Best Card Games for Kids Ages 5–8 (Games We Actually Play)
- Cristiana Siemens
- Feb 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 21
Card games are one of our favourite low-prep ways to spend time together as a family. They’re easy to pull out after school, on weekends, or when you only have 15–20 minutes to play.
For kids ages 5–8, the best card games are simple to learn, quick to play, and fun enough that kids actually ask to play again. These are the card games we own, play regularly, and keep coming back to.
Card Games We Actually Own and Play
These are the card games we keep reaching for because they're easy to learn, quick to play, and work well for kids ages 5-8.
UNO - familiar and fast-paced
Spot It! - perfect for short attention spans
Skip-Bo - simple rules and great for mixed ages
Go Fish - easy for younger kids to learn and play
Sushi Go! - fun once kids. are ready for slightly more strategy
Dealing Dinos - silly actions and simple turns that keep kids engaged
Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Top Card Games Kids Ages 5–8 Love to Play
UNO
UNO is a classic for a reason. Kids match colours and numbers while slowly learning how action cards change the game.
Why it works well for this age:
Easy rules
Short rounds
Fun for siblings and adults
Parent tip: For younger players, you can remove tougher action cards at first to keep the game relaxed and frustration-free.
👉 You can find UNO here
Spot It!
Spot It! is fast, silly, and perfect when kids have lots of energy. Every card has one matching symbol — kids race to find it first.
Why kids love it:
Quick reaction time
No reading required
Easy to play in short bursts
This is also one of our favourite travel games because it’s small and easy to pack.
👉 You can find Spot it! here
Skip-Bo
Skip-Bo is a great next-step card game for kids who enjoy numbers and sequencing. Players build number stacks in order while managing their own cards.
Why it’s great for ages 6–8:
Builds number recognition
Introduces light strategy
Grows with kids over time
This one works especially well for family game nights when adults want to play too.
👉 You can find Skip-Bo here
Go Fish
Go Fish is often the first card game kids learn, and it’s still one we return to.
Why it’s perfect for younger players:
Simple matching
Turn-taking practice
Easy to teach in minutes
This game is a great confidence-builder for kids just learning how games work.
👉 You can find Go Fish here
Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! adds a bit more strategy while still being very kid-friendly. Players collect matching sushi cards to score points.
Why it works for ages 6–8:
Cute, engaging artwork
Simple scoring system
Encourages planning ahead
This is a fun choice when kids are ready for something slightly more challenging but still playful.
👉 You can find Sushi Go! here
Dealing Dinos
Dealing Dinos is a beginner-friendly strategy game with a fun dinosaur theme. Kids collect dinosaur cards and make simple choices each round.
Why kids love it:
Bright, playful illustrations
Easy counting and math
Short game length
It’s a great option for kids who want something structured but not overwhelming.
👉 You can find Dealing Dinos here
Why Card Games Are So Good for Kids Ages 5–8
Card games help kids practice important skills like:
Taking turns
Following rules
Counting and number sense
Memory and pattern recognition
Handling winning and losing
They’re also easy to store, affordable, and don’t require a big setup — which makes them perfect for real life.
Final Thoughts
Card games are one of the easiest ways to create screen-free connection without a lot of prep. Whether you have five minutes or twenty, these games make it simple to sit down, laugh together, and enjoy time as a family.
Real Life Play. Simple Play. Real Connection. Everyday Moments that Matter.
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