Learning math facts doesn't need to be a boring affair. With the variety of dice, card and board games available on the market today, there are many educational math games to choose from. With this fun games-based approach to learning math the difficulty will shift from trying to figure out how to awaken a love of math in kids (and parents!), to wondering how to get the kids to stop playing math games long enough to tend to their other studies!
Fun Math Games Using Dice
Yahtzee – This affordable classic dice game from Milton Bradley combines luck and strategy. Players practice sequencing, critical thinking skills, addition and multiplication facts. The game retails for approximately $10; score pads can be purchased separately for around $4.
Bunco – A game entirely based on chance, rather than strategy, Bunco can provide a lot of educational fun for even very small children. The object of the game is to collect points for rolling certain combinations of dice. Keeping score can help to practice basic addition, and regularly calculating how many points are needed to reach the goal of 21 can be encouraged as a way to practice subtraction facts. Bunco rules can be found easily in an online search, or the boxed game including dice, score cards and complete rules can be purchased at many large retail stores for around $15.
Phase 10 Dice Game – The Phase 10 Dice Game by Fundex Games uses a unique set of 10 dice, numbered 1 through 12. Players move through each phase of the game by achieving the sequence of dice noted for each level. The game requires strategy, teaches sequencing and patterns, and provides plenty of opportunity for practicing addition and multiplication facts. The rules can easily be modified with an easier system of score-keeping for younger players. Phase 10 is a fun, affordable (less than $10) game that works well for single and multiple players.
Educational Board Games that Teach Kids Math Facts
Sum Swamp – This fun and engaging game from Learning Resources is the winner of the Oppenheim best toy award. Kids practice addition and subtraction math facts by rolling the dice and adding and subtracting their way around the swamp, getting caught in the loop and hoping for a land on the Crocodile Short Cut. Recommended for ages 5+, this game retails for under $20.
Monopoly and Monopoly Junior – This classic board game by Hasbro Games now comes in so many versions it's hard to not find the perfect fit for any game lover! Monopoly provides endless opportunities for adding, subtracting, estimating, and general wheeling and dealing. Choose Monopoly Junior for simpler rules and smaller bills – a great option for younger children. Original versions retail for less than $20, with some specialty themed versions costing more.
More Math Games for Kids – Math Card Games
Zeus on the Loose – A creative educational game from Gamewright, Zeus on the Loose helps kids practice addition and strategic thinking as they chase Zeus around Mount Olympus, calling on the other Greek Gods to boost playing power. An inexpensive way to engage with mathematics and Greek Mythology at under $10.
Uno – No lover of card games should miss out on the game of Uno by Mattel. Wonderful for even the youngest of players, this is a great game for colour and number recognition, with easy-to-follow rules of play. Uno retails for under $10.
Establish a Family Game Time for Making Math Fun
The above listed games are just some of the many fun gaming options available for helping kids learn and practice math facts in a fun and interesting way. Take some time from formal math studies and play your way to a deeper understanding and love of mathematics!
Readers may also enjoy Teaching Math to Children Using Dice Games and Learning Addition Facts with Math Games.
Melanie Mulrooney - Melanie Mulrooney is a freelance writer, business and prosperity coach for mom entrepreneurs, and homeschooling mother of three beautiful ...
