Home Blog Curriculum Planning and ResourcesTwo little magic words: "Game Day!"

Two little magic words: "Game Day!"

Written by Jody Davids on Saturday,July 02, 2011. Posted in Curriculum Planning and Resources

Some days just aren't made for bookwork. You know what I'm talking about—it's called burnout. Sometimes it'll sneak up on you; sometimes you feel it coming. Whenever we need a break from our regular routine, we call it a game day. There are tons of fun, educational board and dice games around, and since we have managed to collect quite a few of them over the years, I thought I'd share some of our favorites.

Educational Board Games

To keep things fair, my kids take turns picking out the games, although I try to make sure they cover the core subjects. Since they can be competitive with each other and are at different grade levels, we tend to modify the rules just a tad to keep it fun.

Spill and Spell Dice Game

Spelling: Spill and Spell

This game is perfect for spellers of all ages. The object of the game is to create words for points. Each player takes a turn spelling as many words as he or she can before the one minute timer is up. The more letters in the word, the more points you get. Since my kids are at different levels, I have them compete against themselves—trying to top their own scores—instead of each other. And when my daughter was younger, we even left out the timer and skipped keeping score all together.

Cooking Up Sentences

Grammar: Cooking Up Sentences!

The object of this game is to be the first chef to make a silly, grammatically correct, complete sentence. Players pick a "recipe" card and take turns moving around the board picking up "ingredient" tiles. The tiles are color coordinated, a different color the each of eight different parts of speech, so this game can be played by younger players with a little assistance.

Pizza Fraction Fun

Math: Pizza Fraction Fun

With seven games plus variations for younger players, there is a game for everyone. Identify, estimate, add and subtract, and manipulate equivalent fractions to make yummy, lifelike pizzas. Even my oldest likes this one!

1,000 Places to See Before You Die Game

Geography: 1,000 Places to See Before You Die

Our favorite game is On Assignment with National Geographic, but since this game isn't manufactured anymore, we're going to tell you about our 2nd favorite, 1,000 Places to See Before you Die. The object of the game is to be the first player to travel across the globe and back, visiting different destinations along the way. Children are introduced to fascinating places around the world when they read the corresponding postcards to the other players. Younger players will need help with this one.

The Way Things Work - A Game

Science: The Way Things Work

This is more than just a game, it's science in the making! Collect tools, answer questions, assemble simple machines, and even perform experiments. There are three levels of play, so it can be as challenging as you want to make it. Younger players can join in, too, but the questions might be a little tough.

So, if you find that you or your kids have hit burnout, all you need is a change of pace! Instead of turning on the computer or getting out those workbooks, break out some board games.

You can find more great educational games here!