Board games are one of my favorite hobbies. I tend to get together with friends and play for hours on end. At home, I have an extensive library of which I am very proud of. It is great to be able to choose whatever kind of adventure we want to experience each session. But lately, as my children have been getting older, they want to join in. Sometimes, most of the time, the games I play with my friends are a tad complicated for young children, or maybe they have small pieces. I have made this list by researching the best board games for 8-year-olds so that I know what to buy for my own family. I tried to avoid tried and true games like Monopoly or Life because I think those are pretty obvious choices. I hope you find the perfect fit for your own household!
Table of Contents
Spontuneous
This game is designed for parties and family game nights alike. The basic idea is that one player says a word and the rest of the players need to race to sing a song that contains that word. The minimum is 5 words plus the trigger word, so a point will not be awarded if a player only sings the same phrase over and over. It can help develop memory skills and also music ability.
Pros: Everyone can play with each other, even across age differences, and learn about the rest of the player’s music tastes. It is also not confined to family gaming, as it could potentially be turned into a drinking game and is very fun to play with friends.
Cons: If people are shy and do not like singing or music then it will not be a hit. Make sure that you are playing with people that are up to the challenge! Also, players should be open to listening to new songs and genres, accepting the other player’s tastes. Leave judgment at the door!
Check more reviews here.
Scotland Yard
In this game, you play as famous detectives who are trying to catch criminal mastermind, Mister X. He has escaped Scotland Yard and now it is your job to put him behind bars once more. This is an easy to learn game that basis itself on London public transportation and detective work. It is perfect if you live in London or if you are planning a trip there. I also found it great because my daughter is obsessed with Sherlock Holmes at the moment.
Pros: Great way to foster the development of detective and problem-solving skills. It is a challenging game and everyone will have their bit of fun!
Cons: If you do not like the London theme, then you should look at other options.
Check more reviews here.
Beat The Parents
As its name suggests, this game confronts kids and parents to see who knows more trivia. It includes some challenges as well. The idea is that parents will answer trivia about kid’s stuff and kids will answer questions that their parents should know. It is a fun game that will certainly make your family have fun together and bond.
Pros: Great as a staple for family board game nights. You could even set a week champion that has bragging rights until they are dethroned.
Cons: Only good if you like trivia-style games. If the kids are not into answering questions or find that too frustrating, then you could check other options first.
Check more reviews here.
Watch Ya’ Mouth
This is an award-winning family card game great to use on your family board game nights as it is funny and light-hearted. It was featured on Good Morning America, so you may already know about it. You can play with 3 to 10 players, so every member of the family is welcome, even grandparents! While using a mouthpiece, the rest of the players need to guess what the other is saying. This is difficult and definitely hilarious!
Pros: This game is versatile. You can purchase a NSFW expansion that will let you enjoy it with your friends as well as your children.
Cons: Some people may not find the mouthpiece very comfortable and may wish to avoid it. Without it, the game is pointless, so you should look elsewhere.
Check more reviews here.
Mouse Trap Board Game
This is a more classical style board game where players need to catch the mice before they scurry off the board. It is great for children as it includes several pieces (traps) that the players need to assemble, so it is very exciting. The pieces are great quality and some parents may remember the classic version of the game, which makes it nostalgic.
Pros: Great for all members of the family and great fun.
Cons: There are small pieces to be assembled, and that can be a hassle if you do not enjoy that sort of thing.
Check more reviews here.
Googly Eyes
This game is a Pictionary style game where players need to draw while using special goggles that alter their vision. It is very simple and fast but ensures lots of fun and laughter. We found that this type of game is great even to play every day after dinner, as it requires minimal setup and a few sheets of paper. It is also great to take traveling, as you can forgo the box and just take the goggles and drawing supplies to play a minimal version.
Pros: Very fun and easy game.
Cons: None! We love this one!
Check more reviews here.
Charades For Kids
If your kids are restless, a great way to keep them entertained is charades. This game takes the classic concept and adapts it for kids and families by providing simple phrases or pictures so that everyone can understand and play without extra help. We absolutely loved it!
Pros: Great way to spend a family game night.
Cons: It is not a must-have if you feel like you can make your own cards.
Check more reviews here.
Have you tried any of these? Tell us in the comments below what your family’s thoughts were!