With kids spending more time on screens, I often look for meaningful and fun ways to connect with my grandchildren. Just as my grandfather did with me, I’ve found that card games are the perfect way to bond and create lasting memories.
Here’s a list of 20 amazing card games that are easy to learn, fun to play, and suitable for kids of all ages.
Great Beginner One-on-One Games
These simple games are perfect for two players, making them ideal for quiet bonding moments with younger children.
1. Go Fish
Go Fish was the first card game I ever learned, and it's a classic for a reason! Easy to pick up and perfect for kids, players take turns asking for specific cards to complete sets, making it a simple yet engaging introduction to the world of card games.
2. War
An entirely luck-based game, War remains a favorite among kids and is a great way to reinforce counting skills needed for later games. Players simultaneously flip cards, and whoever plays the higher card wins the round. Ties result in a "war," adding excitement.
3. Crazy Eights
If UNO has an origin story, it’s, Crazy Eights. This game challenges players to be the first to discard all their cards by matching suits or numbers. Special cards like Eights keep the gameplay dynamic and fun.
When You're Ready for Something New or Want to Add More Players
As kids grow more confident, try these slightly more advanced games for groups.
4. 31 (2-12 players)
Known in my family as 'Scat,' this game reminds me of the old saying: you don’t have to outrun the bear, just the other campers! Only the player with the lowest hand loses, making it a lively and lighthearted game for all ages. For extra fun, swap out coins for candy like Hershey’s Kisses when playing with kids.
5. I Doubt It (3-13 players)
Known by names like "Cheat," this bluffing game teaches kids strategy and keeps them laughing. The goal is to get rid of cards while challenging each other’s honesty.
6. Egyptian Ratscrew (2-6 players)
A high-energy game involving quick reflexes and slapping piles, Egyptian Ratscrew is an exhilarating choice for older kids who enjoy fast-paced action.
Classic and Timeless Games
These games are enduring favorites, offering layers of fun and strategy for kids and adults alike.
7. Rummy (2-6 players)
This was the game of choice when I was in middle school. Players draw and discard cards to form "melds" of matching sets or runs. Rummy is an excellent game for teaching patterns and memory. It is also a good way to introduce kids to a game they can play later with adults.
8. President (3-16 players)
Also known as "Scum," this climbing game introduces kids to strategy and hierarchy as they race to discard their cards in the right order.
9. Fan Tan (3-6 players)
Players take turns building suits up and down from the central sevens. This simple but engaging game requires planning and patience.
High-Energy Group Games
Perfect for parties, these games are lighthearted and great for larger groups.
10. Speed (2-4 players)
The online version of this game is my go-to while waiting for a quick oil change or a medical appointment, but it is also great to play with kids. Speed is a fast-paced game where players race to play cards in ascending or descending order. It’s perfect for sharpening focus and reflexes—and a lot of fun!
11. Pig and Spoons (4-8 players)
Also known as Donkey, this game is quick to learn, fast-paced, and full of laughs—perfect for family game nights or kids’ parties. While the classic version has players touching their noses, swapping in spoons adds a fun and playful twist that’s especially great when playing with kids.
Games with a Cultural Flair
Introduce kids to the world with these classic games from different traditions.
12. Conquian (2 players)
Originating in Mexico, this game was introduced to me by a middle school math teacher. Focused on strategy, players carefully choose which cards to keep or discard to form sets and runs. Simple yet challenging, Conquian is a fantastic introduction to Rummy-style gameplay and a great way to develop critical thinking skills.
13. Scopa (2-6 players)
An Italian fishing game, Scopa has players capture cards by matching values. Simple yet strategic, it’s perfect for teaching math and critical thinking. While this game is often played with an Italian 40 card pack, it can easily be played with a standard deck by removing the extra cards.
Innovative and Unique Games
Try something a little different to spark curiosity and creativity.
14. Palace (2-6 players)
While this one also goes by some names I taught my kids not to use, for our purposes, we will call it the friendlier Palace. In this game, players work to be the first to discard all their cards while managing hidden cards in their "palace." It’s easy to learn and endlessly fun.
15. GOPS (2 players)
Short for "Game of Pure Strategy," this two-player game involves bidding for cards using a suit from your hand. It’s an outstanding exercise in decision-making.
Simple Yet Engaging Games
For those moments when you need something light and easy.
16. Ranter-Go-Round (3-12 players)
Another game that sometimes goes by a name that could get you put on the naughty list, this game is full of suspense as players pass cards, hoping to avoid being the one with the lowest card.
17. Mao (2-7 players)
Mao is a game I first learned in college, but it’s also a great fit for kids, especially those familiar with Crazy 8's. This mystery-based game challenges players to figure out the rules as they play, making it a creative, interactive, and often hilarious experience for both kids and adults.
Endless Fun
Whether you're introducing young kids to card games or engaging older children with strategy-based classics, there’s something here for everyone.
18. Cribbage (2 players)
Intrigued by my uncle’s cribbage board, I asked him to teach me this timeless classic. Combining counting, strategy, and the iconic peg board, Cribbage offers a unique and rewarding experience. While it may have a bit of a learning curve, mastering it is well worth the effort!
19. Golf (2-6 players)
Similar to 9 holes of golf, in this game, players aim to get the lowest total score across nine hands. Matching cards cancel out points, creating a mix of luck and light strategy.
20. Peanuts (2–8 players)
Also known as Nertz, this game is a fast-paced blend of solitaire and multiplayer action. Each player typically uses their own deck with a unique card back to make scoring easier. While specially designed decks are available, any decks with different card backs will work perfectly.
Bonus
3 Card Poker (2-6 players)
Whenever I watched my kid brother, he wanted to play this game. We allowed 2 discards per hand to make a bad deal less of a bummer. While it is easy to learn and play, somehow, this game felt less "kiddy" to him. It’s a great choice for kids ready to feel a little more grown-up while still enjoying a simple and fun card game. You can even add some chips or tokens to make it feel like a real poker game—perfect for teaching basic strategy and boosting confidence!
These card games offer more than just entertainment—they’re a chance to pull kids away from screens while teaching valuable skills like strategy, patience, and good sportsmanship. To make the experience even more exciting, use a themed deck, like Disney or Dinosaurs, to match your child’s interests. So, gather the kids, pick a favorite deck, and create some unforgettable screen-free family fun!
About the writer: Jim Daley is a lifelong card player and the moderator of one of the most frequently visited blogs on all things playing card related. He is also a father, grandfather, card collector, and Beatles fan.
