Top 10 Best Educational Games for Kids in 2021 (Mattel Games, ThinkFun, and More)

This is a great hands-on way to learn simple mental math for kids. They learn how to add and subtract up to 12 using the dice. It brings a hint of competition too as they try to reach the finish line first. Through this game, math loses its intimidating reputation among children. 

According to a few reviewers, the instructions weren't as clear as they would have preferred. A few older kids also got bored of the game quickly, but there are other versions for older kids. Parents commented that their young ones played with the game for months. 

Reviewers noted that the game was made of high-quality materials and would last a long time. The dice also fit well in a small child's hand, which makes it easy to play. They also shared variations to the game to keep things interesting. 

This brain game, with over 50 million copies sold, is a perfect way to introduce sight words to early readers in an exciting way. It boosts sight word recognition, memory, and concentration among young learners. 

It works much like Bingo, where you fill in your card with the respective words from the deck, but this time you're dealing with beginner words. The clear instructions make it easy to understand the game so the kids can start playing right away. 

A few parents had issues with the Zingo slider distributing more tiles than needed, while some parents noted that it only contains 24 words plus the addition problems scattered across 72 tiles. It may be a bit boring for those who are already acquainted with sight words, they added. 

Many, however, loved that the game requires no adult help and can be enjoyed by the kids alone. It is also very sturdy, from the durable Zingo slider to the double-sided cardboard Zingo cards. The game is guaranteed to be hit among young ones, said parents and teachers. 

Harness inventiveness and quick-thinking with the 576 unique cards that require comparisons of people, places, things, and events. This game is easy to play, easy to learn, refreshing, and can last for hours. Kids and adults alike can practice their persuasion skills trying to convince the judge to choose a particular card.

Those who were acquainted with the original Apples to Apples "adult" version were a bit disappointed that there are fewer red cards and duplicates in this one. It's great for kids, though, and includes current references! 

This game is a perfect family game and results in lots of laughter among everyone. Many liked that the manufacturer updated the content and now contains references from Star Wars, Disney channel characters, pop singers, Harry Potter, and more. 

This game hones the reasoning and planning skills in a child through the mind-challenging laser mazes. The objective is to successfully manipulate the beams to hit the targets and make the pillars light up. The game includes 60 beginner- to advanced-level challenges to conquer and there are more online.

A few reviewers mentioned you should darken the room a bit to see the laser's path better. Many loved the concept of the game, however, and mentioned even adults found it challenging. 

Parents and children alike were fascinated with the game. They liked the well-built quality and weren't disappointed at the interaction and engagement it provided for the players. It's a game that will get the whole family involved, added reviewers! 

This fun and fast-paced game removes the "chore" from teaching sight words for parents and teachers. The kids might think they're just swatting flies, but adults know they're actually learning 224 of the most commonly used sight words effectively. The words go up to Grade 3, for increased complexity. 

Some parents commented that the flies and swatter could use a sturdier material, but many had no issues. They pointed out this approach was perfect for those who struggle with the traditional book learning method. 

Parents loved that the concept of the game was easy to comprehend and had different levels to cater to different ages. They also appreciated the drawstring bag to store all the pieces safely. 

Let your child's imagination and creativity take front and center with this sorting and stacking game. They can use the cards as guides to create the design and learn sight words or unleash their inner artist and build new concepts using the wooden pieces. 

A few reviewers received their packages with missing pieces. Luckily, customer service was responsive and quickly replaced their order! Some parents also suggested making the parts magnetic to keep them from scattering, which may annoy younger players. 

The cards are durable, the wooden blocks well-made and well-painted, and the pieces do not smell like paint, said reviewers who were highly satisfied with their purchase. They commented that there was an incredible number of cards include. Plus, they could branch out to unique designs, so kids are sure to stay preoccupied!

With over 200 puzzles that have hundreds of combinations but only one correct one, this challenging brain-twisting game is sure to enhance the problem-solving and strategic thinking skills of players. You can make designs in 2-D or 3-D for a wider variety.

Some reviewers didn't like that you have to pack the pieces perfectly to close the case. Others thought that the game could be repetitive after completing all the challenges. But on a positive note, parents liked that it's progressive, starting very easy and becoming more difficult to solve. 

Parents were also relieved that the game is visually appealing and very satisfying to complete. It's fun for children and adults, they added! You can also easily bring it anywhere for some on-the-go brain teasers. 

It may look like your regular activity page, but this innovative product boasts of building core skills in young children through fun methodologies. They get to learn various concepts that boost strategizing, problem-solving, observation, and concentration. Then when they're done, you can erase the answers and give it another go! 

A few parents mentioned that some of the problems were too hard while others were too easy, which made it a hit-or-miss game among children. Many had no issues, though, and loved that there was a little bit of everything in the game. 

Reviewers shared that the challenges urged the kids to work together and even got the family involved. The game is interactive and provides a super fun way to learn! Plus, it's easy to bring along during trips, they added. 

This puzzle game contains 24 words and teaches kids early spelling and reading. It's made of sturdy cardboard and develops a basic understanding of how to solve simple problems such as fitting the pieces together. 

A few reviewers commented that the cardboard pieces could wear out easily and some said they received sets with missing pieces, so check yours before the return window closes! 

Parents shared that the puzzle was very educational for the kids, and they had fun while learning. The children don't notice that they were getting acquainted with the words while playing. 

This game teaches colors and matching while developing hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills among young children. The goal is to be the first to fill up your log with the correct colors using the squeezy squirrel. It's a great way to learn outside the classroom! 

Parents noted that the game would be better played with other kids as it is too straightforward and basic for adults or older players. However, it does teach valuable skills like taking turns and being a good sport among children, said reviewers. 

Reviewers shared that the game was a big hit among their young ones and could keep them entertained for quite some time. As for the quality of the pieces, they commented that it was well-made.