Sometimes in these days of computers, video consoles,
electronic robots and other expensive toys we forget that a simple pack
of cards (or two) can provide hours of fun.
Cards are inexpensive, easily portable and endlessly
adaptable. Families can enjoy a game together, kids can play in groups
on their own, and a solitary child can while away the hours playing
"solitaire" games or building card houses. We have many suggestions
below.
Go Fish
A game of chance and skill for two or more players.
MemoryNEW!
This is a classic game which can be played with a normal pack of cards
or any number of specially adapted cards, or even objects. Great fun and
great for developing concentration and memory skills.
Menagerie
Also called Animals, this is a wild and noisy game which can be adapted
for all age groups and is sure to be a firm favorite!
NEW!
My Ship Sails
This is an easy card game which is best and most exciting when played at
high speed.
Old Maid A popular
and easy game for three or more children.
Pig
A firm family favourite, this game always gets all age groups giggling!
Rolling Stone
This game can be a lot of fun but also very frustrating: just when you
are about to win, you can find yourself right back at square one!
Sequence This game
is easy to learn, making a good starter game, but nevertheless requires
concentration and patience.
Sevens
Also known as Card Dominoes, Parliament or Fan Tan, this is an exiting
game which is simple for children to learn quickly.
Slapjack
This is an easy game - suitable for very young children - but it can get
wild!
Snap
Snap is popular, noisy and liable to go on forever! A fast game for the
whole family, requiring quick reflexes and sharp observation.
Snip Snap Snorem
This is a popular - and noisy - card matching game, suitable for younger
children and mixed age groups.
Stealing Bundles Also known as Stealing The Old Man's Bundle, this unpredictable
game is very popular with kids, who love being able to steal each
other's cards!
War This is
an easy introduction to card playing without too many rules to
complicate the game.
Make Up Your Own Games!
When I was young, my little brother and I could spend all afternoon
making up our own card games - our favourite, which we played many
times, involved building a complicated track using the cards then
playing on it with dice, plastic chips and toy cars. Perhaps you could
give the children some supplies and see what they can come up with!
Japanese otedama These fabric beanbags used to be sewn by grandmothers from silk kimono
scraps, and are used for juggling games and skill games similar to jacks
and knucklebones. An easy sewing project which makes a lovely game or
gift idea.
If your children like making up their own games, you might find
our new printable "money", counters, tickets etc useful. Printable game supplies
Counting Jars Game
Children can make this game for a younger sibling, to help them learn to count -
they'll have fun assembling the containers and objects.
Call My Bluff
This is a fun word game (made famous by the TV show) which can
help children to learn new words, practise dictionary work and presentation
skills! It works best in a classroom or large group setting, and you will need
time to prepare.
Make A Name Book
More of a craft activity than a game, this is a great way for kids to get to
know each other at the beginning of the school year.
Matching Game cards can be used to play Memory
(Concentration), Go Fish and many other card games, as well as played with
our sorting mats by one child on their own. Printable Games
