Best toys and games for 6 year olds: fun, screen-free and a little clever

The best toys and games for a 6 year old are quick card games, friendly cooperative games and puzzles with a clear win. Six is a sweet spot: children can read a little, count and add small numbers, and they love beating a grown-up fair and square.

What are the best card games for a 6 year old?

• Rat-a-Tat Cat is a memory and number card game where the lowest score wins.
• Sleeping Queens mixes strategy, simple sums and a lot of laughing.
• Sushi Go! is a fast pick-and-pass card game that teaches planning ahead.
• Trash Pandas is a cheeky set-collecting game.

Check the age on each product page, as some of these are best with a helping adult at first.

What are the best cooperative games for a 6 year old?

Outfoxed! is a detective game for ages 5 and up where the players work together. The Peaceable Kingdom games, such as Space Escape, The Fairy Game and Mermaid Island, are gentle ways to play together.

What maths games suit a 6 year old?

Tiny Polka Dot and Mobi turn number sense into play. See our maths games guides for more.

What about puzzles and mini challenges?

Mini Dice Club games are small and cheap-feeling to carry, ideal for pockets and restaurants. Pick a game to match the child.

FAQ

Should a 6 year old play competitive games?

Yes, in small doses. Mix cooperative and competitive games so they learn both.

What if they get upset when they lose?

Use short games, play several rounds, and let them see you lose gracefully.

More choices: educational gifts for 6 year olds.