When it comes to paper games, you might not think of many at first. However, these games were once the highlight of elementary and middle school days. Their popularity waned with the rise of smartphones, making them less convenient than a simple notebook. Yet, paper games are perfect for road trips or rainy days, offering endless fun. They show that all it takes is a little creativity and imagination to keep your children (and yourself) entertained. Not sure which paper games to introduce? Here are 13 that your kids will absolutely enjoy. And if you find yourself having just as much fun as they do, that’s a win!
Paper Games to Enjoy at Home
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Tic-Tac-Toe
This timeless classic is simple yet engaging. Create a grid with two horizontal and two diagonal lines. Players take turns placing an X or O in the boxes, aiming to get three in a row. It may be basic, but younger kids love it, and it can also boost their logical reasoning! -
Hangman
Another old favorite, Hangman is not only fun but educational. Adults can use inside jokes for words, while kids can guess dinner plans or weekend activities. -
Snowman
For a cheerful twist on Hangman, try Snowman. The same rules apply, but instead of drawing a stick figure, you’ll create a snowman for each incorrect guess. -
Dots and Boxes
Using grid paper filled with dots, players connect the dots to create squares. Whoever completes a square writes their initials in it. It’s strategic and can get quite intense! -
MASH
Arguably the most beloved nostalgic game, MASH (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House) lets you predict someone’s future. Write categories like potential partners, number of kids, and favorite cars, then cross out options based on a chosen number. -
Racetrack
Perfect for fans of Lightning McQueen, each player marks their starting position on a grid. Moves occur from point to point, and players must strategize to avoid “crashing.” -
Sprouts
Less structured than Dots and Boxes, Sprouts begins with a few dots. Players take turns connecting dots or adding new ones until no connections are left. -
Word Finder
One player writes six random letters (including at least one vowel) and sets a timer. The winner is the one who forms the most words from the letters. -
Paper Fortune Telling
A delightful throwback, this game involves folding paper into a fortune teller. Although the origami aspect might seem tricky at first, it’s a cherished childhood pastime. -
Pictionary
If you enjoy drawing, Pictionary is for you! Have someone outside the game think of a concept, and see how quickly your family can guess your artistic interpretation. -
Create-a-Story
Ideal for groups, start with two sentences to a story. Each player adds a sentence without seeing the previous ones, leading to often hilarious outcomes. -
Categories
Similar to Scattergories, players divide their paper into categories like names or animals. After picking a letter, everyone writes down words that fit, and the player with the most unique answers wins. -
Paper Telephone
Players draw based on what they feel on their backs, leading to a fun comparison of the final drawings with the original.
These games are not only about having fun but also about creating lasting memories. For more ideas on fun activities, check out this blog post.
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