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Being stuck in a car for long periods is hard on children. We have a selection of fun games here to help relieve the boredom and, if you are very lucky, lessen the cries of 'are we nearly there yet!'.
This game has almost infinite variations and is suitable for all ages of kids, helping to keep them happy on a long car journey. You will find a printable available to Activity Village Members below, but you just need a paper and pencil to play.
This game needs a little preparation before you leave as you need to make a list of 20 things you are likely to see on the journey. If you don't know the journey route well, have a look at an online map for ideas.
Age: 5+
This game is a good one to play on motorways when there are lots of other cars around you. You can make it as easy or hard as you like, ensuring that it is fun for all members of the family.
Age: 3+
This is possibly the simplest car game ever and one we have probably all played at one time or another. The simple rules make this a game that even very young children can take part in.
Age: 3+
This is a simple guessing game for which you just need two kids! Great for passing the odd waiting moment or car journey.
Age: Any
I Packed My Suitcase is a classic memory game which is useful for all sorts of occasions, from a doctor's waiting room to a long car journey! You can adapt it to all ages of kids, and adults enjoy playing as much as children.
This game works well both as a competition or as a shared project when you can work together to compete against the clock.
Age: 4+
Begin by trying to spot a red car.
Sometimes when you are stuck in a car the last thing that you want are competitive games and the risk of arguments. This is a fun story telling game that all of the family can enjoy.
Age: 5+
I Went On Holiday is a popular memory game which is perfect for keeping kids amused when they are confined to a table, car or waiting room! You need at least some geographical knowledge so it is best played with older kids.
You don't need dice to play beetle in the car with this fun adaption of the traditional game, just a pencil each and blank paper or our printable. This game is a real test of observation.
Age : 5+
This game is good for keeping up spirits when you are stuck in traffic. All you need is a little imagination and some cars around you.
Age: 8+
You will need pencil and paper for this game. It is an easy one to adapt to different age ranges - just be careful to choose words that don't contain letters that are not on your country's number plates. UK number plates do not often include the letters I, Q or Z, for example.
This is a lovely game for a group of children or a family gathering. Play it as an ice-breaker, around the dinner table, on car journeys, as an after-tea party game... in fact, play it anywhere!
This traditional Chinese game can be played by 2 players or quite a large group. It develops quick thinking, addition and logic skills - but it's also fun!
Here's a fun collaborative adaption of one of my favourite activities, people watching. It's a good way to keep everyone entertained in traffic.
Age: 4+
