Working with kids with ADHD has shown me just how much they benefit from engaging activities that cater to their unique needs. Games can be a wonderful tool for helping kids with ADHD channel their energy, improve focus, and build social skills. That’s why I’m excited to share some of the best games out there that can make a real difference. In this list, you’ll find a variety of games that are not only fun but also provide the stimulation and structure that kids with ADHD often thrive on.
Table of Contents
1. Fast-paced Games
Kids with ADHD often thrive on fast-paced games that offer quick payoffs and keep them constantly engaged. Here are a few top picks:
- Monopoly Deal: This card game version of Monopoly is quicker and can be completed in just 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for short attention spans.
- Pass the Pigs: A simple, quick game that involves rolling pig-shaped dice and scoring points based on how they land.
- Qwirkle: A tile-matching game that challenges kids to think strategically while keeping the gameplay moving rapidly.
- No Thank You, Evil!: A role-playing game designed specifically for kids, encouraging creativity and quick decision-making.
- Boggle: A word-search game that’s not only fun but also educational, helping kids improve their spelling and vocabulary skills.
Read more: What Games are Good for ADHD?
2. Board and Card Games
Traditional board and card games can also be great for kids with ADHD, provided they are engaging enough to keep their attention. Here are some favorites:
- UNO: A classic card game that’s easy to learn and fast-paced, perfect for quick rounds of play.
- Spot It!: A matching game that challenges kids to quickly identify symbols, improving their focus and reflexes.
- Monopoly Junior: A simpler and faster version of the classic Monopoly, designed for younger kids.
- Catan Junior: An introduction to strategy games, simplified for kids, teaching them planning and resource management.
- Race to Treasure: A cooperative game where kids work together to beat the game, fostering teamwork and strategic thinking.
- Gnomes at Night: A cooperative maze game that requires communication and collaboration to succeed.
3. Active Games
Active games are fantastic for kids with ADHD because they allow them to burn off excess energy while having fun. Some great options include:
- Musical Chairs: A lively game that combines music and movement, requiring kids to stay alert and react quickly.
- Balloon Volleyball: A fun indoor game that gets kids moving and improves their coordination.
- Jumping Rope: Simple yet effective, jumping rope helps kids focus their energy and improves their physical fitness.
Read more: 7 Fun Activities for Kids With ADHD
4. Other Games
In addition to the categories above, there are many other games that can benefit kids with ADHD. Here are a few:
- Memory Games: Games like Memory or Simon help improve kids’ concentration and recall abilities.
- Word Puzzles: Crossword puzzles and word searches are excellent for keeping kids engaged while building their vocabulary.
- Indoor Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of items for kids to find around the house, keeping them active and entertained.
- Building Towers: Using blocks or other materials, building towers can help kids with their fine motor skills and concentration.
- Hand Balance Games: Games that require kids to balance items on their hands or heads can be both fun and challenging.
- Tape Games: Use painter’s tape to create a variety of games on the floor, like hopscotch or obstacle courses.
- Simon Says: A classic game that encourages kids to follow instructions and pay attention.
- Hide and Seek: Always a favorite, this game can be played indoors or outdoors and helps kids develop their problem-solving skills.
According to the CDC, physical activity can help improve attention, behavior, and academic performance in kids with ADHD. Additionally, a study by the Journal of Attention Disorders found that structured play activities can significantly improve focus and social skills in kids with ADHD.
Try Goally For Your Child With ADHD
Goally is an excellent option for many families that have a child with ADHD. Use game play as a points-based motivator for your kiddo with ADHD, help them learn emotional regulation skills, and watch them grow! It’s simple to set up and has an expert-informed design.
Finding the right games for kids with ADHD can make a significant difference in their focus, behavior, and overall enjoyment. Whether it’s fast-paced card games, engaging board games, or active physical games, these activities provide both fun and developmental benefits. By incorporating these games into daily routines, parents can help their kids channel their energy positively and build essential skills.
Resources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- ADDitude Magazine
- CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
FAQs About Games for Kids With ADHD
What are some good games for kids with ADHD? Some good games for kids with ADHD include tag, hide-and-seek, Simon Says, and obstacle courses. These games help improve focus, attention, and physical activity. How do games help children with ADHD? Games can help children with ADHD by providing structure, routine, and a fun way to practice skills such as impulse control, attention, and social interaction. Are board games helpful for kids with ADHD? Yes, board games can be helpful for kids with ADHD as they can improve social skills, strategic thinking, and patience. Some good options include Chess, Checkers, and Memory games. Can video games help kids with ADHD? Yes, certain video games can be helpful for kids with ADHD as they can improve attention, focus, and decision-making skills. Some good options include puzzle games, rhythm games, and action games that require quick thinking. How can parents incorporate games into a child's ADHD treatment plan? Parents can incorporate games into a child's ADHD treatment plan by setting aside dedicated game time, choosing games that target specific skills, and creating a structured routine around gameplay. They can also work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes games as a therapeutic tool.
This post was originally published on 03/02/2022. It was updated on 06/07/2024.
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