educational games 3 year olds can play

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34 Fun and Creative Games For Three-Year-Olds

October 23, 2023 //  by  Seda Unlucay

By age three, most preschoolers can sort objects by size and can understand longer sentences. They are ready to ride a tricycle, kick a ball, or play catch. They are also able to play simple board games, develop sight word vocabulary, and practice typing skills.

We’ve gathered a list of 34 games, creative activities, painting and drawing ideas, engaging memory puzzles, and fun physical activities you can use to help sharpen their growing literacy and numeracy skills while keeping their energetic bodies moving. Read on and pick out a few to try with your kiddos!

Related Content:

• Games for Kids
• Games for 1-Year-Olds
• Games for 2-Year-Olds
• Games for 4-Year-Olds
• Games for 5-Year-Olds
• Games for 6-Year-Olds
• Games for 7-Year-Olds
• Games for 8-Year-Olds
• Games for 9-Year-Olds
• Games for 10-Year-Olds

1. Count Your Chickens Board Game

Get everyone settled down with a counting board game! Count Your Chickens is a classic board game that challenges your young learners to gather all their chickens into a coop. What a fun way to teach counting and cooperation skills!

Learn more: Amazon

2. Play Follow The Leader

Follow the leader is a classic game that’ll teach your kiddos many skills including following directions, sharpening concentration, and developing cooperative skills. It’s also a super way to strengthen physical skills such as speed, balance, agility, and motor coordination.

Learn More: Empowered Parents

3. Make Sparkly Slime

Most of your kids are probably slime and glitter-obsessed, so why not combine the two with a simple recipe? You can help them jazz up their slime by letting them add magical unicorns, trucks, or any toys of their choice for hours of fun playtime!

Learn More: See Vanessa Craft

4. Make a Lego Table

Although made up of small pieces, LEGO is safe for three-year-olds and provides hours of enjoyable playtime. Playing with LEGO gives your preschoolers a fantastic way to develop their problem-solving and logic skills while expressing their creativity. What will your little builders create?

Learn More: Sunny Day Family

5. Felt Cookie Busy Bag

This activity is inspired by the hilarious children’s book “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” and is sure to have your preschoolers hooked. They’ll have plenty of fun getting creative with patterns and inventing colorful designs for their cookies. You may need to have some real cookies on hand though, as this craft could have them working up a bit of an appetite! 

Learn More: Views From A Step Stool

6. Have Fun With a Fishing Game

Who knew fishing could be educational? This engaging game combines sensory play and fine motor skills and is an easy way to develop your kiddos’ color recognition, counting, and memory skills. They’ll love this water play activity!

Learn More: 7 Days Of Play

7. Matching Bug-Building Game

Your preschoolers will want these Cooties in their classroom! This matching bug-building game challenges your kids to build a Cootie bug, making for hours of creative playtime. They’ll each take turns to spin the spinner which will tell them which color and body part to add to their bug next.

8. Rainbow Counting Game

Bring some color to your math lesson with this sweet game! This bright printable activity will give your kiddos plenty of practice with number recognition, counting, estimating, and simple addition. Grab some cotton balls and dice, and let them have a go!

Learn More: Pickle Bums

9. Make a Jello Dig

It’s time for your kiddies to get their hands dirty! This slimy, squishy, and super fun activity requires nothing more than Jello and some toys or loose parts. You can mix up the jello and add in the toys before leaving it to set. Then it’s for your toddlers to discover! 

Learn More: Busy Toddler

10. Construct a Bubble Pop Road

Build a recycled road! Create this reusable activity by laying out strips of bubble wrap on the floor, using boxes to simulate hills. Then it’s your preschoolers’ turn to test out different cars and trucks and see which ones will pop the bubble wrap!

Learn More: Hands-On As We Grow

11. Counting and Matching Online Game

Grab your preschoolers’ interest with an interactive online game! Letting them play this free educational game provides them with plenty of counting and matching practice that they’ll find super fun! With lots of examples of using ten frames, counting up, and number recognition practice, they’ll soon be experts in all their numbers up to 20!

Learn More: Top Marks

12. Play Peek-A-Boo with Farm Animals

What three-year-old doesn’t love animals? This free farm animal printable makes for a fun game of peek-a-boo! Your preschoolers are sure to love playing hide and seek with their choice of pigs, sheep, cows, or horses, as they practice their cutting and sticking skills!

Learn More: Buggy and Buddy

13. Play a Cooking and Baking Game

Why not let your young learners get creative by helping with easy recipes such as fruit kebabs or decorating cupcakes? It’s a great way to sharpen their cooking skills for later in life as well as being a fun family game. 

Learn More: C oo k Republic

14. Sort Apples and Oranges

Combine your math and healthy eating lessons with this fun sorting activity! It’s a great way to develop math skills such as sorting and counting as well as discussing the concept of same and different. Other items like blueberries, cereal, small crackers, or even items from nature such as pebbles and leaves, will work just as well for this super activity.

Learn More: Carrots Are Orange

15. Develop Geometry Skills With a Fun Learning Game

What better way to learn about shapes than making silly faces? Let your kiddies’ imaginations run wild, combing bananas, pizza, and candy corn to make the funniest faces they can come up with! 

Learn More: Education

16. Loose Parts Play

Loose-part play is a brilliant early development activity. Parts can be anything from recycled items to tile pieces to rocks, pebbles, and beads. It’s a great way to expose your preschoolers to different textures and materials. You’ll be surprised at all the fun and imaginative ideas they come up with!

Learn More: My Teaching Cupboard

17. Bubble Wrap Learning

Lean into the addictive qualities of bubble wrap by using it as a learning tool! Write letters or numbers onto colored stickers, and place each sticker on a bubble. Then let your preschoolers’ take turns popping the bubbles that correspond to the letter or number you’ve called out. 

Learn More: Meaningful Mama

18. Cotton Ball Fun

Hone your kiddies’ fine motor skills with this simple activity! Grab some cotton balls and an empty container and have them place the balls into the container. This is a fantastic way to develop their fine motor skills as well as discuss relevant vocabulary such as ‘soft, squishy, and white’.

Learn More: The Stay-At-Home Mom Survival Guide

19. Make a Block Tower

There are so many ways to incorporate learning with blocks. You can challenge your kiddos to match base colors, practice their counting skills, or just let their imagination run wild while developing color recognition and matching skills. The possibilities are endless!

Learn More: No Time for Flash Cards

20. Try Painting With Rolling Pins

Experiment with bubble wrap and paint! Have your kiddies combine rolling pins and bubble wrap to create a fun, inventive, and super-engaging painting project. The final effect is textured and vibrant, making for a beautiful display or keepsake.

Learn More: Teaching 2 and 3-Year-Olds

21. Animal Sound Game

Engage your little ones’ senses and memory with this Animal Sound Game. You can play the sounds of various animals and have them guess which animal it is. Not only does it familiarize them with different animals, but it also develops their listening skills.

Learn More: Educagaming

22. Sock Puppets Show

Create easy sock puppets using old socks! Encourage your kiddos to get creative by attaching buttons and yarn, and using fabric markers to create their puppets. Then let them create stories and perform a little puppet show! This boosts creativity and storytelling abilities, providing endless entertainment.

Learn More: Children’s Museum of Sonoma County

23. Shadow Puppets on the Wall

Turn off the lights, grab a flashlight, and let the fun begin! Show your preschoolers how to make hand shapes to project fun shadows on the wall, sparking imagination while developing their fine motor skills. From barking dogs to fluttering birds, the shapes you can make are endless!

Learn More: Drama 4 Kids

24. Hide and Seek with Soft Toys

Ready or not, here I come! Play a whole-class game of hide-and-seek by hiding various toys around the room and guiding your kiddos to find each one. This game enhances their observation skills and develops their positional vocabulary of words like under, above, and behind.

Learn More: Find Me Friends

25. Musical Bumps

Play some music and encourage your kids to dance around and burn off some of that energy! When the music stops, they have to sit down as quickly as possible. This energetic game helps to refine their reaction times and gives them a fun dose of physical activity. Let’s get dancing!

Learn More: Party G a mes 4 Kids

26. DIY String Bead Necklaces

Get creative with this necklace-making idea! Give your kiddies large, colorful beads and string, and have them thread their own necklaces. This super creative activity promotes fine motor skills and pattern recognition while giving them the chance to make something they can actually wear!

Learn More: Thimble and Twig

27. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Take the fun outside! Lead your little learners on a walk outside and give them a list of items to find. As they collect leaves, pinecones, and flowers, they’ll be honing their observational abilities and learning all about the great outdoors! 

Learn More: Green Child Magazine

28. Bubble Blowing Fiesta

Challenge your kiddos to build a tower of bubbles! Mix some soap solution and let them use bubble blowers and straws of various shapes and sizes to try and create their bubbly creations! Who will be able to create the tallest tower?

Learn More: Happy Hooligans

29. Dress-Up Relay

On your marks, get set, go! Lay out various clothing items and challenge your preschoolers to dress up as fast as they can. It’s a fun way to improve their self-dressing skills and understand different types of clothing. As a bonus, they’re sure to find the resulting wacky outfits hilarious!

Learn More: Healthy Kids

30. Jump the Stream

Practice jumping with this fun, play-pretend game! Place two ropes or strings a short distance apart on the floor, to create a “stream.” Then, encourage your kiddos to jump across without falling into the water. You can adjust the distance for difficulty, helping them develop their gross motor skills and sense of distance. 

Learn More: YouTube

31. Feather Balance

Give your kids a feather each and challenge them to stand it upright and balance it on their hands. They’ll need to focus and move around to keep the feather from falling over! This fun game is a super way to teach patience and concentration.

32. DIY Sensory Bins

Spark curiosity with a sensory bin! Start by filling a container with items like rice, beans, or sand, then hide small toys inside for your little ones. They’ll spend hours digging to discover and play with all the hidden toys. These are a fantastic way to introduce a new theme or topic!

Learn More: Little Bins for Little Hands

33. Sticky Spider Web

Let your kiddos practice their aim with this sticky spider web activity! Create your web with painter’s tape, then give them lightweight balls or paper to throw and stick to the web. What a great game to develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination!

Learn More: My Baba

34. Paper Airplane Challenge

Introduce your littlest learners to basic physics and aerodynamics concepts with this simple activity! Show them how to fold paper planes together and then hold a competition to see whose can fly the furthest or highest! Have them decorate their planes to make things even more exciting! Learn More: Science Friday

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• Counting syllables
• Reading sight words
• Recognizing rhyming words
• Engaging in wordplay
• Understanding and contributing to a short narrative
• Counting to 10
• Recognizing written numbers from 1 to 10
• Sorting by color and number
• Tracing numbers
• Recognizing shapes and patterns
• Recognizing “more” and “less”
• Painting and coloring
• Illustrating a story
• Expressing themselves through art and design
• Recognizing and naming colors
• Recognizing shapes
• Comparing sizes
• Talking about weather
• Picking the right clothes for the weather
• Using a mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen

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15 Best Learning Activities for Your 3 Year Old Preschooler

5 Fun Developmental Activities for 3-Year-Olds

5 indoor activities for 3-year-olds, 5 engaging art activities for 3-year-olds, how educational activities transform kids’ lives.

Toddlers are very active and always on the go! As a parent, it can be tough to keep up with their energy levels. However, it’s important to find ways to keep your toddler occupied and engaged and learning!

Here are 15 activities for 3-year-olds that are both fun and educational:

1. Recognizing Letters and Sounds

Learning activities for 3-year-olds are most fun when they are dressed up as family games, pretend plays, or become parts of our daily activities and observations. Recognizing letters and their sounds is one such activity that can be done in several ways.

Things you need:

A whiteboard or chalkboard, some colored markers or chalk. You can also use letter cards, board games, or online games for kids .

How to play:

You can play games where you write a letter on the board and teach your child to read it. Preschoolers can start learning both uppercase and lowercase letters . If they get it right, give them a point. If not, give them a clue and let them try again.

You can also play the “sound it out” game. Write a letter on the board and ask your child to make the sound it makes. Again, if they get it right, give them a point. If not, give them a clue and let them try again.

Pointing to letters written somewhere as you go about your day—a cereal box, a signboard, a magazine, etc.—is also an easy activity to help your child learn to read them. Children can also trace letters with their fingers on the sand, match uppercase and lowercase letters, erase letters on a chalkboard, etc. 

If you are busy, play some alphabet songs for your toddler to dance or let them play some online English games .

Skills your preschooler will learn:

Letter recognition, phonemic awareness, letter sounds

SplashLearn: Most Comprehensive Learning Program for PreK-5

SplashLearn inspires lifelong curiosity with its game-based PreK-5 learning program loved by over 40 million children. With over 4,000 fun games and activities, it’s the perfect balance of learning and play for your little one.

2. Reading with Your Child

Reading books with your child is one of the best things you can do for their development. Not only does it improve language skills, but it also helps them learn sight words, develop their imagination, and understand the world around them.

Books that are appropriate for your child’s age and interests, such as picture books, easy readers, etc.

Sit down with your child and read a book together. You can take turns reading the pages or have your child read the whole book to you.

Books for toddlers should be short and have many pictures supporting the story. This will help keep their attention span, and they will be more likely to understand the concepts in the book.

Read word by word, pointing to each word with your finger, and ask inferential questions based on how, why, what, when, and where to encourage the thinking skills in kids .

Language skills, sight words , attention span, comprehension, memory, imagination

3. Making Up Stories

Children love to listen to and tell stories, and this is an activity that can be done anywhere, anytime. It’s the perfect thing to do in a car while traveling, at bedtime, or even while waiting in line at the grocery store.

None! Just your child’s imagination

Have your child make up a story, either on their own or with your help. Encourage them to use their imagination and be as creative as they want. If they get stuck, you can prompt them with questions or ideas. You may also correct their grammar along the way, but it’s important to let them be creative and have fun with this activity.

If your child is stumped, set an example by asking them for three or four words and make a story that uses all of them. For instance, if they give you the words “cat,” “green,” “ball,” and “tree,” you could make up a story about a green cat that climbs a tree to fetch a ball.

Eventually, you can give words to your child and have them make up a story using those words.

Creativity, imagination, storytelling, communication

4. Playing a Number Game

Offline and online, math can be fun for kids if it’s taught interactively and creatively. Playing the number sense games is one such activity that will help your child learn numbers, counting, and basic arithmetic operations in a fun and engaging way.

A whiteboard or a chalkboard, some colored markers or chalk. You can also use games focusing on numbers and counting, such as board games, card games, etc. Online math games are also available.

There are many games that you can play with your child to help him learn numbers and math concepts. One such game is the “guess the number” game. Write down a number between 1 and 10 on the board, and ask your child to guess it. If he gets it right, give him a point. If not, give him a clue and let him have another try.

You can also play the “greater than or less than” game. Write down two numbers on the board, such as 3 and 5, and ask your child which number is greater. If he gets it right, give him a point. If not, give him a clue and let him try again.

Numbers , counting , and basic arithmetic operations include addition , subtraction , multiplication , and division .

5. Sorting Activities

Sorting is a fun activity that helps children learn about different attributes such as size, shape, color, etc. It also helps them develop problem-solving skills.

Various objects can be sorted according to size, shape, color, etc. You can use blocks, balls, toy cars, berries, buttons, etc.

Let your child choose a few objects and ask him to sort them according to size, shape, color, etc. For example, they can sort blocks by size or toy cars by color. As they sort the objects, help them identify the attribute they use for sorting.

Sorting, categorizing, and problem-solving.

Check out the best sensory activities for 3-year-olds you can try!

One of the favorite preschool activities for 3-year-olds is drawing. At this point, the artistic skills of a child are not really important. Drawing is a fun activity for toddlers to express themselves, work on their fine motor skills, and have fun!

Paper, crayons, markers, colored pencils

Sit with your child and encourage them to draw whatever comes to mind. You can also give some drawing ideas to kids , such as “Draw a picture of your family,” “Draw a picture of your favorite animal,” etc. You may make a drawing and ask your child to trace it or copy it.

Creativity, fine motor skills, imagination, attention span

7. Building with Blocks

One of the easy, no-mess activities for 3-year-olds at home is to let them build with blocks. It is amazing how much fun and creative they can be with this simple activity.

Blocks are also a great way for children to learn about shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns.

Blocks of various shapes and sizes

Let your child play with the blocks freely or give him or her some challenges, such as “build a tower as tall as you can,” “make a house for your favorite stuffed toy,” etc.

Creativity, imagination, problem-solving, eye-hand coordination, shapes, colors, patterns

8. Paper Cutting with Safety Scissors

Children feel empowered with a tool in their hands. And they are so proud of themselves when they can cut the paper!

Paper, safety scissors, craft supplies like pom poms, googly eyes (optional)

Give your child a piece of paper and let him or her cut it any way they want. If you like, you can also give some challenges, such as “cut out a circle,” “make a snowflake,” etc. You can help your child decorate the cutouts with craft supplies if desired.

Fine motor skills, creativity, imagination, attention span

*Please note that only safety scissors should be used for this activity. Regular scissors are too sharp for little ones.*

9. Doing Daily Chores

You’ll be surprised at all the things your toddlers can do if only you let them try. Giving them some simple chores to do not only helps them learn some valuable life skills but also makes kids feel proud and accomplished.

Chores that are appropriate for your child’s age and abilities, such as making their bed, dusting furniture, setting the table, etc.

Choose a chore that you would like your child to help with. Then, show them how to do it and let them try it themselves. Some of the chores that a 3-year-old can do may require some assistance or supervision, but it’s important to let them explore their capabilities and try new things.

A toddler can easily be overwhelmed with too many chores, so it’s important to start small. Choose one or two simple tasks that you know your child can handle. As they get older and more capable, you can give them more chores to do. Remember to praise them for a job well done!

Daily living skills, responsibility, independence, pride, satisfaction

10. Role-playing

What’s funnier than seeing a tiny toddler acting like a fat aunt or an old grandpa? Role-plays are one of the best activities for 3-year-olds as they help them learn about different emotions, people, and situations.

None! Just your child’s imagination. A few props like a walking stick, a hat, a lady’s purse, or a wig could come in handy to help set the scene.

Have your child choose a character that he or she would like to play. It could be anyone—a family member, a friend, a cartoon character, an animal, etc. Then, encourage them to act out the part. They can speak differently, use props, and do whatever they want to bring the character to life. Children learn to observe people around them and understand their emotions in this way.

Creativity, imagination, emotional intelligence, communication, problem-solving

Check out the best outdoor activities for 3-year-olds here!

11. Playing Dress Up

Dress-up games are not gender-specific. Most children love them! This activity helps 3-year-olds use their imagination, learn about social norms and roles, and have lots of fun!

Old clothes, hats, scarves, jewelry, etc., can be used as dress-up items. You can also use old sheets or towels to make capes or skirts. You can also use actual costumes if you have them.

Let your child choose what they want to be, and then help them get dressed in the appropriate clothing. If you like, you can also act out a play or story together with your child in their new costume.

Creativity, imagination, role-playing, problem-solving

12. Making Music with Household Items

This is one of the fun activities for 3-year-olds that can be done with items that you already have around the house. It’s a great way to introduce your child to music and help them develop a sense of rhythm.

Household items that can be used as musical instruments, such as pots and pans, plastic containers, wooden spoons, etc. You can also use actual musical instruments if you have them.

Let your child choose what he or she wants to use as an instrument. Then, encourage them to make music with it however they want. You can also sing along or dance to the music!

Music skills, sense of rhythm, gross motor skills, creativity, imagination

13. Making Art with Thumb , Hand, or Foot Impressions

Most toddlers do not know how to go about making an art piece. But they love to play a role in helping make one! This activity allows them to do just that, resulting in a beautiful piece of art that you can hang on your fridge or wall.

Non-toxic paint, paper, and something to use as a stamp (such as potato, carrot, or eraser)

Let your child choose what paint color he or she wants to use. Then, help them make a thumbprint, handprint, or footprint on the paper. You can also make patterns with stamps by carving a shape into a potato, carrot, or eraser. Once the paint is dry, you can hang up the artwork!

Creativity, imagination, fine motor skills, color recognition

14. Creating a Collage

A collage is a great way for toddlers to express their creativity. They can make amazing birthday cards with photo collages, make wall-hanging art, or have fun tearing up paper and gluing it back together!

Paper, safety scissors, glue, and any other materials you want to use for the collage (such as tissue paper, construction paper, feathers, buttons, ribbons, etc.)

Let your child choose what they want to use for their collage. Then, help them cut out the paper or other materials into small pieces. Once they have a good pile of pieces, they can glue them down onto another piece of paper. You can help them with this if needed.

Creativity, imagination, fine motor skills, color recognition, pattern-making

15. Drawing with Chalk on the Sidewalk

If you live in a safe neighborhood, your children can display their artistic skills outside the home by drawing with chalk on the sidewalk or driveway. This activity is great for gross motor skills and allows you to teach your child about shapes, colors, and patterns.

Chalk in various colors

Let your child choose what color of chalk he or she wants to use. Then, help them draw a picture or make patterns on the sidewalk. You can also join in and create your own chalk masterpiece!

Educate children about different cultures where making art to decorate entrance gates and doorways is a tradition. Indians make rangoli, Chinese make a dragon or zodiac animal drawings, while in the Philippines, it is common to see people painting on bamboo mats called banig . In this way, you can introduce your toddlers to other cultures.

Creativity, imagination, gross motor skills, shapes, colors, pattern-making

A study on Chinese children found that organized extracurricular activities (EAs) are strongly associated with early reading, math, and social skills. Another study indicated that the involvement of parents in preschool children’s learning activities at home during the COVID-19 pandemic was beneficial to kids’ learning behavior and emotional health. 

These studies seem to suggest that any activity that encourages learning, socialization, and creativity would benefit our little ones and shape them into more confident, woke, and aware individuals. 

Some benefits of educational activities for 3-year-olds are:

• They help develop cognitive skills, including problem-solving, memory, and attention span.
• EAs also nurture social skills such as cooperation, empathy, and communication.
• These activities can also boost self-esteem and confidence in children.
• Fun and educational activities are also great for developing gross and fine motor skills.

So go ahead and try out some educational activities with your 3-year-old today! You might just be surprised at how much they enjoy it—and how much they learn from it too.

Explore more online educational resources for kids to aid their learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to choose a good educational activity for my 3 year old.

When choosing an activity for your 3-year-old, it is important to consider their interests, abilities, and attention span. You also want to ensure the activity is developmentally appropriate and safe. If you are unsure whether an activity is appropriate for your child, you can always consult their pediatrician or a child development expert.

How can I get my toddler to sit still and focus on an activity?

This can be a challenge for many parents! One tip is to try to find activities that your child is interested in and that they enjoy doing. Also, make sure you provide plenty of breaks during the activity so that your child doesn’t become overwhelmed or frustrated. Finally, praise your child when they display good behavior so that they know that you are pleased with their efforts.

How to help my toddler express their creativity?

There are many ways in which you can help your toddler express their creativity. One way is to provide plenty of opportunities for them to explore different materials and mediums, such as crayons, paint, clay, etc. You can also encourage them to sing, dance, or act out stories. And finally, make sure to praise their efforts and creativity, no matter what the outcome may be.

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Parent Resources for Learning > Core Skills > 7 Play-Based Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

7 Play-Based Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

by Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos | Aug 10, 2023 | Core Skills

Pop quiz: What’s a better way to get a 3-year-old to learn, pop quizzes or playtime? 

If you guessed playtime, you’re right! Play-based learning activities for 3-year-olds help them develop the skills they need for school and life by tapping into their natural love of play . It’s a lot easier to get a toddler to play a learning game than to sit down and study—plus, they’ll actually learn more!

The Short Cut

• Learning activities for 3-year-olds can help them develop Core Skills , Creativity , Critical Thinking , and the other 5 C’s that help them thrive
• Play-based learning activities work well because kids learn more when they’re doing something they’re interested in
• Many of the best activities are simple and use everyday items from around the house

We’ve put together instructions for seven of our favorite play-based learning activities for 3-year-olds, plus some general tips, to get you started.

Why Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds Work

Three-year-olds have a lot of energy, and they’re often eager to have new experiences. You can take advantage of their natural Curiosity (one of the 5 C’s) to help them learn valuable skills and see where they are in reaching their developmental milestones .

When kids do an activity they’re interested in, their brains literally light up on researchers’ scans. They learn more and retain more of what they learn, including important abilities.

For instance, hands-on activities —in which your child molds, cuts, sticks, sorts, or manipulates objects—help them develop motor skills. They also help them learn to follow directions for precision and accuracy, improving their Critical Thinking. Similarly, activities like putting puzzles together and playing with building blocks help develop reasoning skills and Creativity (another of the 5 C’s).

All of these abilities will help them as they get older and start working on more complex skills like writing and tying shoelaces.

The first six years of a child’s life are a critical time for brain development. The things they learn in this period help them perform well in school, excel in work, build healthy relationships, and live happy, fulfilling lives.

How Should I Teach My 3-Year-Old?

Keep It Simple

Parents sometimes think early learners need an elaborate game or flashy toy to hold their attention. But three-year-olds are fascinated by lots of simple things—different colors and shapes , how these colors change when you mix them (e.g., red and blue make purple), kicking a ball, storybooks about dinosaurs, baking cookies, and so on.

You don’t need anything complicated to create engaging learning activities for 3-year-olds. In fact, you’ll often be more successful if you keep it simple and use everyday items you already have.

Allow for Creativity

Life is full of right answers for 3-year-olds (and a lot of them, like “Can I hit someone when I’m mad?” are important!). But focusing on process over the finished product when you’re playing helps kids maintain their natural Creativity. If they decide to paint a blue dog, that’s OK! And if they choose to create a 10-legged cat, that’s great too. 

Give them time to play with no “right answers” to strengthen this important skill.

Be Flexible and Patient

Not every activity you try is going to be a hit with your kids. That’s OK!

At this age, your child is learning who they are and what they’re comfortable with. Exploring their likes and dislikes (which can change quickly!) is part of their development.

7 Top Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

1. number hunt.

What You’ll Need

• A set of fun items—from teddy bears to building blocks to balls, anything goes!
• Hide the items around a room
• Ask your three-year-old to find a set number of an item or a group of items (for example, ask them to find one teddy, two socks, and three balls)
• If this is too easy and they lose interest, try turning it into a race against the clock (can they find the items in just one minute?)
• If they find the game a little tricky, ask your child to search for one item at a time (e.g., one teddy, and then one sock, and then one ball) and progress from there

We love this activity because it helps develop working memory and numeracy, important areas of both Critical Thinking and Core Skills.

2. Pasta Necklaces

• Dry, uncooked cylindrical pasta
• Sealable plastic bags
• Food coloring
• A cotton thread or string (you can also use an old shoelace)
• Paper towel
• Beads (optional)
• Place the pasta into the plastic bags, then add a few drops of food coloring to each bag
• After adding the coloring, seal each bag and let your kids give it a good shake
• Line the trays with paper towels, pour the colored pasta on top, and allow it to dry
• While the pasta dries, cut the string so it’s the right length to make a necklace for your child and tie a knot on one end
• Once the pasta is dry, your child can slide the pasta (and beads if you use them) onto the string to make a necklace. When they reach the end of the string, tie the two sides together and you’re done!

This is a fun way to help your child practice counting (“How many pieces of pasta are you adding?”), develop fine motor skills, and explore Creativity.

3. Trace Yourself

• Have your child place part of their body (like their hand) on a sheet of paper
• Show them how to trace around it using a crayon
• Let them take over tracing and finish
• Encourage them to decorate their tracing however they’d like—maybe their hand needs eyes and a mouth!
• The simplest body part to start with is your child’s hands. Once your child has mastered tracing out their hands, they can progress to their feet.
• For even more fun, use a very large piece of paper and trace your child’s whole body. They can then add features and clothes.

This activity requires little prep and can be great for an easy afternoon when you’re in the mood for low mess levels. And it’s an excellent way to help your child practice their fine motor skills!

4. Make an Ocean

• HOMER Sail the Sea printable coloring page
• Crayons, markers, or colored pens
• Help your child color in the printable and discover the interesting creatures that live in our seas
• As your child colors, point out the letters and say their names, the sounds they make, and creature names that start with them (“S” makes a “sssss” sound, for “seahorse”)
• Try to get your child to make the letter sounds too
• Lean into process over perfection. The goal is to introduce your child to letters, sounds, names, and the links between them—if all they want to do is say “sssssss” and color, they’re still learning!
• To make things even more fun, give the creatures silly names and make up stories about them

This is a great activity for developing Core Skills like letter-sound recognition and fine motor skills!

5. Build a City

• Building blocks
• Get out the blocks and start making things, giving each building a name (“This is a candy store. This is an apartment building. This is a playground.”)
• Invite your child to name their own creations as they build alongside you
• If they’re enjoying the game, ask them to copy buildings you’ve made (“This is a candy store. Can you make one too?”)

This quick, simple activity helps develop Critical Thinking (copying your buildings), Core Skills (fine motor skills), and Creativity, all at once!

6. Watch It Grow

• HOMER printable seed growth tracker
• Crayons or pencils
• Large jar (glass or clear plastic)
• Fast-growing seeds (e.g. peas or beans)
• Paper towels
• An old milk or juice carton
• A ruler or measuring tape
• Ask your child to fill the jar with paper towels, then pour water onto the paper towels until they’re slightly damp
• “Plant” the seeds in the damp towels, positioning them close to the jar’s edge so you can watch them grow
• Use the printable to decorate the “watering can” (the milk or juice carton) and add a tag with the plant’s name
• Each day, make a fun moment of checking the jar and asking your child to note any changes you can track in the field notes (“Oh! We finished breakfast! Time to check the jar!”)
• If the paper towels dry out, add water

This activity introduces kids to how plants grow, stoking their Curiosity (another of the 5 C’s) as they explore the way the seed changes day by day!

7. Create Your Own Color Hunt

• Five objects that match each color of crayon, located in or around the house
• Optional: HOMER Make a Color Hunt printable
• Draw a square in the center of a piece of paper (or use the optional Make a Color Hunt printable)
• After drawing the square, use just one color to color it in
• Hand your child the paper and ask them to find five items in or around the house that have the same color
• For kids who aren’t counting yet , you can place items in a bucket or box and ask them to find all the items inside that match the color on the paper

This is a great activity to help with sorting, learning colors, and counting!

Continue the Adventures with Begin!

There are lots of ways to help your child stay entertained, engaged, and learning at home! These activities should help your 3-year-old develop a wide range of important skills.

And if you need more, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Sign up for our emails or check out our award-winning products, from kid-safe learning apps to hands-on activity kits , or try our Early Learner Bundle to see how it all comes together to give your child their best start to achieving their fullest potential.

Jody has a Ph.D. in Developmental Science and more than a decade of experience in the children’s media and early learning space.

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Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos

Chief Learning Officer at Begin

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20 Great Games for 3-Year-Olds

Searching for games for 3-year-olds that are equal parts delightful and developmental? We’ve got you covered. Read on for our top picks! Looking for games for 3-year-olds that will entertain and educate all at once?

We’re here to help.

Playing games is vital for children’s development , helping those little brains and bodies develop in all sorts of ways.

From promoting creative thinking and problem-solving to helping to cultivate social skills, games are more than just a way to pass the time.

In fact, play is such a big deal that it’s recognized by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights as a right of every child.

We’ve put together a list of games of all types that are perfect for the transition out of toddlerdom.

Ready to dive in?

How do I entertain my 3-year-old at home?

How long should a 3-year-old play alone, what game can a 3-year-old play, best games for 3-year-olds, board games for 3-year-olds.

We get it — lives get busy. And finding the time to put together a smorgasbord of activities for 3-year-olds can be a challenge.

Peanut’s here to help.

While all kids develop at their own pace, here’s some of what your little adventurer might be up to right now so that you can find activities that are a good fit.

They’re likely able to:

• Run and jump, and walk upstairs
• Stand on their tip-toes
• Ride a tricycle
• Stack blocks
• Draw straight lines and copy a circle
• Dress and undress themselves
• Name colors
• Know their name
• Chat in short sentences
• Remember simple rhymes and songs
• Know the difference between big and small

They’re also beginning to share and play with others.

Keeping this all in mind can help you navigate what might be appropriate for them at this age.

There’s a lot of ideas here for ways to play with your toddler, but some of these can also be great ways for your toddler to be entertained solo while you get something done nearby.

By 3-years-old , they’re getting better and better at playing on their own, so you can probably get at least ten free minutes out of these fun ideas.

And in fact, many experts believe that it’s something that should be encouraged.

You may have heard about the benefits of independent play for young children (basically, playing alone).

It can help stimulate their imaginations, encourage them to problem solve, and teach them patience.

And even if they’re playing on their own, it’s vital that they are supervised at this age.

Sure, you can work on your laptop or make lunch while they’re hard at play, but make sure you can always see them and hear them.

Here’s a list of our favorite games of all shapes and sizes for kids to play solo or as a group.

Many of these games can be hot favorites at birthday parties .

1. Musical statues

Play music for them to dance to. Tell them that when the music stops, they have to stand as still as a statue until it starts playing again.

You can choose to make this game competitive by getting them to sit out if they move when they’re not supposed to.

The last child standing is the winner.

But just dancing and stopping with the music is also fun.

Mama’s choice!

2. Kids karaoke

Little kids love singing and dancing.

And all you have to do to make karaoke age-appropriate is get everyone to join in all at once!

Teach them a simple song.

Putting easy actions to the words goes a long way.

3. Duck, duck, goose

By 3 years old, they may just be ready for this classic game.

Get them to sit in a circle.

Whoever is “on” (possibly you to begin with) travels around the outside of the circle, patting each child gently on the head, saying “duck.”

When that gentle tap is accompanied by a “goose” rather than a “duck,” things get exciting.

The goose has to chase the person who’s “on” around the circle.

And the person who’s “on” has to try and sit in the place of the goose before they catch them.

4. Hide-and-seek

For little ones, mark off a small area that they’re allowed to hide within.

It may help if a grown-up is the seeker to take the pressure off.

Remember to compliment their brilliant hiding places!

5. “Simon says…”

This is another classic that you may have played as a child yourself.

“Simon says… touch your toes.”

And everyone needs to touch their toes.

“Simon says… wiggle your ears.”

And everyone needs to wiggle their ears.

“Pat your head.”

Simon didn’t say that.

So this time, don’t copy!

6. Pass the present

Wrap up a prize in multiple layers of wrapping paper.

Between each layer, place a little prize (so that everyone gets something).

Play music and pass the present around the circle.

When the music stops, whoever is holding the present can unwrap a layer.

And if the idea of passing the present is a bit much, passing a balloon or a ball to get used to the idea is a great place to start.

7. What’s the time, Mr. Wolf?

Kids line up behind a line and you stand apart with your back to them.

They yell, “What’s the time, Mr. Wolf?”

You say a time, like “It’s three o’clock.”

If it’s three o’clock, they should take three steps toward you.

Five o’ clock, five steps.

But if you respond, “Lunch time!” they have to run back to safety before you can catch them.

8. Pin the tail on the donkey

This one never gets old.

All you need is a large picture of a donkey without a tail.

Blindfolded, they need to try and stick a tail in the right place.

Because they’re still so little, it’s best to guide them there when they have their eyes closed to make them feel as safe as possible.

9. Bubble blowing

This is a really simple way to have an incredibly good time.

Blow bubbles and see how many they can pop!

You can also teach them to blow bubbles themselves.

10. Treasure hunt

For 3-year-olds, you can make this one super simple!

Hide some prizes around your garden or house and unleash the toddlers!

Just make sure there’s a prize for everyone to avoid tears.

Ready to kickstart a lifelong love of family funtime?

Board games are a great way to do so.

And there are so many options that are perfect for your thriving 3-year-old.

11. Elefun and Friends

This adorable elephant plays music while it blows butterflies out of its trunk for kids to chase.

You can get it here .

12. Banana Blast

Your toddler’s job is to pull bananas from the trees until the monkey jumps.

This game comes with a fun 24-piece puzzle.

This can be a fun one for independent play.

Here’s where you find it.

13. Candy Land

This popular game allows little travelers to adventure along a delicious path to the Candy Castle.

It’s a great intro to quest games.

Get Candy Land here!

14. Count Your Chickens

This is a great game for encouraging collaboration.

Players have to work together to help Mother Hen bring her chicks back to the coop.

Here’s where you can get a copy of this game.

15. Dominoes

If you spent your childhood delighting in the mechanics of your domino set, you might want to pass that love on to your kids.

It’s a very colorful way to introduce your kids to STEM concepts.

This is another great one for some solo playtime.

Check out this Large Dominoes Set.

16. Let’s Feed the Very Hungry Caterpillar

Based on the classic book by Eric Carle, this exciting board game has little players collecting cards to transform the caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly.

If you’re looking for card games for 3-year-olds, this is a great introduction.

Here’s where you can find it.

17. Bingo Games for Kids

If you want to get the whole family involved, try this comprehensive bingo set that will help your little one recognize words and pictures.

Get it here.

18. Colorama

This fun game is a great way for your toddler to develop their knowledge of shapes and colors — and have a whole lot of fun while doing so.

Get matching here.

19. Lucky Ducks

This adorable game is both “wacky” and “quacky” — and a great way to learn colors.

Meet your lucky ducks here.

20. Feed the Woozle

This award-winning game is as delightful as it is educational.

Helping with everything from language development to balance, feeding a woozle is a great way to make friends and learn new skills.

You can get yours here.

If you’re looking for more inspiration about games for 3-year-olds, or to share your great ideas with others, head over to the Peanut community .

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25 Games for 3 Year Olds

Amy Smith | Parenting | Reviewed by: Rose Smith Updated: March 12, 2024 | Published: March 12, 2024 May 9, 2022

It is never too early to start teaching your child important life skills. One way to do this is by playing educational games with them. There are many different types of games that can help teach three-year-olds essential skills . Here are 25 of the best ones to get started with.

Table of Contents

Best Games for 3 Year Olds

1. alphabet game.

This is a great game for helping your little one learn the letters and sounds of the alphabet. You can play this game in several different ways, including by having them name all of the letters in order or by spelling simple words with magnetic letters on a cookie sheet.

2. Memory Matching Games

These games are perfect for helping children develop their memory skills as well as their problem-solving abilities. There are many different types available, from traditional playing cards to more modern apps and websites that let you create your custom deck.

3. Shape Sorting Games

Sorting shapes into categories is an important skill for young children to master, and many fun shape sorting games will help them do this. Some of these games require the use of actual shapes, while others are played on a computer or tablet and use colorful graphics instead.

4. Block Building Games

Numerous studies have shown that playing with blocks can help children develop important math and engineering skills as well as hand-eye coordination. There are many different types of block-building games to choose from, including traditional wooden blocks and digital apps that let you create elaborate structures using virtual blocks on your screen.

5. Board Games

Board games are fun for the whole family, and they provide an excellent opportunity to practice important social skills like taking turns and following rules. If you are looking for new board game ideas, there are many modern versions available that feature popular characters from movies and TV shows.

6. Card Games

Card games are another great option for family game night, and they can be used to teach children a variety of skills such as counting, matching, and probability. Many classic card games like Go Fish and War can be easily learned by young children, but there are also many new and exciting card games being released all the time.

7. Dice Games

Dice games are perfect for teaching kids about numbers and chance. They can also be a lot of fun to play, especially when you add in some friendly competition. Some popular dice games that are great for kids include Snakes and Ladders, Yahtzee, and Bunco.

8. Word Games

Word games are a great way to help teach children how to spell, as well as improve their vocabulary and reading comprehension. There are many different types of word games available, including crossword puzzles, Boggle, and Scrabble.

9. Tangram Games

Tangrams are a type of puzzle that consists of various geometric shapes that need to be arranged into a specific pattern or image by only moving the pieces around without any rearranging or cutting. These games can help children develop important spatial reasoning skills while having fun at the same time.

10. Trivia Games

Trivia games are always popular with kids because they allow them to show off what they know in a fun way. These games come in all different formats, from traditional board games like Trivial Pursuit to digital apps that let you customize the questions to fit your child’s interests and skill level.

11. Music Games

Playing music games is a great way to encourage kids to be creative and use their imaginations. These games can also help teach children about rhythm, melody, and other musical concepts. There are many different types of music games available, including instruments that make a sound as well as those that are played on a computer or tablet.

12. Art Games

Art games are perfect for kids who love to be creative and express themselves through art. These games can help teach children about color, composition, and other important artistic concepts. There are many different types of art games available, from those that let you paint or draw to those that let you sculpt or build.

13. Memory Games

Memory games are a great way to help improve your child’s memory and concentration skills. These games can be played with a traditional deck of cards or on a computer or tablet. There are many different ways to play memory games, so you can easily find one that is appropriate for your child’s age and skill level.

14. Logic Games

Logic games are a great way to help children learn how to think critically and solve problems. These games often take the form of puzzles, and they can be played on a computer or tablet as well as with physical pieces. Some popular logic games include Sudoku, KenKen, and Hidato.

15. Strategy Games

Strategy games are perfect for older kids and teens who love to exercise their minds. These games can help teach children about planning, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Some popular strategy games include chess, Risk, Codenames, and Settlers of Catan.

16. Virtual Reality Games

Virtual reality (VR) games are a lot of fun because they let you feel like you are actually in the game world. Many VR games involve action or adventure, but some focus on other topics such as science or history. The great thing about VR gaming is that it is ideal for all ages and skill levels – even young children can enjoy these types of games with the right equipment!

17. Multiplayer Games

Some kids love playing with others and being social, which is why multiplayer games are so popular among children and teens alike. These types of games can be played online against other players worldwide, locally on the same device, or even in person at a party or other gathering. Some examples of multiplayer games include Words with Friends and UNO! Card Game, Monopoly Social Edition Board Game, Exploding Kittens Card Game, Mario Party Board Game, and The Jackbox Party Pack.

18. Puzzle Games

Puzzle games are great for all ages and skill levels, making them perfect for families to play together. These games can take many forms, including board games like Jenga, word puzzles like Scrabble, logic puzzles like Sudoku, or even digital apps that feature a variety of different types of puzzles. You can find puzzle games at most stores that sell toys or video games.

19. Action Games

Action games are great for kids who love fast-paced thrills and excitement. These types of games often involve solving problems under pressure or overcoming challenges by using quick reflexes and good timing. Many action games involve some type of fantasy element as well, such as dragons or magic spells. Some popular examples include the Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros., and Sonic the Hedgehog series.

20. Sports Games

Sports games are perfect for kids who love to be active and compete against others. These types of games can be played alone or with others, and they often involve physical activity as well as mental skills such as strategy and tactics. Some popular sports games include football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and tennis.

21. Animal Games

Animal games are a lot of fun for kids who love animals or who are interested in learning about different types of animals. These types of games can teach children about animal behavior, habitat, diet, and other important topics. There are many different types of animal games available, from digital apps to board games to crafts and activities.

22. Edutainment Games

If you are looking for educational games that also provide fun and entertainment, then edutainment games may be a good choice. These types of games often have an educational focus and include content that teaches kids about a variety of topics. Some popular examples of edutainment games are BrainPop Jr., The Magic School Bus Science Chapter Book series, National Geographic Kids Apps, and the Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot Activity Set.

23. Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

Role-playing games (RPGs) can be a lot of fun for older kids and teens who love to pretend or act out different scenarios. In these types of games, players take on specific roles such as knights or wizards and participate in quests or missions. These games often involve combat, puzzles, and other types of challenges. Some popular examples of RPGs include the Final Fantasy series, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor game, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim video game.

24. Fantasy Games

If your child loves imagination and adventure, then fantasy games may be a good choice for them. In these types of games, players take on the role of someone like a knight, wizard, warrior princess – or even an animal! Many fantasy games feature imaginary worlds that are filled with magic spells and mythical creatures such as dragons and unicorns. Some popular examples include the Legend of Zelda series, World at Arms: Wage War for Your Nation!, Dungeons & Dragons Roleplaying Game, and the Final Fantasy XIII video game.

25. Creative Games

Creative games are a great choice for kids who love to be creative and express themselves. These types of games often involve activities that allow children to create something unique, such as an art project or story. Some examples of creative games include the Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Set, Scratch Art Paper, coloring books, and the Lego Creator series.​

Final Words

Playing games is a great way for children to have fun and learn at the same time. The 25 types of games that we’ve listed here provide a variety of different opportunities for kids to explore their interests and develop new skills. Whether your child loves action, sports, animals, puzzles, or creativity, there is sure to be a game that appeals to them. We hope you will find this list helpful as you look for new games to enjoy with your family. What are your favorite games to play together? Let us know in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions – Games for Three-Year-Olds

How can i help my 3-year-old child develop mentally.

There are many different ways to help your child develop physically, mentally, and emotionally. One way is to provide opportunities for them to play and explore. This can be done by making sure there are a variety of toys and materials available for them to use, as well as time for free play both indoors and outdoors. It is also important to provide a loving and supportive environment, where your child feels safe to express themselves. You can also help your child develop by modeling positive behavior, reading together, singing songs, and spending time talking and listening to them.

What are some good indoor activities for 3-year-olds?

Some good indoor activities for 3-year-olds include playing with toys, drawing with crayons or markers, painting with watercolors, doing puzzles, building with blocks, and pretending with dolls. These types of activities help kids develop fine motor skills, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. It is also important to provide opportunities for physical activity indoors, such as dancing to music or playing catch.

What are some easy crafts for 3-year-olds?

Some easy crafts for 3-year-olds include painting with washable paint, drawing with crayons or markers, making collages with construction paper, and modeling clay. These activities help kids develop fine motor skills, color recognition, and creative thinking. It is also important to provide adult supervision and assistance as needed, as well as age-appropriate crafting materials.

How do I entertain my 3-year-old at home?

There are many different ways to entertain your 3-year-old at home. One way is to provide opportunities for them to play and explore. This can be done by making sure there are a variety of toys and materials available for them to use, as well as time for free play both indoors and outdoors. It is also important to provide a loving and supportive environment, where your child feels safe to express themselves. You can also entertain your child by reading books together, singing songs, playing games, and spending time talking and listening to them.

What do 3-year-olds like to play?

There is no one answer to this question, as children can have very different interests and likes at the age of 3. Some popular activities for this age group include playing with toys, building with blocks, drawing or painting, and pretending with dolls or stuffed animals. It is also important to provide plenty of opportunities for physical activity both indoors and outdoors. Many 3-year-olds also enjoy watching movies or television shows that are developmentally appropriate.

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Amy, an award-winning journalist with a Master's in Journalism from Columbia University, has excelled for over twelve years, specializing in parenting, pregnancy, nursing, fashion, and health.

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15 BOARD GAMES FOR 3 YEAR OLDS THAT ARE FUN AND EDUCATIONAL

Are you in search of some entertaining and educational board games that will have your little ones giggling, learning, and begging for more? Board games are not just cardboard and pieces; they’re a passport to fun-filled and educational adventures! As the parents, aunts, uncles, and caregivers of 3 year olds, we know that keeping these pint-sized explorers entertained and engaged can be quite a feat. But fear not! Here are the best board games for 3 year olds!

This post contains partner links for various products.

1. THE LADYBUG GAME

• HELP THE LADYBUGS FIND THEIR WAY HOME! Children lead their Ladybug home to the...
• CHILD’S PERFECT FIRST BOARD GAME - SUPPORTS READING AND COUNTING! The...
• INVENTED BY A FIRST GRADER! Let it inspire your child! Makes a wonderful...

The Ladybug Game is a perfect board game for 3 year olds due to its simplicity and educational value. The game introduces young children to basic math concepts in a fun and engaging way! Additionally, The Lady Bug Game fosters essential early skills like taking turns, following rules, and making decisions. This game was actually invented by a first grader, so it is made for kids by a kid! The colorful board and adorable ladybug pieces make it visually appealing, and the cooperative nature of the game encourages social interaction and teamwork, making it an ideal choice for children aged three years and older.

2. MONKEY AROUND

• GET READY TO MOVE: A wonderful first board game for kids that was created...
• LETS MOVE TOGETHER: From hugs to high fives to simple skills like balancing,...
• LEARNING AND GROWING: Monkey Around improves gross motor skill development,...

Monkey Around is an active board game that is perfect for energetic 3 year olds. The game promotes physical activity, creativity, and social interaction. It’s a fun way to get young children moving and engaged in cooperative play. 

This game is super simple and easy to play with a young kid. It includes a deck of activity cards that encourage kids to perform various physical tasks, such as hopping like a bunny, holding hands and spinning, or waddling like a penguin. These activities help develop motor skills and keep little ones active. The cooperative nature of the Monkey Around develops teamwork skills and is a perfect developmental game for 3 year olds.

3. EYE FOUND IT: BUSY TOWN

• What you get - The game includes 1 game board, 4 movers, 4 mover bases, 1...
• Fun play experience - Eye Found It is a ton of fun for 2-4 players and makes a...
• Clear instructions - The game is easy to learn with clear instructions, so you...

Looking for a more low-key and less active board game to play with your young kid? Eye Found It: Busy Town is a perfect choice because it combines the joy of exploration with critical observational skills. This game features a long game board with a bustling town filled with colorful illustrations. This immersive game is a great way to get your 3 year old involved in an engaging and educational activity. All players will work together to find specific items on the giant game board. So, your little tyke will learn teamwork and cooperation through this exciting game. Additionally, Eye Found It: Busy Town helps kids with visual perception, attention to detail, and vocabulary as kids search for objects and describe what they see. 

4. CHUTES AND LADDERS: DISNEY PRINCESS EDITION

• DISNEY PRINCESS THEMED BOARD GAME: Play with Disney Princess favorite characters...
• 4 CUSTOMIZABLE PRINCESS HEART PAWNS: Includes 12 Princess Affinity Stickers...
• FANTASTICAL AND VIBRANT GAMEBOARD: It's a magical climbing and sliding adventure...

Combining the classic Chutes and Ladders and iconic Disney princesses, Chutes and Ladders: Disney Princess Edition is one of the best games for 3 year olds. This game is perfect for young children because it introduces them to counting, number recognition, and taking turns in a familiar and beloved Disney setting. Players will navigate the game board with a spinner, climbing ladders and sliding down chutes while encountering their favorite Disney Princesses along the way! The game provides an interactive and enjoyable experience for preschoolers, making it for any young kid who loves Disney Princesses.

Looking for more Disney games? Check out our ultimate list of Disney-themed board games .

5. PETE THE CAT: MISSING CUPCAKES

• Pete the Cat Adventure: Embark on an exciting adventure with the Pete the Cat...
• Preschool-Friendly Board Game: Tailored for preschoolers aged 3 and above, this...
• No Reading Required: Enjoy hassle-free gameplay as no reading is required for...

Pete the Cat: Missing Cupcakes is an enjoyable kids game, especially if your little tyke is a fan of the beloved children’s book character Pete the Cat. I mean… who isn’t? This game is great for young children because it combines storytelling with a simple board game format. Players join Pete the Cat on an adventure to find his missing cupcakes while singing songs, acting out physical activities, and identifying animals, foods, and words. The game involves spinning a spinner and moving colorful playing pieces around the board to collect cupcakes. To play Pete the Cat Missing Cupcakes, you’ll need a combination of luck, cooperation, and memory, so it has excellent replay value!

6. FIRST ORCHARD

• These classic toddler games have been enjoyed by families for over 30 years. The...
• Develop social skills such as taking turns and following directions while...
• These cooperative board games allow players to work together as a team to roll...

One of the best board games to introduce to your toddler is First Orchard by HABA . HABA is a popular games company renowned for creating simple kid’s games with educational benefits. This cooperative game is perfect for young children as it fosters teamwork, color recognition, and basic counting skills. The game is set in an orchard with multi-colored and easy-to-grasp fruit pieces. Players take turns rolling a color-coded die and picking a fruit of the corresponding color to add to a shared basket. The goal is to collect all the fruit before the raven reaches the orchard!

7. HOOT OWL HOOT!

• HURRY LITTLE OWLS: In this color coordinated matching game, players cooperate to...
• LEARNING AND GROWING: Kids learn simple strategy, following directions & taking...
• BENEFITS: Cooperative games cultivate emotional development, shared decision...

If you want a board game for your 3 year old that encourages cooperative play, basic color recognition, and even some strategic thinking, Hoot Owl Hoot! is an excellent pick! This game is officially rated for kids 4 and up, so this is a good game for a more advanced 3 year old. In this game, players work together to help the owls return to their nest before sunrise. The game board features a path of colored spaces, and players move owls along the path by drawing color cards. And if you draw a sun card, you’re a step closer to daylight! Hoot Owl Hoot! also introduces the concept of turn-taking, which is important for early social development. Note that although this game is rated for children aged 4 to 8, this is definitely something your 3 year old can join in on!

8. CANDYLAND

• CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Candy Land when you were a kid?...
• RACE TO THE CASTLE: Players encounter all kinds of "delicious" surprises as they...
• NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Candy Land can be a great...

Candyland is an excellent choice for young children because of its simplicity and colorful, enticing design. The game is easy to play, involving a colorful game board with a winding path of sweets and candy-themed characters. Kids draw colored cards to advance along the path, matching the colors to move their pieces. As the players advance, they’ll find all sorts of yummy surprises in a race to King Kandy’s castle! Candyland is perfect for teaching colors, taking turns, and basic counting, making it an educational and fun experience for toddlers and preschoolers.

9. DON’T SPILL THE BEANS

• BEAN-BALANCING KIDS GAME: This Don't Spill the Beans game is the suspenseful...
• NO READING REQUIRED GAME: Players take turns placing one of their beans in the...
• FUN, COLORFUL PIECES: This edition of the Don't Spill the Beans kids board game...

Looking for a fun, educational, and active game for your kid? Check out Don’t Spill the Beans! It’s perfect for young children as it helps with hand-eye coordination and counting abilities. This game is easy to understand but sufficiently challenging to master: All players need to do is take turns placing one bean at a time into a pot-shaped container. The catch? Don’t let the container tip over! The first player to get rid of all their beans wins the game! This simple yet engaging gameplay is a great way for kids to learn balance and counting in a hands-on and entertaining way.

10. YETI IN MY SPAGHETTI

• BOARD GAMES FOR KIDS: The suspense builds as you remove noodle strands from the...
• KIDS GAMES 4-8: Yeti is the star of the show in this kids’ board game. Add it...
• AWARD-WINNING GAME: Yeti in My Spaghetti game for kids 4-6 is oodles of noodly...

A fun and appropriate board game for 3 year olds, Yeti in My Spaghetti can help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. The game is played by arranging plastic noodles on top of a bowl, and a toy yeti figure is placed on the noodles. What fun! Then, players take turns removing one noodle at a time, trying to keep the yeti from falling into the bowl. The first person to make the Yeti drop is the loser. Yet in My Spaghetti is not only a top-pick for kids, but it’s also an award-winning game – and it’s easy to see why!

11. GUESS IN 10 JUNIOR

• EXCITING CARD GAME OF QUESTIONS: Use the Guider Tiles to ask up to 10 questions...
• LEARN THROUGH PLAY: Ages 3 to 6 is a period of rapid brain development for kids!...
• WHAT YOU GET: One game set includes 35 Game Cards, 10 Guider Tiles and a handy...

Guess in 10 is a popular guessing game that the whole family can get involved in! The junior edition is perfect for kids 3 years and older. While this board game might seem simple, it promotes critical thinking, vocabulary, and deductive reasoning! To play this game, simply pick a card. Then, the other player(s) can ask up to 10 yes-or-no questions to guess the item on the card. This game not only enhances cognitive skills but also encourages social interaction. The best part about Guess in 10 Junior is that you can pick a specific board game that best aligns with your 3 year old’s interests. From animals and dinosaurs to sports and countries, there are enough boards to keep your toddler occupied with enough new words to keep them entertained and stimulated!

12. BARREL OF MONKEYS

• Classic Skill Game
• Original Design

An absolute classic, Barrel of Monkeys is a fun and simple game that is sure to keep your toddler occupied! The game consists of a barrel filled with colorful plastic monkeys that can be interlinked. This will help your kid with their fine motor skills and encourage creativity. To play, children take one monkey from the pile and attempt to link it with others, forming a long chain. The goal? Create the longest chain possible. That’s it! Plus, since Barrel of Monkeys can be played alone or with friends, this is the perfect game to play at home and at gatherings.

13. COUNT YOUR CHICKENS

• FARM FUN: The baby chicks have flown the coop and Mama Hen needs help to bring...
• COOPERATIVE COUNTING: Remove competitive stress, empower young learners and...
• EDUCATIONAL GAME: Cooperative games cultivate emotional development, shared...

Count Your Chickens is a wonderful board game designed for younger who love animals. This simple interactive game will have your toddler recognizing numbers and counting at a basic level while also promoting teamwork and social skills. The objective of this game? Help Mother Hen gather her chicks and bring them back to the coop! This is a cooperative board game for 3 year olds, so children can work together to reach a common goal, a valuable concept for young kids to learn. To play, players spin the spinner and move Mother Hen around the board to collect chicks, counting as they go.

14. DON’T BREAK THE ICE

• FUN KIDS GAME: This Don’t Break the Ice game is an exciting preschool game...
• INDOOR GAME FOR AGES 3+: The object of this game for kids is to keep Phillip the...
• FAMILY GAMES FOR KIDS: Get everyone together for family game night with the...

Don’t Break the Ice is an interactive game that you can play with your 3 year old. It helps improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and strategic thinking. It’s a simple yet engaging game that will certainly keep your little ones entertained while also teaching them important milestone skills. Playing is easy – simply set up a grid of plastic ice blocks and put the Phillip the Penguin figure on the top! Then, the players take turns removing one ice block at a time, trying not to let Phillip the Penguin fall through. The first person to make the penguin fall loses!

15. SHOPPING LIST

• Fun memory shopping game for 2 - 4 players
• Be the first to match your products and place them in your trolley or basket!
• Encourages matching and memory skills

Shopping List is a super simple board game that even 3 year olds can play! Like all the games on this list, this game offers both entertainment and educational value. It is perfect for young children because it helps develop key skills such as memory, matching, and observational abilities. Your child’s vocabulary will grow with the help of this game while also fostering healthy social interaction. Two birds with one stone! To play, each child selects a shopping cart and collects item cards that match their shopping list. The young ones will take turns flipping over cards and matching them with their list. The first to complete their shopping list wins, making it an engaging way for young kids to learn through a fun game.

HOW TO CHOOSE BOARD GAMES FOR 3 YEAR OLDS

When it comes to selecting board games for 3 year olds, the process should be just as much fun as the games themselves. These early years are a crucial time for development, and the right board game can play a pivotal role in nurturing those essential skills while ensuring a whole heap of fun! To choose the right board games for your 3 year old, consider the following factors:

• Age-appropriate : Start by looking for games explicitly designed for 3 year olds or younger. Most board games will have a recommended age range posted on the box, which is a great reference point. That said, if you have a precocious child, you could even get away with games designed for 4 year olds!
• Educational : Many board games for toddlers incorporate counting, color recognition, shape matching, and fine motor skills development into the gameplay. These board games are a great way to have fun while learning something new.
• Social interaction : Cooperative games, where players work together towards a common goal, can be a great choice for fostering teamwork and communication. These social skills can go a long way to be learned early in life.
• Replay value : Consider games that can be played multiple times without becoming boring. This is pretty easy at this age, as many younger kids love repetition! 
• Engaging : Whether it’s animals, vehicles, or favorite characters, a game with a captivating theme is more likely to hold their attention. A bright and colorful board game can go a long way as well.
• Safety : Of course, game pieces should be free from small parts that could be a choking hazard and made from non-toxic materials.
• Durability : Toddlers can be quite enthusiastic, so your game pieces might suffer some unavoidable wear and tear. So, look for games made from sturdy materials that can withstand a toddler’s grippy hands!
• Reviews : Don’t hesitate to seek advice from other parents, caregivers, or online reviews to discover which board games have been hits with other 3 year olds.
• Your child’s interests : Do they like animals, space, princesses, or shapes? Choosing a game that aligns with their current interests can make the board game even more fun.

Do you want some fun outdoor game recommendations to play with your kid? Check out our top list of lawn games !

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Parent Portfolio

40+ Board Games for 3 Year Olds: Learn, Play, and Have Family Fun!

Board games aren’t just play; they’re the building blocks of learning for your little ones! 

Our guide to board games for 3-year-olds is packed with options that turn giggles into growth, strategy into skills, and family time into lifelong memories. 

We’re here to help you sift through the top picks that promise to deliver fun and a feast of learning and development tailored to your toddler’s curious mind. 

So, get ready to roll the dice on learning, laughter, and much love! 🎲👪

40+ Board Games for 3 Year Olds

1. animal upon animal.

• Contains 29 wooden animals, 1 die with correlated symbols and an instruction booklet that comes in German, English, French and Dutch.
• Great kids games made from Beechwood with non toxic watr based stains
• Educational games for enhancing your child’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
• Playtime: 15 minutes
• Skills Learned: Dexterity
• Number of Players: 2-4 players
• Minimum Age: 4

Think of Jenga plus Safari animals. You and your child will take turns balancing different wooden animals on top of one another. The goal is to stack all animals from your provision and be the first one done. Honestly, I’m surprised there isn’t an adult version of this game.

2. Banana Blast

• This monkey is too greedy and wants all the bananas for himself
• Can you steal from him Roll the die to see how many bananas you can pick and try to collect as many as you can
• Be careful, one of the bananas will make Joe jump but it’s a different banana every time!
• Playtime: 10 minutes
• Skills Learned: Addition and subtraction
• Number of Players: 2-5 players

With a roll of a die, kids pick one or two bananas from the banana tree. However, players have a chance to gift or take a banana from other players. The game has a fun little surprise where the money can jump out. Whoever catches the monkey can add two bananas from each player. The player with the most bananas is, well, bananas.

3. Wonder Forge Richard Scarry’s Busytown, Eye Found It

• What you get – The game includes 1 game board, 4 movers, 4 mover bases, 1 spinner, 1 ferry tile, 10 magnifying glass tokens, 6 food tiles, 30 goldbug cards, 1 sand timer, and instructions
• Fun play experience – Eye Found It is a ton of fun for 2-4 players and makes a great gift for kids and families. It’s a cooperative game for preschoolers where you race across Busytown along a game board that’s more than 6 feet long
• Clear instructions – The game is easy to learn with clear instructions, so you can start playing right away!
• Playtime: Varies
• Skills Learned: Matching, Observation, Teamwork

Kids move around a six feet long game board (yes, six feet long), taking turns looking for specific items on the board. After a minute of searching, everyone gets to forward the number of spaces equal to the number of items found. It’s a win-win situation!

4. Candyland

• CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Candy Land when you were a kid? Introduce new generations to this sweet kids’ board game
• RACE TO THE CASTLE: Players encounter all kinds of “delicious” surprises as they move their cute gingerbread man pawn around the path in a race to the castle
• NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Candy Land can be a great game for kids who haven’t learned how to read yet
• Skills Learned: Color recognition, Matching 
• Minimum Age: 3

Hasbro has refreshed this classic sweet adventures board game has with new illustrations, but the gameplay hasn’t changed. Little ones take turns moving their gingerbread man around the board in a race to the candy land kingdom.

5. Chutes and Ladders

• CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing Chutes and Ladders when you were a kid. Introduce new generations to the classic gameplay of this kids’ board game for 2 to 4 players
• NO READING REQUIRED TO PLAY: For kids ages 3 and up, Chutes and Ladders can be a great game for kids who haven’t learned how to read yet
• CLASSIC UP AND DOWN GAME FOR PRESCHOOLERS: Spin the spinner and move the pawn up the ladders and down the chutes. Chutes and Ladders is a classic game that children enjoy playing over and over
• Skills Learned: Counting, Number recognition

Chutes and Ladders is another classic board game for 3 years olds. The goal is to get to the top with the help of ladders. However, watch out for the chute! Players can slide back down if they land on a chute. No reading required; just go ‘ole fun.

6. Color Go Fish Card Game

• COLOR GO FISH A new take on an old game involves fish-shaped cards and color matching, with bold colors like hot pink and chartreuse. A great first card game that is easy to play. Illustrated by Julia Gorton.
• For ages 3 and up.
• Cards are 3.25 x 4.5 inches. Cards are durable and easy to use.
• Skills Learned: Color recognition
• Number of Players:   2-4 players

This game mixes the card game’s simple rules of “Go Fish!” and uses colors instead. Some parents have concerns that colors are not base colors, such as red, blue, green, etc. Rather, the colors in this game are buttercup, jade, and apricot.

7. Colorama

• What you get – Colorama comes with 40 game pieces, 1 color die, 1 shape die, and instructions.
• Fun play experience – You can play a game in 30 minutes, and it’s perfect for 2-4 players ages 7 and up, which makes this a perfect gift for families who love to play games together
• Easy to understand instructions – High quality, easy to understand instructions make it possible to start playing right away.
• Playtime: 20 minutes
• Skills Learned: Matching, Shapes, Colors
• Number of Players: 1-6 players

Kids roll a color and a shape die to determine which colored shape a player needs to place on the board. For instance, a kid rolls a red color and a circle shape. They need to match a red circle piece to its place on the board. There is no score, and it’s not a race. The goal is for everyone to match the pieces to the board.

8. Count Your Chickens

• FARM FUN: The baby chicks have flown the coop and Mama Hen needs help to bring them back. Spin and count numbers to travel and collect chicks while working together. Gather all the chicks and everyone wins!
• COOPERATIVE COUNTING: Remove competitive stress, empower young learners and teach kids that playing together can be fun! A counting game to help kids learn at a young age how easy it is to cooperate!
• EDUCATIONAL GAME: Cooperative games cultivate emotional development, shared decision making, positive self esteem, creative problem solving and develop a sense of community in a non-stressful play environment.
• Skills Learned: Counting
• Minimum Age:  3

If you’re looking for a game where everyone works together and teaches, Count Your Chickens is a great pick. Players spin a spinner that indicates which square the mother hen moves to next. For each square they move, players collect the same amount into the chicken coop.

9. Create and Tell Me a Story Cards

• ANIMAL VILLAGE A Create a Story card set lets you join the animals in this village as they dance, sing, and play. Recurring characters, locations, and props encourage linking the cards in endless combinations for fresh, new stories every time it’s played. Use this beautifully illustrated visual card set by Stephanie Graegin to create your own stories! Can be played individually or in a group, make up your own way to play!
• PROVIDES GREAT INTERACTION, CREATIVE AND IMAGINATIVE PLAY! This playful collection involves recurring characters, locations, and props allowing the cards to be linked in endless combinations for fresh, new stories every time it is played.
• Cards are perfectly sized at 3.75 x 4.75 inches. 36 cards in the set. Instructions included.
• Skills Learned: Imagination, Storytelling
• Number of Players: 1+

These story cards allow parents to create unique stories every time they play. Parents make up a new part of the story based on the card drawn, leading to endless stories. Over time, kids can start to tell their own stories when playing independently.

10. Wonder Forge Disney Classic Characters Matching Game

• What you get – Disney Classic Matching Game comes with 72 tiles and instructions.
• Clear instructions – Easy to learn with a clear instruction manual. Learn to play in less than five minutes!
• Develops critical skills – this game helps preschoolers practice their focus, memory, and matching skills.
• Skills Learned: Matching

Lay all the cards facedown and take turns finding the match. Adding familiar Disney characters, such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy adds excitement to the game. This card game works well for families and allows solo play.

11. Don’t Break the Ice

• FUN KIDS GAME: This Don’t Break the Ice game is an exciting preschool game that has players tapping out ice blocks one by one, as they imagine helping Phillip the Penguin make a new igloo
• INDOOR GAME FOR AGES 3+: The object of this game for kids is to keep Phillip the Penguin on top of the ice, but as the game goes on, the ice blocks start falling. One wrong block and he’ll go ker-plop!
• FAMILY GAMES FOR KIDS: Get everyone together for family game night with the Don’t Break the Ice game. Players will be on the edge of their seats just waiting for the moment that the penguin falls through
• Playtime: 15  minutes
• Skills Learned: Strategy

In this game, players attempt to tap out blocks of ice with a small mallet. The goal is not to let the penguin fall through. This tabletop game will make the kids scream in excitement each time they successfully remove a block of ice.

12. Dragon’s Breath

• 2018 best kids game according to the Kinderspiel des Jahres jury, is Dragons Breath, also known as Funkelschatz. A daughter-father team, the authors Lena and Gunter Burkhardt combine a child-friendly story, a classic mechanism and intriguing material to a game adventure that captivates children time and again.
• Four young dragons and one dragon dad, try to get the most gems out of a ice column filled with them. Each round the young dragons will pick a gem color that they think will come out of the ice when the dad melts it.
• Once they have all picked the dad will pick up the top most ring, allowing some gems to fall off the tower to be collected by the young ones. There is also some holes in the board that if a gem falls in there, it goes to the dad and he may win.
• Skills Learned: Color matching
• Minimum Age: 5

This inventive game allows children to pretend to be dragons. Players act to melt an ice column by taking turns to remove rings. Any freed crystals that fall within a dragon’s color are up for grabs.

13. Elenfun and Friends

• FUN MUSIC AND SOUNDS: The motorized Elefun elephant begins the game with a trumpet call. Then it plays music throughout the game while it blows butterflies out of its long trunk
• INCLUDES BUTTERFLY NETS: In this lively and active game, kids can chase the butterflies that come out of the elephant’s 3 foot trunk. The game includes 20 colorful butterflies and 3 butterfly nets
• GET UP AND GET SILLY: This game gets kids up and about, running around in all different directions as they try to catch the most butterflies to win
• Skills Learned: Gross Motor skills
• Number of Players: 1-3 players

This motorized elephant (batteries required) shoots butterflies in the air—the game tasks kids to catch the falling butterflies with their nets. Kids will have a blast playing. Parents will have to cherish the laughter while they pick up the mess.

14. Feed the Woozle

• SILLY SNACKS: The Woozle loves to eat hairy pickles and fuzzy donuts. Can you help feed him 12 crazy treats before all the snacks are gone? A monstrous game of mixed up fun!
• GROWS WITH YOUR CHILDREN: Comes with three levels so it grows with your child. Kids ages 3 and up work together to help feed the Woozle. No reading required, so even the smallest can participate!
• LEARNING AND GROWING: Kids learn dexterity, fine motor skills, body awareness, and counting all while having fun and cooperating. Kids learn about taking turns and develop valuable social skills.
• Skills Learned: Dexterity, Fine motor skills

Kids take turns rolling a die to determine how many snacks to feed the Woozle. They’ll have fun trying to balance as many snacks on their spoon. I wish I can use the same strategy to make them finish their dinner.

15. First Orchard

• These classic toddler games have been enjoyed by families for over 30 years. The perfect first board game for 1-4 players ages 2 years and up.
• Develop social skills such as taking turns and following directions while reinforcing color recognition, quantities and counting by ones with these best-selling preschool games.
• These cooperative board games allow players to work together as a team to roll the dice and pick the matching fruit from the orchard before the raven makes it down the path to steal it all.
• Skills Learned: Color recognition, Counting
• Number of Players: 1-4 players
• Minimum Age: 2

Kids take turns harvesting specific fruits into their baskets. But, they better hurry! A raven slowly moves closer to their basket. Everyone wins when everyone gathers all the fruit.

16. Franke’s Food Truck Fiasco

• GAME AND BOOK COMBO: Bundle this award-winning board game with an adorable board book for hours of foodie fun and learning
• GAME INCLUDES: colorful game board, 1 Frankie squeezer, 20 food game pieces, 1 game spinner, 4 placemat player boards, and instruction guide
• HOW TO PLAY: Spin the spinner to place your order. Then use your Franke Squeezer to follow the directions on the space. The first player to deliver a five-course meal is the winner. NO READING REQUIRED
• Skills Learned: Practical shapes

Are you looking for the next Master Chef Junior? With this Educational Insights game, players use a spinner to place an order. The first player to deliver a five-course meal wins! Maybe this game is the beginning of your kids preparing their own.

17. Ravensburger Snail’s Pace Race

• Fun play experience – You can play a game in 15 minutes, and it’s perfect for 2-6 players ages 3 and up, which makes this a perfect gift for families who love to play games together.
• High quality components – Contains 6x wooden snails, 2x colored dice, 1x playing board and instructions.
• Skills Learned: Counting, Color matching, Memory
• Number of Players: 2-6 players

Kids move snail game pieces down the board to reach the end. Although it is a snail-themed game, it doesn’t take more than 15 minutes to play.

18. Hi Ho Cherry-O

• CLASSIC BEGINNER GAME: Do you remember playing the Hi Ho. Cherry-O game when you were a child. Introduce new generations to the classic gameplay of this kids’ board game for boys and girls ages 3 and up
• FUN COUNTING BOARD GAME: Kids ages 3 and up can have a blast picking pretend fruit from the trees on the game board, and filling their buckets. The spinner lets them know the number of pieces to pick — or put back
• SIMPLE GAMEPLAY FOR PRESCHOOLERS: Players take turns picking pretend cherries, blueberries, apples, and oranges from their trees to fill their baskets. The first to fill their basket wins
• Skills Learned: Counting, Addition, Subtraction
• Number of Players: 2-3 players

Another board game for 3 year olds is the Hi Ho Cherry-O board game. Kids take turns picking fruits from their trees to fill up their baskets. And whoever picks all the fruits from their tree wins!

19.  Peacable Kingdom Hoot Owl Hoot!

• HURRY LITTLE OWLS: In this color coordinated matching game, players cooperate to help the owls fly back to their nest before the sun comes up. Help all the owls home before sunrise and everyone wins!
• LEARNING AND GROWING: Kids learn simple strategy, following directions & taking turns. Two levels of play allow the game to grow with your child and lets older kids play with younger ones too.
• BENEFITS: Cooperative games cultivate emotional development, shared decision making, positive self esteem, creative problem solving, and develop a sense of community in a non-stressful play environment.
• Skills Learned: Strategy, Teamwork

In this Pre-School board game, players attempt to help owls get to their nest before sunrise via a sun token. Everyone has to work together to reach their goal. Now, if I can use the same logic to get my kids to bed early, that would be great!

20. Caterpillar Matching Game

• A matching game featuring Caterpillar construction vehicles and equipment
• Officially Licensed Caterpillar Product
• Includes: 18 sets of cards
• Skills Learned: Memory, Matching
• Number of Players: 1

This game is another matching card game and is for construction equipment enthusiasts. Or, this is a good introduction for kids to learn more about construction. Even as an adult, I didn’t know what an excavator was.

21. Let’s Feed the Very Hungry Caterpillar Counting Cards

• Fun, colourful and educational board game starring Eric Carle’s renowned storybook characters
• Collect puzzle pieces to transform your caterpillar into a unique, beautiful butterfly
• A fun game of counting, collecting and puzzle building
• Skills Learned: Strategy, Decision making
• Number of Players: 2-4

Kids move the hungry caterpillar around the board collecting puzzle pieces, which create a butterfly. The first person to collect all the pieces and move to the center of the board wins!

22. The Little Orchard

• A co-operative memory and color dice game for 1-4 players ages 3-8. Playing time about 10 minutes.
• The pesky crowwants to steal the ripe cherries from the orchard. Can the children harvest them before the raven reaches the tree?
• Children learn about team work and cooperation as they rush to beat the greedy crow.
• Skills Learned: Memory, Color recognition
• Number of Players: 1-4 player

Kids roll a die and pick a tile with a matching flower. The goal is to get five cherries before you hit too many crows. This board game for 3 year olds is similar to another favorite, Hi Ho Cherry O.

23. Math For Love Tiny Polka Dot

• Sixteen easy-to-learn games help kids fall in love with numbers!
• Playfully teaches counting, arithmetic, and logic
• Vibrant, colorful designs
• Skills Learned: Math

This game is perfect when you’re on the go or when waiting with your child at an appointment. It also offers different kinds of games with cards, allowing you to have more options with your kid.

24. Monkey Around

• GET READY TO MOVE: A wonderful first board game for kids that was created specifically for you and your two year old. Kids love getting to move about while playing a game!
• LETS MOVE TOGETHER: From hugs to high fives to simple skills like balancing, hopping, and marching, the cards in the game will prompt you and your toddler to get on the move! The included beanbag banana adds to the fun!
• LEARNING AND GROWING: Monkey Around improves gross motor skill development, coordination, understanding spatial concepts, recognizing matching body parts, listening, and building vocabulary.
• Skills Learned: Motor skills, Hand-eye coordination
• Number of Players:  
• Minimum Age: 2 

The game offers solo and partner play. Depending on the card, kids have to imitate the actions described on the card. There isn’t a designated winner in this game. Instead, it’s a good reason to act silly and monkey around.

25. My First Castle Panic

• Mythical Marvels – Bring home a cooperative game for little kids that offers a fantasy-filled challenge. Defend your castle from misbehaving monsters in an immersive and captivating game.
• Quest Together – Avoid sore losers and team up to oust any monster you find! Fire up game night with cooperative board games for kids 4-8 years old. Teach teamwork and strategy through adventure.
• Grabbing Goblins – In this kid’s board game 3-6 year-olds will enjoy catching monsters with special abilities and throwing them in the dungeon.
• Skills Learned: Matching, Strategy

If you’re looking for board games for 3 year olds that have action, check out My First Cast Panic. Kids battle monsters that approach a castle. A kid can only battle a monster in a space with a matching shape held by the kid.

26. Pengoloo

• COLOR MATCHING PRESCHOOL MEMORY GAME: This fun board game is designed to develop memory, teach young children about colors and strengthen social skills. Easy to understand and play – no reading required.
• HOW TO PLAY: Roll two colored dice and lift two penguins to search for colored eggs that match the dice. Collect six penguins on your iceberg to win!
• KID FRIENDLY: Pengoloo makes the perfect first board game with easy to follow instructions for children and parents alike. Reinforce color learning, help develop matching skills, strategic thinking, turn-taking, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills with this fun, fast board game for kids. For 2-4 players, perfect for ages 4+.
• Skills Learned: Color recognition, Memory,

Pengoloo is a new take on playing the memory game. Unlike other matching games where you usually flip over a card, this game requires you to lift a penguin to discover a colored egg. The goal is to find the colored egg that matches the rolled die color.

27. Pete the Cat: The Missing Cupcakes Game

• Pete the Cat Adventure: Embark on an exciting adventure with the Pete the Cat Missing Cupcakes Board Game, inspired by the New York Times best-selling book series. Let Pete the Cat guide preschoolers through a delightful gaming experience full of fun and learning.
• Preschool-Friendly Board Game: Tailored for preschoolers aged 3 and above, this board game is thoughtfully designed to capture the attention and imagination of young players. It provides age-appropriate challenges and entertainment.
• No Reading Required: Enjoy hassle-free gameplay as no reading is required for kids to play. The game is accessible and engaging, allowing even the youngest players to participate in the excitement without any literacy barriers.

This game is another matching card game but with Pete the Cat. If your kids are fans of Pete the Cat, they’ll enjoy this simple card game.

28. Pick Me Up, Piggy!

• TELL A STORY: Tell stories about Piggy’s friends as you drive the toy car around the board in Peaceable Kingdom’s Pick Me Up Piggy! Can you remember each of the stories at the end? No reading required.
• GAMES THAT GROW: This creative memory game is an educational learning tool for kids to practice cooperation and vocabulary. It’s also a great tool for teachers: use it in a class demonstration to encourage turn taking, storytelling and memory.
• COOPERATIVE GAMES: Peaceable Kingdom’s Cooperative Games cultivate emotional development, teamwork, creative problem-solving and a sense of community. They are fun for families and perfect for classrooms.
• Skills Learned: Memory, Cooperation, Storytelling

The game begins by hiding the characters in different locations. A player creates a story to help everyone remember where the characters. It’s a fun way to play a memory game using imagination.

29. Race to the Treasure!

• COOPERATIVE GAME: Build a path with your team and collect 3 keys on a race to beat Ogre to the treasure! It’s a game where everyone plays together, no one is left out, and everybody has fun!
• FUN CHALLENGE: Kids love working together to beat the Ogre. Players strategize, cooperate and build the path together. Building onto a path encourages kids to think 2 steps ahead and examine options.
• Skills Learned: Strategy, Cooperation
• Number of Players: 2-4 posts

Players work together to build a path to the treasure. As part of their mission, they also need to collect three keys. However, if the ogre gets to the prize first, everyone loses. Thus, race to the treasure!

30. Rat-A-Tat-Cat

• Children’s card game that helps develop timing and basic mathematical concepts
• Teaches strategy, memory building, and addition
• Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Best Toy Award; Mensa 1996 Best New Mind Game Award
• Skills Learned: Math, Memory

In this game, the lowest score is better. The idea is to get rid of the highest card by peaking and trading with other players. Although the recommended age is high, the concept is simple for three and four year olds to grasp.

31. Robot Turtles

• Trusted by Families Worldwide – With over 50 million sold, ThinkFun is the world’s leader in brain and logic games.
• Develops critical skills – Gameplay provides a stealth learning experience, where players learn key programming princples in a fun, easy to learn way. Inspired by the Logo programming language, Robot Turtles lets kids ages 4 and up write programs with playing cards.
• What you get – Robot Turtles is one of ThinkFun’s best games for kids ages 4 and up. It was designed by programming expert Dan Shapiro and was the most-backed board game in Kickstarter history when first released. For 2-5 players, includes What you get cardboard and cardstock components.
• Playtime:  Varies
• Skills Learned: Basic programming logic

This game originated from Kickstarter, and developers created this game to teach kids the basics of programming logic. Kids must guide a turtle to reach a target location. Children accomplish this goal by giving instructions to the robot turtle. The instructions are on the cards, such as turn or move forward.

32. Sequence for Kids

• The classic game of SEQUENCE made just for kids!
• Play a card from your hand, and place your chip on the corresponding character on the board – the first with four chips in a row wins!
• Exciting strategy game helps develop logical thinking skills

The name of the game is to create a row (or sequence) of chips on the board. Kids play a card with a picture of an animal on it. The child then places the chip on the matching animal on the board to create a sequence of four chips.

33. Shopping List

• Race to collect your groceries and fill your shopping cart in this fun game.
• Develops matching and memory and literacy skills.
• Features fun and engaging gameplay.
• Skills Learned: Matching, Memory, Literacy

Each player gets a shopping cart and a shopping list. Each player flips over face-down cars to reveal a grocery item. If the item is on the list, the player gets to put it in their cart. Whoever completes their list first wins!

34. Spot It! Jr. Animals

• EXCLUSIVE ANIMAL THEME: Dive into an exclusive animal-themed version of Spot It! designed to captivate and entertain younger players.
• MULTI-VARIANT GAME: With 55 cards, each featuring 8 symbols, enjoy 5 exciting variants of the game that can be played in any order or repeatedly.
• QUICK AND ENERGETIC: Spot It! is a fast-paced family card game that sharpens reflexes and observation skills.
• Skills Learned: Develops attention, Visual perception, Motor skills
• Number of Players:   2-5 players

This game offers various modes, such as “Hide and Seek” and “The Tower.” Depending on the rules, kids have to match animals that are found commonly between the cards.

35. The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel

• SPARK MORE TOGETHERNESS! Perfect for spending quality, unplugged time together as a family, The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game also builds key early learning skills and develops social emotional skills including taking turns, sharing, and winning and losing gracefully
• BEST-SELLING PRESCHOOL GAME 5 YEARS RUNNING! Reinforce color learning, develop matching skills (a key early math skill!), encourage strategic thinking, and build hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills with this engaging, quick-play board game for kids
• A SWEET STRATEGY GAME FOR PRESCHOOLERS: Easy to set up, understand—no reading required!, play, and clean up (box doubles as game board and storage!)
• Skills Learned: Motor skills, Hand-eye coordination.

In The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game, kids spin the spinner to find out which colored acorn they pick up. The fun part is getting to use a Squirrel Squeezer to pick up the acorns and store them in their log.

36. Stack Up!

• Skills Learned: Balance, Color matching

The premise of the game is to stack 12 blocks. However, this game includes challenges that kids have to perform. Also, part of the game is intentionally knocking down. Once you finish the stack, a smasher comes to knock down the tower.

37. The Yoga Garden

• Parent’s Choice Award winning game, YogaKids style!
• For ages 4 +
• A fun learning tool designed to help children play and learn yoga.
• Playtime:  
• Skills Learned: Yoga

A yoga teacher created this game to help teach children yoga. The game encourages cooperative play versus competition. Depending on the space where a player lands, the player will have to imitate a yoga pose or even invent one.

38. Uno Moo

• Hooray, it’s UNO MOO!, a preschool version of the beloved UNO game!
• Farm animals come out of their barn to play, and younger players round them up by matching their colors or types.
• Kids will have a blast playing with cows, pigs, skunks, chicken, dogs, sheep or farmer figures and putting them on the barn door and pushing others into the barn.
• Skills Learned: Matching colors, Learning animals

This game takes the basics of Uno and puts a Pre-School spin on it using farm animals. The player with one more critter remaining yells, “Uno Moo!”

39. Yeti in my Spaghetti

• OODLES OF NOODLES—Lay out the noodles over the bowl with the Yeti on top!
• PULL THE NOODLES—Remove the strands of noodles from the bowl, but don’t let the yeti fall!
• ADORABLE GAME—Fun concept and adorable Yeti character make this game extra fun!
• Number of Players: 2+

Players carefully remove spaghetti noodles from under a Yeti. Watch your kids go crazy as they remove a noodle one by one. However, all it takes is one noodle to let the Yeti in your spaghetti.

• Trusted by Families Worldwide – With over 50 million sold, ThinkFun is the world’s leading manufacturer of brain games and mind challenging puzzles.
• Develops critical skills – Perfect for pre-readers and early readers, builds language and matching skills in preschool kids through fun, fast-paced play. Zingo is as popular in the classroom with teachers as it is in the home with families!
• What you get – This is the Amazon exclusive version of the world famous game Zingo, one of ThinkFun’s best games for kids ages 4 and up, and it includes an extra Zingo card so that up to 7 players can play! Also includes a unique Zinger device that delights players of all ages.
• Skills Learned: Language, Reading, Matching

This award-winning game is beloved by parents and teachers, which is a twist on the game Bingo, is the perfect board gaThis award-winning game is beloved by parents and teachers, which is a twist on the game Bingo. Players slide a Zinger that shows two different cards. When a player first correctly identifies the picture on the card, they can pick up the card and match it to their board’s image. The first person to cover all the squares on their board wins. Zingo!

41. Thinkfun Heads Talk Tails Walk Game

• Develops critical skills – Builds visual perception and reasoning skills through fun gameplay.
• What you get – Heads Talk Tails Walk comes with an instruction manual, 10 large body tiles, and 10 small head tiles depicting different animals. Perfect for ages 3 and up, 2 to 5 players.
• Skills Learned: Visual perception, Reasoning

This game is entertaining and lets kids be silly. Kids take turns flipping over a card to see if it matches with the body of an animal. If the card does not match, then everyone imitates the animal. Whoever gets the most matches wins!

When Can a Child Start to Play Board Games?

Board games provide a minimum age or age range for children to play. However, not all kids are the same. I take the recommended age as a general suggestion . Kids are like sponges, constantly absorbing the world around them. 

So, don’t sell your kids short . They may be more intelligent than you think. You won’t know unless you try new games. The best toddler board games may work well for one family and differ for another.

As always, with all parenting, what worked one week doesn’t necessarily mean it will work next week. So, if one board game doesn’t work one day, maybe give it another try a few months later . 

You will know your child best and understand what does and doesn’t work. You’ll soon find which is the best game for your next family game night.

What Makes a Good Board Game for a 3 Year Old?

The term “good” is relative, but there are common attributes in board games for 3 year olds: the time it takes to play, skills learned, number of players, minimum age, and any reading requirement.

• Playtime: A toddler’s attention span around this age is limited. A good length of time for a game is no more than 15 minutes . The less complex a game is, the higher chance your little one will enjoy it, and the time will be a breeze. However, when they start to show frustration, there is always “ next time. ”
• Skills Learned: One of the motivations of board games for 3 years olds is that they help toddlers learn a new skill. These learned skills can be motor skills, counting, matching pictures, identifying shapes and colors, discover new animals, etc .
• Number of Players: The number of players will let you know how flexible a game can be with more or fewer players. 
• Minimum Age: The minimum age on the box is a recommendation. Each kid may learn how to play sooner rather than later. 

Final Thoughts

Did you find your best board game in this long list of best family games? Each game offers a new skill level to learn or improve. Also, at least one family board game offers three different levels, such as cooperative game play.

The essential thing is to enjoy the time with your little ones helping them grow along the way with a fun game. Whether it’s just the two of your or four players, everyone, from younger kids to adults, can have a great time!

So, are you ready to play?

Jacqueline is a wife and a loving mother to two lively kids. Alongside taking care of her family and working full-time in healthcare, she is a real estate investor and a personal finance blogger. She manages the finances for her household and her small real estate business. Also, she has been featured in Grow from Acorns + CNBC, CNET, Business Insider, USA Today, and Ladders.

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Free Math Games Games for 3-Year-Olds

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Introducing our captivating collection of Math games, meticulously crafted for 3-Year-Olds! Designed to ignite a passion for numbers and shapes in young minds, our games blend interactive fun with foundational math concepts perfect for toddlers. With a mix of engaging activities now available and more exciting web-based options coming soon, our games are meticulously tailored to make learning enjoyable and accessible. Whether it's counting, recognizing patterns, or understanding sizes, our Math for 3-Year-Olds games ensure a delightful educational journey for your little one, setting the stage for a lifelong love of learning. Explore our collection today and watch your child's math skills flourish!

The Magic of Math for 3-Year-Olds: Unlocking the Joy of Numbers Through Interactive Games

In the vibrant world of early childhood development, introducing young minds to the wonders of mathematics can be a delightful adventure. Our carefully designed math games crafted specifically for 3-year-olds, offer an enchanting journey into the realm of numbers, shapes, and patterns. These games are not just educational tools; they are gateways to a lifetime of curiosity and love for learning. By blending the essence of play with the foundational concepts of mathematics, we have created a unique learning experience that is both engaging and immensely beneficial for toddlers.

The Power of Interactive Learning

Interactive learning stands at the core of our math games for 3-year-olds. Studies have consistently shown that children learn best when they are actively engaged and enjoying the process. Our games are built on this principle, providing a hands-on learning experience that captivates young minds. Through touching, dragging, and clicking, toddlers can explore mathematical concepts in a way that feels more like play than education. This interactive approach not only enhances cognitive development but also improves fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

A Wide Range of Math Concepts

Our games cover a wide array of math concepts tailored for the developmental stage of 3-year-olds. From recognizing numbers and counting to understanding basic shapes and patterns, our games are designed to lay a strong mathematical foundation. Each game introduces these concepts in a gentle, approachable manner, allowing children to progress at their own pace. The use of bright colors, friendly characters, and engaging sound effects further enriches the learning experience, making each mathematical concept memorable and fun.

Accessibility and Convenience

Recognizing the dynamic nature of today’s digital world, we are excited to announce that our math games will soon be available to play on the web. This development ensures that our educational tools are more accessible and convenient for parents and educators. Whether at home or on the go, your child can continue their mathematical adventure, ensuring consistent learning without the limitations of platform or location. This accessibility is key to integrating learning into daily routines, making math a constant companion in your child’s growth journey.

The Benefits of Early Math Introduction

Introducing math to children at the tender age of 3 has profound benefits. It not only prepares them for formal schooling but also nurtures problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and a keen attention to detail. Our math games are designed to tap into the natural curiosity of toddlers, encouraging them to ask questions, seek solutions, and celebrate their achievements. This early introduction to math fosters a positive attitude towards the subject, often translating into academic success in later years.

Our math games for 3-year-olds stand at the intersection of education and entertainment, offering a rich, interactive learning experience. By engaging with these games, children embark on a journey of discovery, where numbers and shapes become fascinating friends. As we expand our offerings to the web, we are excited to bring the magic of math to even more young learners. Join us in nurturing the next generation of mathematicians, problem solvers, and creative thinkers.

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20 Games For 3-Year-Olds They'll Play Over And Over Again

You may even remember some of these classics from when you were a kid.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. A Ladybug's Garden Memory game  that redefines the matching game genre since it ditches the classic card-flipping style and instead teaches memory with cute ladybugs instead!

For ages 3+ and if you like this you should check out these parenting toddler products .

Promising review: "Excellent quality! My granddaughter loves this fun and educational game!" — Denise Watkins

Get it from Fat Brain Toys for $24.95 .

2. A Whack A Frog game  to keep your toddler from smacking (or throwing) anything (and everything) they probably shouldn't be. Instead, they can refocus that energy on whacking each frog that lights up for a ribbiting  time .

For ages 3+ and don't forget to check out these parenting products with before and afters .

Promising review: "My 3 year old neice and almost 5 year old daughter love to play this game. It's super cute and the kids enjoy playing together or on their own." — Samantha Smithingell

Get it from Amazon for $23.99+  (clip the coupon on the product page to save $5; available in two colors).

3. A "Silly Poopy's Hide & Seek" game (from the makers of What Do You Meme?) that actually involves hiding a fake plastic poo that talks and gives clues to its whereabouts.

For ages 3+

Here's BuzzFeed editor John Mihaly to give you all the dirt about this poop...

"You know as a parent when your brain tells you, 'This might be a bad idea!' but your gut tells you 'Nah, this is going to be hilarious! Maybe.' Luckily, my gut was right this time. Silly Poopy is beyond silly and not poopy at all. It is indeed a poop-ton of fun for the whole family thanks to its infectious song that sounds like it was taken straight from a 1970s game show. Best of all, my kid loves it and hopefully, this is the only poop he tries to hide around the house. — John Mihaly 

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 .

4. A motion-sensing Red Light Green Light game  for taking parents back to those classic recess games — except now they can share that fun with their small tot as they quickly race to make it past the toy car before it says "Red light!"

For ages 3+ and make sure to check out more ways to keep your kids busy for hours .

Promising review: "Our 2.5 year old and 5 year old were familiar with playing Red Light, Green Light so we’re able to play with the “real” traffic light immediately. It is definitely a hit!" — sylvialynn

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 .

5. A game of Honey Bee Tree  to get your kiddo buzzing with excitement as they pull each leave out in the hopes of not dropping any of the adorable bumble bees. 

Promising review:  "This is a fantastic game. Reminds me of Kerplunk, but we prefer the Honey Bee Tree because it's more appealing to my 3-year-old — especially because he loves bumble bees. We like that the sticks have leaves, which makes it easier to grasp. The wings on the bees sometimes help to catch their fall through the sticks, which makes it fun. It's a very cute game, has an easy set up, and really helps my 3-year-old practice taking turns and working on playing gentle. Plus dexterity. He caught on really quickly and regularly asks to play." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 .

6. A RaboSky Beanbag Toss  that isn't just a fun yard game for inebriated adults, but your child can take turns tossing these beanbags while it lowkey teaches them colors and motor skills.

For ages 2+

Promising review:  "I needed something that would keep my 3-year-old busy while I cooked dinner in the kitchen. This thing is amazing. It fits nicely in my small kitchen, and I can even toss the bean bags with him while I cook. We are interacting and he's entertained and not tugging on my leg every few seconds. It also provides him something that he can do on his own. You can stand it up or lay it down, and it provides two different levels of difficulty. It folds up really small and comes with a carrying case, so we can easily take it with us on vacations and such! " — Jose Martinez

Get it from Amazon for $24.99  (clip the coupon on the product page to save 11%; available in four styles).

7. A Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel game  for creating a totally nutty play time with your loved one — especially as they work to collect five acorns by spinning the spinner and picking up the matching acorn with the special ~squirrel squeezer~.

Promising review: "Our family LOVES this game. It’s fun for both of our 9-year-old and 3-year-old to play together. It helps with fine motor skills, is easy enough for the 3-year-old to know the rules, helps with knowing the colors, and how to take turns. All of that yet it’s still fun for the 9-year-old too. This is going to be so fun to gift to friends." — Angela Fleming

Get it from Amazon for $17.24 .

8. An Elefun and Friends game  so energy-filled kids can chase butterflies launched from an inflatable elephant and hopefully drain them of some of that seemingly limitless energy supply. 

Promising review: " My kids (now adults) had this game, and now the grandkids play it. It's really cute, makes an elephant sound, and lightweight plastic butterflies fly out the top. The game has four nets and the goal is to catch as many butterflies as you can. My grandkids even tore up small pieces of paper to make more butterflies, and that worked well. Both my 11-year-old and 3-year-old grandchildren have fun with Elefun." — Marlee

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 .

9. A game of Hi Ho! Cherry-O  for bringing your toddler's favorite snack to playtime while introducing basic math through counting and sorting the fruit-shaped game pieces.

For ages 3+. With a simple set up, playing a round of this only requires using the spinner to collect the fruit and build the included puzzle.

Promising review: "We've been looking for cooperative games for our 3-year-old so we ordered this. She LOVES this game! It combines counting and turn-taking, which she is now doing really well with. The directions are easy to follow and when we have guests over, she even teaches people how to play the game." — B. Peadro

Get it from Amazon for $11.99 .

10. A classic game of Candy Land  too sweet not to resist a round (or two) of, and since it's simple to play, it won't take long for your kiddo to pick up on the rules — just pick a card and move the gingerbread to the color.

Promising review:  "This game brought me back to my childhood. I’m very much enjoying playing this game with my kids as I remember playing it when I was younger. I love that the game has remained simple and nostalgic. My 3-year-old loves playing this game because he can play all by himself without having an adult help him and I’m all for him feeling independent!" — Gigi0802

11. A mix and match game of  Cootie  that makes is actually acceptable to tell a child that they have, well, cooties. They'll unleash their creativity as they put together the different accessories on the colorful bugs, while learning about colors too!

Promising review: "I bought Cooties for all my children and grandchildren. Now I bought it for my great granddaughter and she loves it. She doesn't even have to play the game, she loves putting the different variations on the bodies all by herself." — Amazon Customer

12. An Ants in The Pants game  your toddler will be antsy  to play as you and your kiddo attempt to put as many "ants" in the panda's bottoms. 

Promising review:  "This game is an old time favorite that’s been around for many years, (I played it in the '70s!). This was purchased as a gift and didn’t disappoint! It’s pretty much as I remembered from my childhood. My granddaughter loved it and while it’s a challenge getting the ants to flip exactly where you want them to go, it teaches patience and takes practice. Once again, an old time favorite that ALL ages can play, family fun!" — Chinchopper79

13. A  Count Your Chickens  board game that teaches counting and team cooperation as the kiddos herd the chicks back to the coup before the mother hen returns. A clucking good time for sure! 

Promising review: "Our 3-year-old granddaughter and 5-year-old grandson love to play board games! This is another fun cooperative game to play with them or they can play with each other! 30 little chicks are scattered around the board and as you spin to move the mother hen around the board, the goal is to be able to get all the chicks back in the chicken coup before mother hen reaches the coup. They love it! This is a great game for the 3-year-old to grasp and the game goes quickly (10–15 minutes), so it holds her attention. I would recommend this game for little ones! This Nana has so much fun playing with my grandbabies!" — Dianna S.

Get it from Amazon for $15.99 .

14. A  Family Bingo  card set to out aside for some rainy day, indoor fun and learning (counting, colors, and animals) — the littles ones will be squealing with delight, especially once they get their first BINGO!

Promising review: "I thought this would be a small flimsy game and I was so wrong! It’s very cute and appropriate for kids as young as three. Got this to practice sight words with my first grader and he loves it! We start easy with animals, letters, then numbers, and at the end, sight words and it’s so much fun. It has cute little colored bags to keep everything in order and it has a lot of red dots to use as marks. We have used this several times and even take it from house to house and it still looks new!" — Gm

Get it from Target for $14.99 .

15. A game of  Lucky Ducks  the little tykes will be quacking to play as they try to match the ducks as they move around the pond by looking at the bottom of each one.

For ages 3+ and requires two AA batteries (not included).

Promising review: "My kiddos love playing with this game. It took about five minutes to place all the stickers on and it does require batteries. But it's a super simple game they enjoy for about 10–15 minutes until they want the next one (typical for us, haha)." — Mariana

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+  (available in two styles).

16. An interactive Let's Feed The Very Hungry Caterpillar  board game inspired by the classic Eric Carle children's book. The object of the game for the kids to transform their caterpillar to create a beautiful butterfly as they collect puzzle pieces along the way! 

For ages 3+ — also teaches kids basic motor skills and encourages decision making.

Promising review: "My 3-year-old grandson loves this game. It has butterflies, caterpillars, and puzzles — all three are fun! Takes a few tries for everyone to make a complete butterfly, but it's fun!" — JD

Get it from Walmart for $12.99 .

17. A Barrel of Monkeys  ideal for the toddler who enjoys some good ~monkeying around~. They can create their own games or they can see how many monkeys they can string together — don't be surprised if you find these hanging all around your house!

Promising review: "This is still a classic! Bought this for the grandkids (three and 5-years-old) to play with while we vacationed together. I wanted something low-tech to give them a break from the DVDs and tablets. I was surprised at how much fun they had with these silly Monkeys In A Barrel — they even made up their own games." — Sunkist

Get it from Amazon for $9.94 .

18. A game of Gator Golf  your kiddo can play indoors or outside while learning colors, counting, and taking turns — it's so entertaining you won't be saying "later gator!" to this activity anytime soon.

Promising review:  "I got this game for my niece to play while she is here for the summer. Best decision ever. This fun game comes with four colored balls, a putting stick, and a cute gator head. The object of the game is to be the first to get your ball into the gator's mouth three times. I thought it was fun to play with my niece and I loved we could make up our own rules. It is also a great way to teach color and numbers. The game is made of really nice quality plastic. It has a moving part where when the ball hits the back of the gator's mouth it pops back out. Plus, even adults can have fun with it. I have had many game nights where hubby and I battle it to be the supreme titleholder of hole-in-one with this game. Definitely, a must-buy item for kids to play indoors or out." — Rebecca Bryant

Get it from Amazon for $15.19  (clip the coupon on the product page to save $3.80). 

19. An interactive magnetic fishing puzzle  to help your tots distinguish letters, numbers, and colors. They'll use a lil' fishing rod to catch a hold of a fish-shaped puzzle piece and move it into the correct spot using some agility and brain power!

Promising review: "Absolutely in love with this puzzle! My toddler spends HOURS playing with this! Mom win 🙌🏻!  She loves using the magnetic fishing rod to fish for each letter and number, and has so much fun matching the cutest little fishies back to their “home”! I love how colorful and smooth the pieces are! This puzzle will provide many hours of fun, entertainment, and education for my little girl!" – Mommy2Be

Get it from Amazon for $15.90 .

20. A  toddler scavenger hunt that'll keep their little selves busy while they complete tasks and hunt for "treasure" (clothes, furniture, knickknacks, and other items) around the house!

Promising review: "This is a fun little game! My 3-year-old really enjoys it. He has a speech delay and this game has helped him learn new words and to follow directions. It’s nice that it’s all together on one ring so I don’t have to worry about losing pieces. And the cards are sturdy so it will still be in good shape when my younger son is ready to play." – Amy E

Your kiddos waking you up to play *another* game:

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

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Kindergarten Games Online

3 year old games.

✅  Educational games for 3 year olds online. Free online learning activities for teaching and learning. These free games for kids are computer games, interactive in nature and online to play, no download needed! PC Games are ideal to be used with children as a complement in learning, to reinforce the dynamics of teaching, by parents and teachers in the classroom or at home.

MONSTER BRAINS: Alphabetical Order Game for Kids

BABY PUZZLE: Jigsaw Puzzles for Babies and Toddlers

MATH DOODLE: Matching Pairs Game

Shadow Challenge: SEA ANIMALS

Autumn Vertical Jigsaw Puzzle

CLEAN OCEAN Game for Ki

ANIMAL SHAPES Puzzle Game

COUNT ANIMALS Up to 10

SHADOW GAME: Visual Perception

CHILDREN COLORING Online

THE SOUND: Guess the Sound Game for Kids

ENGLISH ALPHABET GAME: Listening

Coloring Transports for Kids

PRESS THE LONGEST STICK

WHAT IS? Select the Object that Fits

SPOT THE ODD Object One Out

SHAPE PUZZLES with TRAINS to Fit’em

LABYRINTH ONLINE Game for Kids

SNOW SANTA Potato Head

SHAPES MATCHING PUZZLE Games for Christmas

LOFYS: Number Game for Kids

ONLINE COLORING for KIDS

SHAPE PUZZLES with ANIMALS online

5 Piece Animal Jigsaw Puzzle

GARDFIELD ABC Tracing

CATCH THAT CAT: Identical Cats on Halloween

BAT COLORING Online

COUNTING TO 10 Game Online

Find One MATCHING PAIR Game Online

DOMINO FOR KIDS (Preschool / 4-5 years old)

COLORS SEPARATION: Drag Color Game

Learn to Count in DIGIZOO

COUNT TO 10 Game for Kids

ANIMAL PIANO for Kids Online

COUNT UP TO 5: Animals & Colors

SHADOW MATCHING: Transportation Game

ART PIXEL: Coloring Game for Kids

WOODEN SHAPE PUZZLE Online

TRANSPORT SHADOW Matching Game

MAGIC SHOW: Find the Rabbit in the Hat

DINOSAURS, FIX the PATCH: Complete the Dinosaurs

PICK & MATCH: Memory Game for Kids

Animal Coloring Pages Online

KOALA COLORING Pages Online

LETTER SHAPES: ABC Silhouettes

BALLOON ALPHABET: Letter Recognition for Preschoolers

HAPPY CRAYONS: Magic Painting

Easter Eggs Halving Matching Game

Free online educational activities for 3 year old boys and girls in preschool education, also called kindergarten. Young children stop being babies and begin to think creatively to solve problems at this age of three years. Although one of the most important senses at this age is touch, we can take advantage of these interactive activities to stimulate this creativity, in kindergarten or at home. Enjoy these virtual children’s games for 3 year olds, or include, as a teacher, these games in your classroom dynamics, online, without the need to download materials to your students’ computers or tablets. And they are free.

- KINDER MATH Games Online

Educational topics for 3 years.

• Hidden Object
• Same and Different
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Animal Sounds
• Geometric Shapes
• Numbers 0-10
• Transportation
• Occupations

FUN GAMES for KIDS

• Car Games for Toddlers
• Dino Games for Kids
• Kids Board Games

What do children learn at age 3?

• Language: By age 3, children can speak in complete sentences and understand the meaning of basic words. They can follow simple directions, ask questions and participate in simple conversations. They can also learn new words and build their vocabulary. In the classroom, they can learn letters, starting with vowels.
• Math: At this age, children can begin to understand simple math concepts, such as counting to 10, identifying colors and shapes, and understanding the idea of “more” and “less”. They can also begin to learn about sequence and pattern.
• Visual discrimination: 3-year-olds can begin to distinguish between different shapes, sizes and colors. They can also begin to understand the idea of one-to-one correspondence, which means that an object has a partner or equal.
• Attention: 3-year-olds can focus on a task for a short period of time and can follow a sequence of activities. However, they can still be easily distracted and need guidance to maintain focus on an activity.
• Society: 3-year-olds can begin to understand the idea of social rules and expectations, such as appropriate behavior in public and the importance of sharing. They can also begin to grasp the idea of social relationships and how to interact with other children and adults.
• Science: 3-year-olds can begin to explore the natural world and learn about nature and animals. They can also begin to understand simple science concepts, such as gravity and cause and effect.

Play free online toddler games and games for babies!

Online games for babies to play using keyboard or touchscreen.

Free Educational games for babies and kids. We have created the most beautiful and popular online games for kids, babies and young children available to play for free. Our aim is to provide a safe and recommended free website dedicated for kids, crafted with love and offering the best online learning benefits for toddlers, babies, and preschoolers.

Toddler Games to point and Click (PC) or Tap (Mobile)

We believe that learning should be a fun and enjoyable experience for children. Therefore, our online and free educational activities for kids 1-2-3-4-5-years old are designed with the most beautiful drawings to play and captivate their imagination and foster their cognitive and motor skills.

Free Toddler Games: dragging and dropping

From online puzzles for kids and colorful memory games to paint drawing activities for 1-2-3-4-5-years old and educational activities for children, our online collection offers a wide variety of options to keep young minds stimulated and entertained.

Toddler games online to move and direct the mouse or to swap the finger on touchscreens

We have carefully designed each online educational game for kids to be age-appropriate, ensuring that it caters to the developmental needs and interests of preschoolers and young children with the most beautiful drawings.

Toddler Online Games: Coloring and Painting Games

Online activities for kids and preschoolers. In addition to the captivating gameplay, our free website for 1-2-3-4-5-years old also provides a user-friendly interface that is easy for young children to navigate independently.

4 pieces jigsaw puzzles for toddlers: by dragging and dropping

At our free website for kids, we understand the importance of providing a secure online environment for children to explore, play, and learn. Safety of children 1-2-3-4-5-years old is our utmost priority, and we have implemented stringent measures to ensure a secure browsing educational experience for children.

Online Games for Toddlers: Maze Games

We take pride in the positive feedback we receive from parents and educators who have witnessed the developmental benefits our free educational games provide. Our online website offers a wide array of online activities for 1-2-3-4-5-years old young children, with the best drawings and completely free to play.

Free Online Memory Games for Toddlers

From enhanced problem-solving abilities to improved hand-eye coordination, our free activities for kids 1-2-3-4-5-years old have proven to be effective tools for early childhood learning.

Welcome to HappyClicks.net, a website full of entertaining, toddler games and baby games online.

Happy Clicks features a collection of free interactive online educational activities designed with the most beautiful drawings for babies , toddlers , and preschool kids , with brightly colored effects that will keep them delighted. Here, you will find interactive online activities that parents can enjoy playing with their babies and toddlers. These free toddler games are simple to play, and preschool kids can enjoy playing them on their own. Fun and free, our games make learning more enjoyable for your baby, toddler, and preschooler. Our activities are a great way to learn new skills. Additionally, Happy Clicks provides an opportunity for you to spend quality time playing with your toddler or baby.

Our free online games for toddlers are entertaining for everyone.

You may be surprised at how early your son and/or daughter can point, click, and navigate their way through enjoyable activities . The activities are interactive and simple, making learning fun with the coolest drawings. All the online games for babies and toddlers (1-2-3-4-5-year-old) on this site are free. Mothers and fathers can enjoy playing with their toddler or preschooler .

Kids, preschoolers, toddlers, babies, parents , and everyone in your family will find lots of original educational online games for toddlers and baby games . Here, you will find free coloring pages , toddler maze games , memory games for preschoolers , keypress games for babies , point and click games , and many more to play with your baby or toddler.

Play and learn with your child online!

Watch Our Videos! Fun Videos for Babies and Toddlers 1 year, 2 year, 3 year old.

The Family Gamers

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Top Ten Games for Three Year Olds

Top 10 Games for 3 Year Olds

Recommending games for a specific age range is hard, especially for very young children. “Three years old” encompasses a very wide range in a young child’s life; a 36-month-old toddler is much less skilled than a 47-month-old preschooler, although they’re both three.

But within this year, most kids can* :

• recognize color differences, even if they can’t name them
• sort items by size
• Begin to understand “before” and “after”, sequencing actions together
• Count to four
• Play pretend
• Stack blocks or toys
• Draw a simple line or a circle after being shown how

And their typical attention span for a single project is under ten minutes.

So we’re recommending games that emphasize turn-taking, stacking, memory, and pattern matching. Here are our favorite games that work within this skill set.

Our Top Ten Games for 3 Year Olds

1. roll & play.

This just-barely-a-game is perfect for toddlers. Roll the big squishy die and find the matching color card. The Thinkfun set (on Amazon) has several card options, so kids can make animal noises, identify body parts, and more.

2. My Very First Games: Rhino Hero Junior

Kids love stacking the tower and knocking it down. How much do they love it? I’ll tell you in 15 seconds:

There’s not a ton of “game” here, either, but it’s a step above the Roll & Play because of the matching and stacking elements. Even older kids may enjoy the challenge of mixing up the “floors” to build a tower that’s less stable.

See our review of My Very First Games: Rhino Hero Junior or find it on Amazon .

3. My Very First Games: Animal Upon Animal Junior

Just like its “big brother” Animal upon Animal , this is a game all about matching and stacking, but with big chunky pieces that will be less frustrating for kids who are still working on their fine motor skills. The instructions include ways to play cooperatively or competitively.

See our full review of My Very First Games: Animal Upon Animal Junior or find the game on Amazon .

To be fair, this is a whole category of games rather than one specific game, and a skill that gets less exercise once children are strong readers – which means that kids can often beat their adults at these games. What a confidence boost!

Our kid tester loved Smoosh and Seek Treehouse , although the squishy dough means that this game probably won’t age well. Our sons loved Chicken Cha Cha Cha (now sadly out of print). Parents and children will both enjoy the cuteness of the Ecologic Memory games . Get a theme that interests your child (such as any of these picks on Amazon ) and be ready to play it over and over again.

5. Don’t Break the Ice

Although this game can be very noisy (hello, plastic hammers), it teaches cause and effect. Kids start to learn tactical decision making as they decide where to hit the blocks and how hard. It’s also a game that kids can play together with minimal set-up help from mom or dad. ( Find it on Amazon )

This classic speed-matching game will be challenging at first, but with encouragement and practice, most 3-year-olds can focus on the cards and find pictures that match. ( Find it on Amazon )

7. Dragomino

Our kids played Kingdomino at three years old, but mostly because Dragomino was not around yet. This “my first” version is a better choice to introduce the concepts of matching the terrain dominoes and getting something when you do – cute baby dragons!

There’s a lot more luck in this game, which helps level the playing field when playing with very young children. And since dragon eggs aren’t evenly distributed, seasoned players will begin to learn the probability of drawing a baby dragon egg vs. an empty shell.

See our full review of Dragomino or find the game on Amazon .

8. Dragon’s Breath

More cute dragons show up in this dexterity game. It requires better fine motor control, as players carefully remove a single “ice ring” to release sparkly stones in different colors. Three year olds can be assigned a color randomly, but older children can take turns to pick which color they want before pulling the ring. This game will grow with your children, and the best part is that it cleans itself up as you play!

One caveat: this game is not for children who still put things in their mouths. The sparkly stones are too small and too tempting for toddlers to resist.

See our review of the award-winning Dragon’s Breath or find the game on Amazon .

9. Suspend Jr.

A friend showed us Suspend when our youngest child was 3 ½. He took to it right away, and we bought Suspend Jr. to play at home. This is a stacking dexterity game with an obvious goal (hang your pieces) and teaches natural consequences (if a piece falls down, I have to keep it and try again later).

The plastic pieces are the only thing that changes from the original Suspend ; the shapes are still challenging for adults. If your kids like this game, you can keep playing it for many years.

Find Suspend Jr. on Amazon .

10. Turtle Splash

The most recent release in our list, Turtle Splash combines dexterity and memory in a way we hadn’t seen before. Older children and adults will probably be better at flicking the little turtle disc into the “pond” to gain more chances to flip memory tiles; but this game provides myriad ways to adjust the difficulty across ages – even in the middle of the game.

See our Turtle Splash review or find the game on Amazon .

Honorable mentions:

Some of our kids’ favorite games are no longer in print. But if you can find any of these in a thrift store, snap them up for your favorite toddler or preschooler!

Go Away Monster Hisss Zitternix

Now get out there and play games with your kids!

* List of what a typical 3-year-old can do resourced from the CDC and Children’s Hospital of Orange County .

This post contains affiliate links, which do not change your price, but help support The Family Gamers.

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Can a 3-year-old play nintendo switch, 9 best nintendo switch games for 3-year-olds, do educational switch games help kids learn, is nintendo switch easy to use for kids, there is something for everyone on switch, related articles, 9 best switch games for 3-year-olds [✓ fun & educational].

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Updated on: April 01, 2024

Nintendo is known as a family-friendly gaming console. You can find mature content and subtle options that kids can engage in without exposure to too much violence. So, if you have a toddler, you might ask yourself if there are Switch games for 3-year-olds or children of a similar age.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the best video games for 3-year-olds on Switch. We’ll also discuss whether the Nintendo Switch is easy to use for kids. Without further ado, let’s dive into it!

Yes, a 3-year-old can play Nintendo Switch. The console is age-inclusive and suitable even for younger players. Some Nintendo games are suitable for everyone according to ESRB rating , and others rated PEGI 3-7 , meaning the game content is suitable for ages 3 and up. 

Additionally, most games on Switch are easy to learn, and kids can use their intuition to master the gameplay. However, before picking Switch games for 3-year-olds, consider the Nintendo rating and description found on a website.

For physical copies, check the back of the game packaging.

Learn more about the Parental Controls system from Nintendo .  

Let’s look at some of the top Switch games for younger kids.

1. My Friend Peppa Pig

Price: $39.99 Category: Learning, Adventure Skills it develops: Creativity, Reading, Co-ordination

This game is based on Peppa Pig, one of the most successful children’s shows. In the game, players must help Peppa make decisions in her daily activities or as she sets off for adventures.

Children join the world of Peppa as an animal character of their choosing. Apart from exploring, players are also required to solve simple puzzles that are easy to navigate, thanks to verbal instructions. 

2. Bluey: The Videogame

Price: $39.99 Category: Adventure, Action Skills it develops: Focus, Coordination, Problem-solving 

Bluey is based on the popular show about an Australian blue heeler cattle dog. In this Switch video game, players join Bluey and her family in four different adventure settings. For the first time, players can explore the iconic Heeler house, creek, playground, and beach. 

It also features a multiplayer mode where children can play with others. In addition to going on adventures, there are plenty of collectibles for kids to gather. 

3. Yoshi’s Crafted World

Price: $59.99 Category: Platformer, Action, Adventure Skills it develops: Creativity, Focus

Yoshi first debuted in Super Mario World but has since become a very popular character in the gaming world. In the Switch game Yoshi Crafted World, players dress this green adorable dinosaur in different costumes and go on adventures to collect items. 

The game is similar to Super Mario games, with levels across various theme worlds. The best part is these levels can be played backward, thus giving players a new perspective. 

Are these games included in the Nintendo Switch when you buy it? Find out here !

4. Little Friends: Dogs & Cats

Price: $49.99 Category: Simulation, Lifestyle Skills it develops: Responsibility, Accountability

Little Friends: Dogs & Cats is a game where kids care for a virtual dog or cat. Players can dress, pet, name, and even take their little furry friends for walks in the game. There are 6 dog and 3 cat breeds to choose from. 

This is a good option for children who want a pet but aren’t old enough to care for one. It is generally pretty similar to Nintendogs. 

5. Paw Patrol Mighty Pups Save Adventure Bay

Price: $29.99 Category: Action, Platformer Skills it develops: Focus, Problem-solving

This game is derived from the kid’s animated series PAW Patrol. Seven puppies gain superpowers in the game after a fallen meteor hits Adventure Bay and leaves it a mess. They are now tasked with using their powers to save the town. 

Kids can play as different characters on the 7 various superheroic missions. There are also 7 other mini-games to explore. 

6. Pokemon Cafe Mix

Price: Free Category: Puzzle Skills it develops: Responsibility 

Pokemon Cafe Mix is a puzzle game where players deliver recipes to customers. Each recipe is an icon puzzle. Gathering enough icons enables players to make a dish for their patrons. 

Cafe Mix is about fostering friendships and relying on friends to solve puzzles. And, on the brighter side, it is free to download! 

When getting games for your Nintendo Switch, it’s important to know whether Switch games are region-locked. Find out more about Nintendo’s region restrictions in this article .

7. Race With Ryan

Price: $24.99 Category: Racing Skills it develops: Coordination, Focus

As the name suggests, this is a racing game where the player heads to six different locations as Ryan. The goal is to collect mystery eggs scattered on different tracks with secret pathways. 

Race with Ryan has a simple gameplay based on Mario Kart. Most people complain its graphics are substandard and consist of nonexistent animations. But these simplistic features are what make the game ideal for younger audiences.

8. Coloring Book

Price: Free, $4.99 or $6.99 Category: Educational, Simulation, Utility, Training Skills it develops: Coloring, Writing, Coordination 

This is one of the best Nintendo Switch learning games for 3-year-olds. The Coloring Book game includes 62 drawings and 18 whiteboards for your kid to showcase their coloring skills.

The game is quite straightforward. A player selects an area, and it automatically fills with color without straying outside the lines. 

There is a palette of 130 colors; up to 4 players can color at once. The basic game is free, but you can spend a little extra to access the complete bundle for kids. 

9. Suika Game

Price: $2.99 Category: Puzzle, Party Skills it develops: Problem-Solving, Coordination

Suika is a fruit puzzle game in which two fruits combine to form another. For example, two strawberries merge to make a grape. The goal is to survive as long as possible before your screen is dominated and the cup overflows. 

The game has very cute and colorful graphics, making it more appealing to kids. As the game continues, your child will learn how to balance and work with the physics in the game, which builds their coordination skills. 

Discover how you can play these Switch games offline .

Yes, educational Switch games help kids learn. Nintendo Switch learning games for 3-year-olds can encourage your child to develop a love of learning and view it as a fun activity. The games may also boost concentration and attention, which are essential for learning.

Educational games for Nintendo Switch can also assist kids in building skills such as problem-solving and collaboration, which are beneficial to their lives. However, moderation is important to prevent interference with physical activities. 

Discover Nintendo’s 5-in-1 educational and learning bundle for kids or this other educational games pack .

Yes, Nintendo Switch is easy to use for kids. The console’s joy cons are suited for smaller hands. It is also portable and easy to use. The Switch Lite is very lightweight and designed to be a handheld console. Switch games for 3-year-olds also have engaging themes and child-friendly visuals. 

Switch games for younger kids have simple controls and instructions, allowing children to explore the game at their own pace. 

Learn more about kids’ options from Nintendo Switch . 

Nintendo is an all-inclusive console. Therefore, there are plenty of Switch games for 3-year-olds. Whether you are looking for adventure, action, or educational games, there are plenty of options with famous names like Bluey. 

Most of the games listed above are rated 3+. Hence, they also fall under the best Switch games for 5-year-olds category. 

• 15 Amazing 8-Player Switch Games of 2024 (Updated!)
• How Many Games Can a Switch Hold? [With & Without SD Card]
• Play Downloaded Switch Games Offline [The Easy Way!]
• 10 Best Nintendo Switch VR Games [You’ll Be Surprised]
• How to Play Old Pokemon Games on Switch

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The 40 Best Toys and Gifts for 3-Year-Olds, According to Experts

Everything they need for pretend play, playtime with others and outdoor activity.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

"Around age 3, children start showing more interest in playing with others, instead of just playing next to each other," says Jacque Bogdanov, PsyD, child psychologist and founder of ChildBehaviorClinic.com . "It’s a great time to introduce easy games that encourage cooperation and turn taking, like simple board games or matching and memory games. Their imagination is also growing, so they tend to enjoy toys that encourage pretend and dramatic play like play food and kitchens, dolls, and so on."

Don't forget those preschool energy levels, either! "Three-year-olds have a high need for physical activity and movement too," Dr. Bogdanov says. "Give them something to pedal or jump on that encourages gross motor development like bikes, trikes and scooters ." With all things considered, these were the faves.

GUND 'PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie' Skye Stuffed Animal

This plush is on a roll! Fans will thrill to have Skye, the star of PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie , complete in her super hero outfit. The other pups are available as well. Ages 1+

Crayola Spill Proof Paint Set

Good Housekeeping testers were amazed at the way these semi-solid paints didn't drip, slosh or spill (though they did notice that if kids got the paint on their hands, they could make smudges that way). This set makes tapping into their creative sides even easier with eight paint colors, three brushes and activity sheets to paint on. Ages 3+

This book won over Good Housekeeping Institute testers with a clever gimmick: Each page has a poem about a different animal, then kids have to use a "slide and see" feature to reveal which creature it is. Testers also loved the unusual animal selections: " This book introduced us to sea dragons and owl butterflies,” one reviewer said.

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Kids' Book Awards

Fat Brain Toys Teeter Popper

Get them to work on their balance and coordination with this curved board, which kids can sit on or stand on and rock back and forth. The fun part is that the bottom is covered in suction cups, so it makes a popping sound. It comes in pink, green and blue. Ages 3+

Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe Scooter

This scooter was designed with preschoolers in mind: It has three wheels to help keep them balanced, and the handlebars are height adjustable to keep up with them as they grow to age 5. Plus, it comes in half a dozen colors, so you can choose their favorites. Ages 2+

RELATED: The Best Scooters for Kids to Get Them Rolling

Yoto Player

This audio player is designed for preschoolers to be able to use by themselves; they just have to put a card in to start a story, song or podcast, and take it out when they want it to stop. Good Housekeeping testers appreciated its long battery life and ease of use. This comes with a make-your-own audio card, but then you can explore cards with Disney themes , bedtime music , and more. Ages 3+

RELATED: The Best Preschool Graduation Gifts

Bluey 5-Minute Stories

If you have a Bluey or a Bingo at home who wants a nightly bedtime story, these are the perfect length for the "just one more story" time. Each one centers on the family of Heelers that kids know and love. Ages 2+

LeapFrog Rainbow Learning Lights Mixer

Kids really got into the pretend play with this one. “My son loved pulling apart the pretend butter and eggs and adding stuff to the bowl,” one parent tester said. But in addition to pretend baking, kids can use this to follow a recipe card, listen to instructions, press the buttons to make the paddle spin, practice counting (pressing the buttons from one to five) or practice colors (the mixer lights up in different ones). Ages 2+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall

What set this water table apart from all the others was its space-saving design: Most of the features are aligned vertically to keep it to a smaller footprint. Kids can scoop and pour water and watch it cascade through the different features. It's also two-sided, so siblings can use it at the same time. Ages 18 months+

RELATED: The Best Water Tables

VTech Storytime with Sunny

Testers were taken in by the expression on this light's face, which moves when it talks and tells stories. It comes with four disks that are packed with stories, songs, games, jokes, tongue twisters and more. It also works as a nightlight and an alarm clock, so testers appreciated that they could use it for bedtime and wake-up routines. It comes in pink and blue. Ages 3+

S’Mores Break! Sensory Fidget Activity Set

These fidget toys are perfect for the little camper in your life. Each one is different: The s'more can be squished, the marshmallow in the cocoa spins and the cinnamon roll telescopes in and out. In addition, there are guided, social-emotional activity cards included in the set that aim to help kids calm themselves down or name their feelings. Ages 3+

Melissa & Doug Top & Bake Wooden Pizza Counter Play Set

Order up! This set gets their imaginations firing as they add their favorite topping and pretend to cook the pizza in the oven. But they'll also practice sorting and counting — it comes with fake money — as they run their own pizza shop. Ages 3+

Tactile Turtles Math Activity Set

This set is filled with 36 turtles of different sizes, colors, belly shapes and textures, and the included activity cards show kids how to use them to practice early math skills likes sorting, counting, and grouping. "My daughter loved the tactile feeling of the turtle shells and the bright colors," one parent tester said. Our experts also liked that hand2mind says these turtles are made with post-consumer recycled plastic. Ages 3+

LeapFrog Interactive Learning Easel

There are so many different ways to use this easel: There's a chalkboard on one side, a whiteboard on the other and the top even has clips to hold up paper for drawing with crayons or markers. But what kid testers really love the most was the interactive elements, which offer guided drawing activities that kids can follow along with. There's also traceable magnets that help them practice letters and shapes. Ages 3+

Brio Mickey Mouse Train Set

Get Mickey, Minnie and Donald to their destinations on time with this Disney-themed train set. This set features Brio-quality tracks and pieces, but also includes the characters kids know and love. It comes with three figures and eight pieces of track and an engine and wagon along with accessories like a fence crossing, bench, tree and sign. Ages 3+

Camping Outdoors Memory Matching Card Game

Test their matching, retention and strategy skills with this classic memory game. The illustrations in the deck have a camping motif, so they're great to keep in a backpack and use in the park or on the go. Ages 3+

Replica Dyson Ball Vacuum Toy

While colorful and cartoony cleaning toys are great, this one is hilarious because it looks so much like a real Dyson vacuum. Colorful balls swirl around, but that's not all: It even has enough real suction to pick up small pieces of paper , which you can empty through a removable dustbin in the back. Ages 3+

Fisher-Price Meditation Mouse

With social-emotional learning a huge focus for children today, this toy can help kids regular their feelings. There are three modes of guided meditation: one for daytime relaxation, one for nighttime soothing and one three-step calm-down exercise. Ages 2+

The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game

At age 3, kids might start to have the attention and comprehension needed to play a family game. This one challenges players to get one of each acorn — and they have to use a squirrel-shaped tweezer to pick them up, too. Ages 3+

Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit

Our youngest thinkers are growing up with technology, so we might as well use our latest gadgets for educational play. Because touch is an important factor in early childhood learning, this Little Genius starter kit uses silicone sticks and rings to help your child create shapes, letters and numbers to follow the included games' prompts. All three games, ABCs, Costume Party and Stories can be monitored via a parent app to track learning progress. You could get it for iPads or Fire tablets. Ages 3+

Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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Top 5 Best Board Games for 4-Year-Olds in 2024: Where Fun Meets Learning

A re you on the hunt for the perfect board game for your 4-year-old, but feel overwhelmed by the sea of options? You're not alone. Selecting a game that's both engaging and educational can seem like finding a needle in a haystack. The right board game can transform playtime into an enriching experience, fostering essential cognitive and social skills. However, not all games are created equal . That's where we step in. Let's navigate this vibrant world of board games together, ensuring your next pick is nothing short of perfect.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Board games enhance cognitive and social skills in 4-year-olds.
• Look for games that balance fun with educational value.
• Consider durability and ease of understanding when choosing a game.
• Popular brands offer a variety of options tailored for young children.
• Evaluate games based on child development expert recommendations and real-world testing.

JH5 My First Treasure Hunt!: A Perfect Family Game Night Adventure

In the world of board games for the young adventurers, "JH5 My First Treasure Hunt!" emerges as a shining jewel. This product by Jumping High Five isn't just any board game; it's a gateway to fostering creativity, strategic thinking, and teamwork among children aged 4 and up. Crafted with vibrant colors and engaging illustrations, this game is designed to captivate and educate, making it an ideal pick for family game nights.

The game's premise is simple yet thrilling: players work together to uncover hidden treasures on an island before a looming storm washes them away. This cooperative approach ensures that every player is engaged and contributes to the game's outcome, making victory a shared achievement. The game is applauded for its balance of fun and educational value, as it subtly enhances skills like basic counting, turn-taking, and strategic planning.

ThinkFun Zingo Bingo: Sparking Joy and Learning in Preschoolers

"ThinkFun Zingo Bingo Award Winning Preschool Game" has quickly become a household name, enchanting families worldwide with its engaging blend of fun and educational gameplay. As a top choice among both teachers and parents, Zingo stands out for its ability to develop critical language and matching skills in preschoolers through fast-paced play. This Amazon exclusive version allows up to 7 players to join in, thanks to an additional Zingo card, making it even more accessible for family game nights and classroom fun.

Equipped with a unique Zinger device that adds an element of surprise and delight, Zingo ensures everyone, from young to old, is engaged and entertained. Its ease of understanding, underscored by a high-quality instruction manual, means play can commence immediately out of the box—no lengthy setup required. Moreover, Zingo's recognition in the form of multiple awards, including an Oppenheim Gold and a Parents' Choice Award, speaks volumes of its value as a gift for children aged 4 and up.

Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures: A Colorful Journey for Preschoolers

"Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures Board Game" remains a cherished introduction into the magical world of board games for children. This classic game, adored across generations, invites little ones to embark on a sweet adventure towards the castle, racing through a realm filled with delicious surprises, without the need for reading skills. Suited for players aged 3 and up, it stands as an exemplary first board game that teaches color recognition, simple strategy, and turn-taking in an enchanting setting.

The game's allure is enhanced by its vibrant board and whimsical illustrations, capturing the imagination of its young audience. Hasbro Gaming has updated Candy Land with brighter, more engaging graphics while retaining the game's straightforward gameplay. It's a game where every card drawn propels the cute gingerbread man pawn closer to the castle, making it an exciting race to the finish.

Hasbro Gaming Don't Break The Ice: A Frosty Adventure for Preschoolers

"Hasbro Gaming Don't Break The Ice Preschool Game" brings a refreshing chill to family game nights, offering a perfect blend of suspense and laughter. This game sets the stage for an arctic adventure, where players take turns chipping away at a block of ice, hoping not to let Phillip the Penguin fall through. Aimed at children ages 3 and up, it's a wonderful way to introduce young minds to the world of board games without the need for reading.

The excitement of Don't Break The Ice lies in its simplicity and the immediate fun it offers. It's not just a game; it's a race against the melt, with each tap bringing either relief or a hilarious splashdown for Phillip. Families can gather to share in the thrill, making it an ideal choice for bringing everyone together, from the youngest members to the oldest.

Swing into Action with Hasbro Gaming Chutes and Ladders: Marvel Spider-Man Edition

Dive into the thrilling world of superheroes with "Hasbro Gaming Chutes and Ladders: Marvel Spider-Man Edition Board Game," a captivating adventure that combines the timeless fun of the classic Chutes and Ladders with the exciting universe of Marvel. This edition invites players to ascend with heroes and slide down with villains in a race to the finish line, featuring a vibrant game board adorned with your favorite characters.

This preschool-friendly game, suitable for kids as young as 3 years old, offers an engaging way to practice numeracy without the need for reading. The inclusion of eight Spider-Man character movers, such as Venom, Iron Spider, and Green Goblin, adds a personalized touch to the gameplay, allowing children to embark on the adventure as their favorite superhero or villain.

What Are Board Games for 4-Year-Olds?

Board games for this age group are designed to engage young players in activities that develop their cognitive abilities, motor skills, and social interactions. These games often include simple rules , appealing characters, and tactile elements that cater to their developmental stage.

Exploring Varieties

From cooperative board games that encourage teamwork to competitive ones that spark a healthy desire to win, the variety is endless. Subcategories include educational games focusing on numbers and letters, strategy games to enhance problem-solving skills, and games that improve memory and concentration.

Spotlight on Brands and Their Offerings

• Hasbro : Known for classics like "Candy Land," which teaches color recognition and simple counting.
• Melissa & Doug : Offers "Suspend," a balancing game that enhances fine motor skills.
• Peaceable Kingdom : Specializes in cooperative games like "Hoot Owl Hoot!" that encourage teamwork.
• ThinkFun : Introduces basic logic with games like "Zingo."
• Ravensburger : Their "My First Orchard" game is excellent for developing color recognition and dexterity.
• Educational Insights : "The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game" improves hand-eye coordination.
• LeapFrog : Offers technology-driven learning games.
• HABA : Known for high-quality, wooden games that last.

7 Must-Know Buying Criteria

• Educational Value : Look for games that promote learning through play.
• Age Appropriateness : Ensure the game matches your child's cognitive and motor skill level.
• Durability : Kids can be tough on toys; durability is key.
• Ease of Play : Simple rules and quick setup times are preferable.
• Replay Value : Games that grow with your child or offer varied gameplay are ideal.
• Social Interaction : Encourage games that foster interaction either through cooperative play or family involvement.
• Safety : Non-toxic materials and choke-free pieces are essential.

Statistic & Fact

According to Grand View Research, the board games market was valued at USD 13.1 billion in 2020, with a forecasted growth rate of 9.3% from 2021 to 2028. This growth underscores the enduring appeal and importance of board games in child development.

Expert Insight

"Board games for young children are more than just playthings. They're tools that stimulate brain development while fostering important social skills like taking turns." - Dr. Carla Marie Manly, Clinical Psychologist.

Potential Weaknesses and Solutions

• Complexity : Avoid games that are too complex. Look for simplicity in rules and objectives.
• Fragile Components : Seek out games made with durable materials.
• Limited Age Range : Choose games with flexible rules or expansions to grow with your child.

Evaluating Board Games: 5 Tests

• The Durability Test : Inspect the game components for sturdiness.
• The Engagement Test : Observe if the game holds your child's attention.
• The Learning Curve Test : Ensure the game introduces new concepts at a comfortable pace.
• The Social Interaction Test : Watch how the game affects interactions with peers and adults.
• The Fun Factor Test : Ultimately, the game should deliver joy and excitement to your child.

Buyer Avatars

• The Educational Enthusiast : Focuses on games that offer a clear learning benefit.
• The Social Butterfly : Looks for games that encourage interaction and teamwork.
• The Durability Seeker : Prioritizes high-quality, long-lasting game components.

Choosing the best board game for your 4-year-old is about striking a balance between fun and educational value. With the right game, you can turn playtime into a golden opportunity for growth and learning.

What skills can my child learn from board games?

Board games can enhance cognitive skills, motor skills, social skills, and emotional development.

How often should we play board games?

As often as you can! Regular play enhances the benefits.

Are digital board games as beneficial as physical ones?

While digital games offer convenience, physical games are better for developing fine motor skills and real-world social interactions.

Can board games help with preschool readiness?

Absolutely. They can introduce basic math, reading, and social skills necessary for preschool.

What if my child gets frustrated with a game?

Choose games with adjustable difficulty levels and encourage a growth mindset, emphasizing effort and learning over winning.