and let’s not forget about the importance of handling both winning and losing gracefully.
These games often require players to interact in a structured way, which is perfect for teaching the fundamentals of social etiquette and empathy.
2. Boosts Cognitive Skills
Our five-year-olds are busy learning how to count, practicing their memory skills, and so much more.
Games can help with cognitive skill development, easy-peasy!
Whether it’s solving a puzzle, counting spaces, using their memory, or strategizing their next move, kids are given the chance to challenge their brains in a fun and stimulating environment, all with the help of a board game!
And as much as I enjoy doing other cognitive skill development activities with my young ones, they definitely prefer the fun of learning through games!
3. Enhances Fine Motor Skills
Many board games in this list require careful manipulation and movement of the pieces.
What does that equal?
Development of their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, of course!
These games give their little hands a chance to learn how to handle and maneuver small objects with precision.
4. Teaches Problem-Solving
Have you ever watched a kid figure out the best way to win a game?
It’s like watching a little strategist at work!
Some of the games I’ve included in this list are real brain-teasers!
Planning moves ahead of time, and adapting strategies as the game unfolds teaches them problem-solving in the most enjoyable way possible.
It’s pretty cool seeing their little minds whirl and twirl around game tactics!
Plus, you can really see your little one’s personality type start to shine through as they approach problem-solving in their own way!
5. Encourages Language Development
Here’s the scoop: when kids play word games like Scrabble Junior, they’re not just playing—they’re learning to communicate one letter and one word at a time.
It’s incredible to see their vocabulary explode from “cat” and “dog” to “volcano” and “quicksand”!
Board games turn them into little chatterboxes, all while boosting their language skills in the sneakiest way.
I remember when my five-year-old started saying new words, and at first, I wondered where they were learning these complex words!
Then I realized it was from playing board games!
6. Promotes Emotional Resilience
Okay, so games can be a wild ride of emotions—thrilled one minute, bummed the next.
But honestly, that’s kind of what’s so magical about them.
They teach our kids to handle those ups and downs.
Whether they’re losing their third game in a row or triumphing like little champs, they’re learning resilience and patience.
And honestly, isn’t that a life skill we all could use more of?
7. Strengthens Family Bonds
Lastly, is there anything better than a game night with the family?
Pulling out a board game after dinner is our secret to laughter, conversation, and just being together.
It’s not just about the game; it’s about creating those memories that stick way past bedtime.
So next time you’re playing Monopoly Junior and bartering with your little one, remember, it’s these moments that make family game night a heartwarming tradition.
By incorporating board games into your five-year-old’s routine, you’re not just keeping them occupied—you’re supporting their development in multiple, essential ways.
So next time you see them strategizing over Stone Soup or giggling through a game of The Floor Is Lava, know that it’s more than play; it’s a foundation for lifelong skills.
16 board games for five-year-olds
1) Hoot Owl Hoot
If you read my blog post, the best board games for 3-year-olds, you’ll have seen quite a few games from the creator, Peaceable Kingdom.
These game creators have become very popular in recent years, and for good reason!
They are filled with fun colors and adorable illustrations and have easy and entertaining gameplay.
Plus, they are the best games for teaching things like teamwork, cooperation, etc.
But, the games I shared in that blog post may not be challenging enough for five-year-olds.
Thankfully, they’ve created some great options for older kids, starting with Hoot Owl Hoot.
Not only do we play Hoot Owl Hoot often, but I also gift this board game regularly at 3 to 5 year old birthday parties. On a side note, we’ve gotten this board game as a gift multiple times (thankfully with gift receipts because who needs multiple copies of the same game, right).
It’s a cooperative game where players work together to help the owls fly back to their nest before the sun rises.
It’s a race against time, and no owl gets left behind!
This game is perfect for your family game nights since you can play with up to four players, but it’s also perfect for play dates with friends.
As an added bonus, there are two levels of the gameplay, so your child won’t immediately get bored with it.
Plus, isn’t it a hoot seeing your child strategize like a little boss?
2) The Fairy Game
Next up from the Peaceable Kingdom is the Fairy Game, a magical garden where cooperation blooms!
In The Fairy Game, players team up to help the fairies gather their magical flowers before Mr. Winter freezes them out.
It’s all about strategy and shared victories, making it an excellent choice for developing emotional intelligence, patience, and teamwork.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to spend an afternoon in a world filled with fairies and spells?
It might just spark a magical adventure in your backyard!
3) Mermaid Island
If your kid loves mermaids, this game is sure to be a hit!
Mermaid Island is another great game from Peaceable Kingdom, although it’s definitely one of the more challenging games which is why it’s perfect for your five-year-old.
The objective is simple – dive into a splashy adventure with Mermaid Island, a cooperative game that invites your kids to help mermaids swim to safety before the sea witch catches them.
This game is a fantastic way to introduce concepts of risk and planning as they decide which path to take while navigating tricky currents.
Plus, it’s a great excuse for kids (and maybe adults, too) to talk in their best mermaid voices.
This game can be played with up to 6 people, perfect for family game nights, birthday parties, etc.
4) Stone Soup Board Game
Gather ’round the kitchen, folks! Stone Soup is the culinary-themed board game that turns your kiddos into little chefs with a knack for sharing.
My five-year-old loved cooking at that age, which made this game an instant hit in our household!
There was just something magical for them about mixing all the ingredients.
The concept is simple enough – find the matching ingredients to cook up a delicious soup.
But it’s not just about making food; it’s about creating a recipe for cooperation and memory-building.
And it’s far from simple!
In fact, this is one of the most challenging co-op games, in my opinion.
It is great for teaching your kids how to lose and learn from their missteps so that they can win the next time around!
5) Perfection Game
Switching gears from the Peaceable Kingdom games, the next game is all about speed and shapes.
Plus, it’s a true classic from our own childhoods.
Growing up, I always played this one on my own, and it is a great solo game.
But it’s nice that Hasbro has released this dual-mode version so you can play against someone.
This game is perfect for teaching kids the art of quick thinking and fine motor coordination.
Plus, there’s nothing like a fun adrenaline rush for five-year-olds!
It’s also a great way to introduce a little healthy pressure in a super fun and safe environment.
6) Alphabet Go Fish
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a complete sucker for games that have an element of learning in them.
And I know you could argue that every game has a teaching element to it, and I would tend to agree.
But I am talking about the games that teach fundamental skills like counting, spelling, etc., and this game fits the bill!
It’s a spin on the classic game of Go Fish, focusing on letter recognition.
Each card has an illustration that matches the word on the card, which can help your five-year-old with reading skills.
As your kid grows, you can even reuse these cards to start spelling words.
7) Sequence Letters
Sequence was a game I was introduced to a couple of years ago, and I loved it!
So when I saw they had a version for kids, I was immediately intrigued.
And like the game I shared above, this game is also a great opportunity to infuse learning into game time with your kids.
The concept is simple.
All you have to do is create a sequence on the game board by matching the letter card in your hand to an illustration on the board that starts with the same letter.
So, this is good for letter recognition and spelling.
Plus, there is strategy mixed in there, too, so it’s a win-win!
This one was a massive hit with my kids.
8) Sequence For Kids
In that first game of sequence, your child will need to know what letters look and sound like, and how to pair that up with the illustrations on the board.
If that’s too challenging for your five-year-old right now, you might consider this other Sequence version, which includes the illustration on the card so they know what to look for on the game board.
And don’t worry – you can still use this to teach the letters and sounds.
I would read the word on the card as they played it to turn the game into teachable moments.
9) KerPlunk
This game doesn’t teach anything like counting or spelling, but the fun is undeniable!
I used to play this game as a kid, so I was so excited to play this with my five-year-old.
The concept is simple – you start by placing the sticks into the pre-drilled holes in the tube, and then lay the marbles on top.
As you remove sticks, you want to avoid the marbles falling, and for each marble you drop, you have a point against you.
To win, you want to drop the least amount of marbles.
This game is ideal for teaching strategy with the added pressure of not wanting to drop the marbles.
10) Monopoly Junior
Speaking of games that are a blast from the past, I’ve got another one here, albeit with a twist!
Monopoly has become renowned for creating so many twists on the classic board game we all know and love from our younger years.
Well, versions made for our young ones are no exception!
And they’ve got several versions with different themes, including:
- Monopoly Junior Dinosaur Edition
- Monopoly Junior Bluey
- Monopoly Junior Super Mario
- Monopoly Junior Peppa Pig
- Monopoly Junior Unicorn Edition
- Monopoly Junior Spidey Amazing Friends
- Monopoly Junior Trucks
- Monopoly Frozen
This game is a terrific way to introduce basic economics through a world of ancient creatures.
And to say it is kid-friendly would be an understatement!
11) Don’t Rock The Boat
If you’re looking for a game that helps to develop hand-eye coordination, this is a great option!
The concept is simple – take turns adding your penguins to the boat without letting it tip over.
This one is enjoyable for family game nights.
Not only is it hilarious, but it’s also fun for every age!
And this is a resounding agreement amongst all my friends as well.
While some games are not always fun for us adults, this one is definitely an exception!
12) Crocodile Dentist
My five-year-old loves games with an adrenaline rush, which is why they love this one!
You each take turns pushing down a tooth while being careful to avoid the sore tooth.
The catch – no one knows which tooth is the sore one, so you never know when the mouth will chomp down.
Bonus for us busy moms – this is an easy game for kids to play without adult supervision, so you can set it up for them to play while you get other stuff done!
13) The Floor Is Lava
Jump off the couch—it’s lava time!
The Floor Is Lava turns your living room into a volcanic adventure.
Players must hop on the corresponding colored “rock”, aka a piece of foam based on the color you get on the spinner.
It’s simple, requires physical activity and quick thinking, making it perfect for burning off extra energy on a rainy day or tiring everyone out at a play date.
Plus, it’s a blast watching everyone leap and laugh, proving that sometimes, the floor really can be lava.
14) Scrabble Junior
Here is a twist on the classic game Scrabble Junior for kids.
When Hasbro created this version, they had two players in mind: the beginner who focuses on letter matching and the more advanced player who can make words with their tiles, similar to the classic version.
What I liked about this game was that it can grow with your kid.
Plus, it balances learning and fun!
The game will help with letter recognition, spelling, and even reading.
15) Ticket to Ride First Journey
You might have heard of the Ticket to Ride board game for adults, which has many different spin-off versions.
This is one of those versions, which is specifically created for kids. It’s for 6+, but my daughter started playing it at 5 years old.
I like how it involves a good amount of strategy, making this kids’ version fun for adults as well.
There’s an educational component. In this board game, your 5 year old will learn the names of a few different major cities in Canada and the U.S.
16) Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
And last on this list of the best board games for five-year-olds is more of a card game.
I always put this game in the bag for when we travel because it’s light and portable.
This game is simple and fun for all ages! It’s a fast game for five year olds that are not as patient.
You’ll notice this game is so popular that there are many different versions, but this is the original.
How to make time for games with your five-year-old.
Finding time for board games might seem like a challenge when you’ve got a million other things to do, but it’s easier than you might think!
Here are my top tips!
Tip #1 – Be flexible
As much as I love a good schedule, I know it’s also important to be flexible!
There’s no point in forcing time to play a board game when it doesn’t make sense.
Instead, look for windows of opportunity in your day!
Here’s some sneaky ideas:
- During snack time. (A much better alternative to screen time!)
- Before bedtime.
- In between running errands. (Great for 15 minutes that you don’t have anything to do.)
- During bad weather when outdoor play isn’t an option.
- When battling a cold or flu, playtime needs to be more chill.
Tip #2 – Make a family game night
I do still recommend having at least one block of time every week set aside for playing games as a family.
For starters, this ensures everyone can be present, creating opportunities for family bonding.
Plus, if you don’t get any time to sneak a game in during the week, at least you know you’ve got one guaranteed time slot!
Maybe you do this every Sunday to end the week.
Or perhaps you do it on a Thursday when you plan to clean all the leftovers out of the fridge for dinner, so the time saved cooking can be spent playing games together as a family instead!
Feel free to get creative when you schedule this on your calendar.
Tip #3 – Bring games with you!
Hey, who says games can only be played at home?
Pack a small game if you’re heading to a restaurant or a long wait at the doctor’s office.
Turn those boring waits into game time!
Remember, it doesn’t need to be a marathon session.
Even 15 to 20 minutes of play can make a huge difference.
It’s about quality time, not the clock.
How to find games that won’t break the bank.
Okay, we have to talk about this before I wrap up this blog post!
Because, if you’ve read any of the other posts on my blog, you’d know I love talking about ways we can save money!
After all, we are young families with lots of expenses!
So, how can we purchase board games without breaking the bank?
Tip #1 – Check yard sales
You can find so many board games at yard sales.
And they’ll be so much cheaper than you’ll get them at a thrift store or Facebook Marketplace.
I’ve found games that typically cost $30+ for less than $5 at yard sales!
And even if a game is missing pieces, chances are good you’ve got pieces from other board games that you can use as makeshift pieces.
Tip #2 – Check your local thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace
If yard sales are out of season where you live, you could always check the thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace.
Unfortunately, you’ll pay a little bit more.
(At least, that’s always been my experience.)
However, it is still significantly cheaper than buying them brand new!
Tip #3 – Find game swap groups on Facebook (or create your own!)
If you live in an urban area, you might be lucky enough to find groups on Facebook where you can trade games and puzzles!
This is an awesome option, because rather than buying new games, you can trade the ones you’ve already got for new options.
Not only is this option completely free, but you also:
- can get rid of the games your five-year-old doesn’t like or is no longer interested in.
- see the games you’ve bought get reused by another family.
You might even meet another family to start playing board games with!
Tip #4 – Watch out for sales
Many stores have regular sales of board games!
So, while you might not get them for as cheap as you would if you bought them used, it will still save you plenty of money!
Tip #5 – Ask for birthday and Christmas presents
Finally, why not ask your friends and family to get board games instead of toys for an upcoming birthday or Christmas?
While every five-year-old loves toys, they usually already have plenty!
Board games are still fun, but they also encourage development, which is so vital at this age!
Plus, this has even encouraged other family members to play board games with my kid, which I love.
Other types of games that are great for five-year-olds.
Even though this blog post focused solely on board games, remember that not every fun and valuable game for five-year-olds comes in a box!
I mentioned a card game above. My 5 year old also likes Skipbo Junior and Uno Junior, which are not only fun but also super portable.
Then, there’s the timeless charm of puzzles.
Working on puzzles can be a quiet but profoundly satisfying activity for kids and parents alike.
My 5 year old loves princess puzzles.
This Lego minifigure puzzle is one of the coolest puzzles I’ve come across recently. It’s 1000 pieces so it’s fun for the whole family! My brother got it for his family of 4 including a 3 year old and 8 year old. I’m thinking about getting one for my family as well.
Don’t forget about outdoor games, either!
Tag, hide and seek, or hopscotch can keep them active and giggling.
And for the digitally savvy, there are educational apps that turn learning into a game.
These can be great for on-the-go entertainment or a quick play session at home.
My 5 year old will be entering French immersion school soon so we have her doing Duolingo. It’s been a great way for her to get familiar with French before she starts school.
Mixing up the type of games your child plays can keep them engaged and excited to learn new things!
If you’d like another blog post on this topic, be sure to leave me a comment below!
So, there you have it – a list of fun and developmental board games that your five-year-old will love.
Which one do you think you’ll play first?
Share in the comments below!
Related Articles on this Best Board Games For 5 Year Olds:
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- Money Books for Kids that Teach Financial Literacy
- How to Teach My Child About Money: Financial Education Tips for Children
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