50 Best Games to Play When Bored: Boredom Busters for Kids

Are you tired of hearing those two dreaded words every parent dreads: “I’m bored”? Keeping your kids entertained and engaged can be quite a challenge, especially when boredom strikes. But fear not! We’re here to rescue you from boredom and turn those dreary moments into a whirlwind of fun. From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got something for every occasion and every mood. Whether your little ones are looking for solo challenges or craving interactive group games, we’ve got them covered. So, wave goodbye to yawns and sighs and say hello to laughter and endless amusement!

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In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 50 fun games to play when bored, specially curated for kids. These games are designed to expand their imaginations, stimulate their creativity, and provide hours of entertainment that will make boredom a thing of the past.

10 Best Online Games to Beat Boredom

Given the increased reliance on screens in this modern era, online games have emerged as a prevalent form of amusement among children. The acknowledgment from Think U Know UK highlights the positive impact of online games on fostering teamwork, concentration, communication, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, these games enhance young individuals’ communication and conflict-resolution skills.

When boredom strikes and you’re looking for virtual fun, these online games will keep your little ones engaged. Moreover, you can take advantage of special discounts on these games. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 10 best online games to play when bored:

Play is the highest form of research. – Albert Einstein

1. SplashLearn

SplashLearn is a treasure trove of engaging games that will banish boredom for kids. This comprehensive educational platform provides a wide array of captivating games designed to stimulate young minds and foster a love for learning. Whether it’s exploring mathematical concepts, improving language skills, or unleashing their creativity through art, SplashLearn offers a dynamic and immersive learning environment that keeps children engaged and motivated. As they navigate through various levels and challenges, children can develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, all while having a blast. 

• Age Range: 3-11
• Price: Starting at $7.49/mo when billed annually
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

2. PBS Kids

PBS Kids provides a variety of engaging games based on popular children’s TV shows. From “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” to “Curious George,” kids can enjoy educational adventures and interactive experiences while exploring their favorite characters’ worlds.

• Age Range: 3+
• Price: Free 
• Available on: iOs devices, Android, and Kindle Fire devices

3. WoozWorld

Step into the vibrant virtual world of WoozWorld, where creativity, fashion, and socializing blend seamlessly. In WoozWorld, kids can create and customize their own avatars, design unique virtual spaces, and engage in exciting activities with friends from around the globe. From fashion shows to parties and interactive games, WoozWorld offers endless opportunities for self-expression and fun

• Age Range: 4-12
• Price: Free 
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

4. Sesame Street

Sesame Street offers interactive games featuring beloved characters like Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird. Kids can engage in educational activities focused on early literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, and more.

• Age Range: 3+
• Price: Free  
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

5. Toca Life World

Toca Life World is a digital playset that allows kids to explore different virtual locations and engage in imaginative play. They can create stories, interact with characters, and customize their own virtual world.

• Age Range:  4 and up
• Price: From $0.99 to $13.99​2​
• Available on: iOs devices, Android, and Kindle Fire devices

6. Crossy Road

Crossy Road is a casual arcade game where players help characters cross roads, rivers, and other obstacles without getting hit. It offers simple yet addictive gameplay and challenges players’ timing and coordination.

• Age Range:  9 and up
• Price: Free  with in-app purchases
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

7. Mario Kart Tour

Mario Kart Tour brings the popular Mario Kart racing game to mobile devices. Kids can compete in exciting races with colorful characters from the Mario franchise, utilizing power-ups and navigating challenging tracks.

• Age Range:  4 and up
• Price: Starting at $4.99 
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

8. LEGO Games

LEGO offers a variety of online games based on their popular building toys. LEGO games provide creative and entertaining experiences for young players, from racing to puzzle-solving adventures.

• Age Range: 4-16
• Price: Free with in-app purchase
• Available on: iOs devices, Android, and Kindle Fire devices

9. Minecraft

Discover the immersive world of Minecraft, a popular game loved by kids and even teachers for its problem-solving and construction abilities. Kids can engage in problem-solving, construction, and exploration in a rich virtual world, share their creations, and engage in safe gameplay

• Age Range: 6-14
• Price: Free
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

10. Animal Jam

Animal Jam is a virtual world where kids can create animal avatars, explore different lands, play games, and learn about animals and the environment. It offers a safe and educational environment for kids to enjoy and connect with other players.

• Age Range: 9-11
• Price: Starting at $6.95 per month
• Available on: iOs devices and Android

These online games balance entertainment, education, and social interaction. However, setting appropriate screen time limits and ensuring your child’s online safety is essential by monitoring their interactions and using parental controls when necessary.

10 Games to Play When School Gets Boring

Sometimes, boredom can strike during school hours and make the minutes feel like hours. If you need some entertainment to pass the time, these games are perfect for playing discreetly and keeping yourself engaged. Here are 10 games to play when bored at school:

1. Hangman

Hangman is a classic word game that requires only a pen and paper. Choose a word and have a friend try to guess it by suggesting letters. Be creative with your word choices and see who can stump their opponent.

2. Tic Tac Toe

Consider playing Tic Tac Toe, one of the most popular games to play when you’re bored. It is a simple yet addictive game that can be played on any piece of paper. Challenge a classmate to a match and take turns marking Xs and Os in a grid. The first one to get three in a row wins.

3. Categories

Choose a category, such as animals, countries, or foods, and take turns naming items that fit into that category. Set a time limit for each turn and see how many things you can come up with. It’s a great way to test your knowledge and creativity.

4. Pictionary

Grab a pen and paper, and play a game of Pictionary with a friend. Take turns drawing pictures to represent words or phrases while the other person guesses what you’re drawing. It’s a fun and artistic game that can spark laughter and creativity.

5. 20 Questions

In 20 Questions, one person thinks of an object, and others ask yes-or-no questions to determine what it is. The goal is to guess the object within 20 questions. It’s a game that challenges your deductive reasoning skills.

6. Dots and Boxes

Dots and Boxes is a strategic paper-and-pencil game that involves connecting dots to create squares. Take turns drawing lines between adjacent dots, and whenever a player completes a square, they get to claim it. The player with the most squares at the end wins.

7. I Spy

Challenge your classmates to a game of “I Spy.” Take turns choosing an object in the classroom and providing clues for others to guess what it is. It’s a game that sharpens observation skills and keeps everyone engaged.

8. Charades

Charades is a game of pantomime where players act out a word or phrase without speaking. Divide into teams and take turns acting out different words or phrases while your teammates try to guess. It’s a game that can create hilarious moments and foster teamwork.

Related Reading: Great Charades for Kids of All Ages

9. Duck, Duck, Goose

Duck, Duck, Goose is a classic game that promotes physical activity and social interaction. Children sit in a circle, and one player goes around tapping others on the head, saying “Duck.” When they tap someone and say “goose,” that person must chase them around the circle to try to tag them before they take the empty spot.

10. Freeze Dance

Freeze Dance is a fun and energetic game encouraging movement and listening skills. Play music and have everyone dance, but when the music stops, everyone must freeze. Those who don’t freeze in time are out. Start and stop the music at random intervals.

Related Reading: Best Dance Songs for Kids to Get Them Grooving

10 Entertaining Games to Play When Bored With a Friend

When you’re bored and have a friend by your side, it’s the perfect opportunity to engage in exciting games together. Whether at home, in the park, or on a playdate, these games will surely bring laughter and entertainment. Here are 10 games to play when bored with a friend:

1. Jenga

Jenga is one of the best games to play with friends when bored. Set up a Jenga tower by stacking wooden blocks in a sturdy tower formation. The aim of the game is for players to take turns removing blocks from a tower and placing them on top, trying to prevent the tower from falling.

2. Hide and Seek

Hide and Seek is a thrilling game of concealment and discovery. One person closes their eyes and counts while the other hides. Once counting is done, the seeker must find the hidden person. The game continues with players taking turns being the seeker.

3. Obstacle Course

Create an obstacle course using objects around you, such as cones, hula hoops, and jump ropes. Take turns navigating the course, climbing over obstacles, crawling under things, and jumping through hoops. Time each other and see who can complete it fastest.

4. Scavenger Hunt

Design a scavenger hunt by making a list of items or clues for your friend to find. Hide objects or create a trail of clues that lead to a final treasure. It’s an exciting game that encourages problem-solving and exploration.

Related Reading: Best Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids Paired With Themes

5. Balloon Volleyball

Blow up a balloon and set up a makeshift net using a rope or a string. Play a game of volleyball, hitting the balloon back and forth over the net. The objective is to keep the balloon from touching the ground. See how long you can keep the rally going.

6. Board Game Marathon

Set up a board game session and play a series of your favorite board games. Take turns choosing different games and enjoy the friendly competition and strategic thinking they offer. The options are endless, from classic games like Monopoly to cooperative games like Pandemic.

Related Reading: Best Board Games for Kids to Keep Them Entertained 

7. Storytelling

Take turns creating a story together. One person starts with a sentence or a few lines, and the other adds to the story. Keep building on the narrative, adding twists and turns, and see where the story takes you.

8. Paper Airplane Contest

Fold paper airplanes and challenge to see which airplane can fly the farthest or perform the best tricks. Experiment with different folding techniques and launch your planes one by one. Measure the distances and have friendly competitions to determine the winners.

9. Memory Challenge

Lay cards with pictures or objects facing down. Take turns flipping two cards at a time to find matching pairs. The player with the most teams at the end wins.

Related Reading: Brain Boosting Memory Games for Kids for Enhanced Learning

10. Rock-Paper-Scissors

Engage in the timeless game of Rock-Paper-Scissors. Players simultaneously choose to form a rock (fist), paper (flat hand), or scissors (two fingers in a V shape). Rock beats scissors, scissors beat paper, and paper beats rock.

20 Best Games for Indoor Fun

Games are the perfect solution when you’re looking for ways to have a great time indoors. Whether you’re spending time with family or simply looking for entertaining activities to enjoy on your own, having a collection of the best indoor games can enhance the fun factor. In this section, we have compiled a list of the 20 best indoor games to play when bored; fun is guaranteed to bring excitement and laughter to any gathering.

1. Puzzle Time

Dive into a jigsaw puzzle and see if you can complete it independently. Choose a puzzle with a challenging image or a high piece count to keep yourself engaged.

2. Crossword Puzzles

Sharpen your mind and enjoy some mental stimulation with crossword puzzles. Whether you have a crossword puzzle book or prefer online versions, it’s a great way to pass the time and keep your brain active.

Related Reading: Best Puzzles For Kids Of All Ages

3. Learn a Magic Trick

Choose a trick that captivates your imagination. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll master the art of the trick, delighting audiences with your flawless execution and leaving them awestruck by your newfound abilities.

4. Guess the Sound

Enjoy a guessing game with sounds from everyday objects, such as ringing phones, clapping hands, or meowing cats. See if you and your friends can correctly identify each sound’s source, adding fun and challenge to your boredom-busting activities.

5. Bubble Wrap Stomp

Lay out a large sheet of bubble wrap on the floor and let the kids stomp and pop the bubbles with their feet. Popping bubble wrap can be a great stress-relieving activity, offering a fun way for kids to release pent-up energy.

6. Card Towers

Challenge your kids to build the tallest tower using a deck of cards. Building card towers involves engineering skills as they experiment with different structures and learn about balance and stability.

7. Origami

Teach your kids the art of paper folding and have them create fun origami animals or shapes. Origami can be a calming and mindful activity for children, allowing them to focus their attention and express their creativity through paper art.

8. DIY Playdough

Make homemade playdough using simple ingredients like flour, salt, water, and food coloring, and let your kids mold and create with it. Playing with playdough sparks creativity as children can sculpt various objects, creatures, or imaginary worlds.

9. Alphabet Hunt

Search for objects around the house that start with each alphabet letter. This is one of the best games to play when bored at home as it reinforces letter recognition and vocabulary as they identify and name objects. 

10. Lego Challenge

Give your kids specific Lego building challenges, such as building a bridge, a spaceship, or a zoo, or let them use their creativity to construct their unique creations. Lego challenges encourage creativity and imagination as children explore different ways to build and create using these versatile blocks.

11. Indoor Bowling

Set up a bowling alley using soft toys or empty water bottles as pins and roll a soft ball to knock them down. Indoor bowling can be a fun and active game that allows kids to practice their coordination and have friendly competitions with friends or family.

12. Jigsaw Puzzle

Work with your kids to complete a jigsaw puzzle featuring their favorite characters or beautiful scenery. This activity enhances problem-solving skills as children analyze the pieces and determine how they fit together. 

Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play, children learn how to learn.” – Fred Rogers

13. Indoor Golf

Create a mini-golf course using cardboard, cups, and obstacles. This game improves hand-eye coordination as they put the ball toward the target. It also enhances patience and problem-solving as they navigate the course and aim for the holes.

14. DIY Magnetic Fishing Game

Create a fishing game by attaching paper clips to small toys and using a magnet on a string as a fishing rod. This activity enhances hand-eye coordination as they aim the magnet and catch the toys.

15. Name That Smell

Blindfold the kids and let them smell various items, such as a lemon, a cinnamon stick, or a flower. They have to guess what each item is based on its scent.

16. Balloon Pop Art

Fill balloons with washable paint and attach them to a canvas or large sheet of paper. Let the kids pop the balloons with darts or by stomping on them to create a colorful and unique piece of artwork.

Related Reading: Best Art Activities or Art Project Ideas for Kids

17. Straw Rockets

Use drinking straws and small squares of paper to create rockets. Have the kids blow through the straws to launch their rockets and see whose rocket goes the farthest.

18. Sock Basketball

Roll up socks to create makeshift balls and set up a small hoop or target. The kids can compete in a friendly game of sock basketball, aiming to score as many points as possible.

19. Minute to Win It Challenges

Set a one-minute timer and have the kids complete various challenges using household items, such as stacking cups, balancing books, or transferring objects with a spoon.

20. Indoor Camping

Set up a pretend camping experience indoors with a tent, sleeping bags, and a pretend campfire. Kids can tell stories, play camping games, and enjoy a picnic-style meal.

Related Reading: Indoor Games For Kids that Improve Memory, Cognition, & Creativity

Conclusion

Play offers a lot of different experiences and is considered one of our best achievements. As Dr. David Whitebread, an esteemed researcher from Cambridge’s Faculty of Education, aptly expresses, “Play in all its rich variety is one of the highest achievements of the human species. It underpins how we develop as intellectual, problem-solving, emotional adults and is crucial to our success as a highly adaptable species.”

When boredom strikes, it’s essential to have a repertoire of fun games to keep kids entertained and engaged. In this article, we’ve provided diverse games to play when bored, ranging from online options that harness the power of technology to offline activities that promote creativity, problem-solving, and physical activity. These games are sure to become go-to options whenever the dreaded phrase, “I’m bored,” is uttered. So, let the fun begin!

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