Classic board games: rules for kids
Games everyone knows, explained simply. Each page covers what you need, how to set up, how a turn works and how to win, with a printable rules sheet for the table.
Classic board games teach kids to think ahead, plan and lose gracefully, and they get passed down from generation to generation. Most need nothing more than a board, a few pieces, or even just paper and a pencil.
- ♟️ ChessThe king of games, learned one piece at a time
- 🔴 Connect FourDrop your discs and line up four in a row
- ❌ Tic-Tac-ToeEvery kid's first game: three in a row
- ⚫ ReversiFlip your opponent's discs to your color
- 🟤 MancalaSow stones in the pits and collect them in your store
- ⬜ Dots and BoxesDraw lines and close the boxes
- 🥢 NimA math game with matchsticks: who takes the last one?
- 🐍 Snakes and LaddersRoll the die, climb the ladders, slide down the snakes
- ⚫ CheckersPlay online, learn and print the rules
- 🎲 BackgammonPlay online, learn and print the rules
Frequently asked questions
Can I print the rules?
Yes. Every game page has a print button that gives you a clean one-page rules sheet to keep with the game box.
Which board game is best for young kids?
Tic-tac-toe and snakes and ladders work from about age 4. Connect four and dots and boxes are great next steps, and chess, reversi and mancala suit ages 6 to 7 and up.
Do I have to sign up or pay?
No. Everything is free, with no sign-up and nothing to download.