Family games for children: choosing the right games for shared playtime

Finding the right family games for children often starts with colourful packaging, familiar characters and big promises. But parents and relatives have other questions in mind: Is the game really suitable for the child’s age? Is it quick to explain? Can you play it with just a few people? And is it suitable for playing at home or on the go?

Three common buying mistakes often lead to the wrong choice:

• Treating the age recommendation as a guide only: For board games for ages 6+ or 8+, it usually reflects the complexity of the rules, the size of the pieces and the level of attention needed.
• Assuming more features mean more fun: A complex game can quickly become confusing for younger children. A card game with just a few rules, on the other hand, is often a better fit for shorter sessions.
• Overlooking where the game will be played: Large family board games need space and a flat surface. Travel games for children should be compact, with pieces that can be stored securely.

Key things to consider before you buy

1. Match the age, number of players and playing time

The age recommendation on the product page or packaging is a useful starting point. A game for ages 6+ should suit the child’s language and motor skills. For older children aged 8+, games with more complex rules, tactical decisions and longer playing times are often an option.

Also consider:

• Number of players: Some games are designed for two people, while others only work well with a larger group.
• Playing time: Short rounds of around 15 minutes are ideal for everyday play, while longer board games are better suited to planned family evenings.
• Understanding the rules: When choosing strategy games for children, check that the instructions are easy to follow and that an adult can help them get started.

2. Check the materials, piece size and storage options

Children’s jigsaws and board games are usually made from cardboard, plastic, wood or paper. Rather than relying on vague claims about quality, look for specific details such as the number of pieces, dimensions, material and storage options.

When a game contains small pieces, be sure to follow the safety advice. Many products are not suitable for children under 3, as they may contain small parts that could be swallowed. Even when a game has a higher age recommendation, it’s a good idea to collect all the pieces after play and store them somewhere dry.

The number of pieces is a useful guide when choosing a children’s jigsaw:

• 100 XXL pieces: A manageable challenge for children aged 6+.
• 200 pieces: Often suitable for children aged 8+, depending on the picture and their jigsaw experience.
• Large pieces: Easier to pick up and sort, especially for younger children.

3. Choose a theme and style of play that suit your household

A Harry Potter game or Disney design can be a hit with fans. But the most important thing is whether the way the game is played suits your family. Card games for children are usually quick to set up and need very little space. A magnetic travel game, on the other hand, may be a better choice for train journeys or holidays.

For themed games, check the language of the instructions too. The products listed are available in German or include German-language information. For games involving mystery, crime or bluffing, it’s worth checking that the content is right for your child’s individual sensitivities.

Our picks for different types of player

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners

Ravensburger – Disney Multicharacter 100P XXL

Why this product suits this profile: This children’s jigsaw has 100 XXL pieces and is recommended for ages 6+, according to the product details. The Disney design makes it a lovely gift for a child or a relaxing activity to enjoy as part of family life.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of pieces and XXL format are clearly stated. This makes it easier to judge the difficulty than choosing a jigsaw based on the picture alone.

Key benefits and strengths

100 XXL pieces, a finished size of 49 × 36 cm according to the product description, suitable for playing alone or in a group.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for premium quality

Schmidt Spiele 56197 – Beautiful Fairy in the Enchanted Forest

Why this product suits this profile: This jigsaw has 200 pieces and is recommended for children aged 8+, according to the product details. The description mentions a linen-effect finish, a matt surface and a poster with guide lines.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The precise number of pieces, age recommendation and surface details help you judge the feel and difficulty when these aren’t otherwise clear.

Key benefits and strengths

200 pieces, a poster to use as a guide and a finished size of 27.5 × 19 cm according to the product details.

Ideal for: Specific uses and frequent play

Schmidt Spiele 49102 – 8 Magnetic Travel Games

Why this product suits this profile: This collection is designed for children aged 6+ and brings together eight classic games in a magnetic box. It’s ideal for trips, waiting times and games on the move.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The folding board and magnetic pieces help prevent the game from shifting around or pieces going missing while you’re out and about.

Key benefits and strengths

Eight games, magnetic components and compact dimensions of 18.5 × 11.5 × 7 cm.

Ideal for: Fans of quick card games

Monopoly Deal: Harry Potter Card Game

Why this product suits this profile: This German-language card game is designed for 2 to 5 players aged 8+ and takes around 15 minutes to play. It’s a good fit for quick games at home or on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of players, age recommendation and approximate playing time are all clearly stated. This makes it easier to fit the game into family life.

Key benefits and strengths

111 cards, for 2 to 5 players and a playing time of around 15 minutes; no batteries required.

More games to consider

For children aged 8+, options beyond classic board games include educational games for children, dice games and cooperative puzzle games. Examples from the selection include:

• Black Stories Junior: The editions “Really True!”, “On the Right Track” and “Nonsense & Co.” use yes-or-no questions and 50 riddle cards. They’re compact and suitable for groups.
• Qwirkle, HiLo or Tippi Toppi by Schmidt Spiele: According to the product details, these games use colours, numbers, sequences or shared challenges and are designed for children aged 8+.
• Kosmos EXIT: Two escape-room adventures in one box, for 2 to 4 players aged 8+.
• Guess Who: A game for two players aged 6+, with yes-or-no questions and a folding game board.
• Harry Potter games and Disney games: A good choice if your child enjoys a particular theme and the rules suit the playing time you’re looking for.

FAQs about family games for children

Which family games are suitable for children aged 6+?

Games with straightforward rules and simple turns are a good choice for children aged 6+. Options include a 100-piece XXL children’s jigsaw, Guess Who or a magnetic collection of classic travel games. Always follow the manufacturer’s age recommendation.

What should you look for in board games for children aged 8+?

Board games for children aged 8+ can vary more in player numbers, playing time and complexity. Check whether your child can already follow tactical decisions, bluffing or several steps in a turn. A short set of instructions and a first game together can make it easier to get started.

Which travel games for children take up very little space?

Card games, compact puzzle boxes and magnetic game collections usually take up less space than classic board games. Look for sturdy packaging, easy-to-organise storage and pieces that are less likely to go missing while you’re on the move.