When you think about paper games, it may take a moment for memories to surface. That’s probably because it’s been a while since you’ve engaged in them. Paper games were staples of elementary and middle school, and their popularity waned primarily due to the rise of smartphones, which are far easier to tote around than a notebook. However, these games can still bring a smile to your face while providing entertainment on road trips or during rainy vacations. Whether they’re folded or drawn, paper games remain a source of endless fun. They remind us that all you need is a bit of creativity to keep both kids and adults engaged.
If you’re unsure where to start, here are 13 paper games that will delight your little ones — and you might enjoy them just as much!
Paper Games to Play at Home
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Tic-Tac-Toe
This timeless classic is simple yet enjoyable. Create a grid with two horizontal and two diagonal lines, and players alternate marking the boxes with Xs and Os. The goal is to get three in a row. While it may not be the most exhilarating game, younger kids often love it. Plus, it helps develop logical thinking skills. -
Hangman
Another enduring favorite, Hangman has educational benefits for kids. Adults can make it humorous by using private jokes as words. When playing with kids, have them guess words related to dinner plans or weekend outings. -
Snowman
For a more cheerful twist, try Snowman. It follows the same rules as Hangman, but instead of a stick figure, each incorrect guess results in drawing a part of a snowman. -
Dots and Boxes
This game uses grid paper filled with dots. Players take turns connecting the dots, aiming to form squares. The player who completes a square writes their initials inside it. It’s a strategic game that can lead to intense moments! -
MASH
MASH is perhaps the most beloved nostalgic paper game. Start by writing “MASH” (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House) at the top of your paper. You can also list potential partners, number of kids, vehicles, occupations, and locations. A player picks a number, and you cross out items until one remains in each category to predict someone’s future. -
Racetrack
If your child loves Lightning McQueen from Cars, they might enjoy Racetrack. Represent cars with symbols like Xs and Os on a square grid. Players strategically mark their starting positions and move through the grid, trying not to “crash.” -
Sprouts
Sprouts is a less structured game. Begin with a few dots on paper, and players can either draw connecting lines or add new dots. The game ends when a player can no longer draw. -
Word Finder
One player writes six random letters on a piece of paper, ensuring at least one vowel is included. Set a timer, and the player who forms the most words from the letters wins. -
Paper Fortune Telling
A bit more complex than MASH, making and using a paper fortune teller is a nostalgic activity. While folding might seem tricky initially, it becomes second nature once you practice. -
Pictionary
If you enjoy drawing, Pictionary is perfect! Have someone outside the game come up with items or scenarios to draw, and see how long it takes for your family to guess based on your artwork. -
Create-a-Story
Ideal for groups, this game begins with two written sentences. Fold the paper so the next player can only see the last sentence, and they must write a new one. By the end, you’ll read the story aloud and see how it all comes together. -
Categories
Similar to Scattergories, each player divides their paper into four categories like names, animals, and jobs. A letter is chosen, and everyone writes as many words as they can for one minute. The player with the most unique answers wins. -
Paper Telephone
Players stand in a line with paper and pen. The last person draws a picture using the back of the person in front of them as a guide. They then try to recreate that drawing. Once everyone has finished, compare the final images to the original. -
Word Scrambles
Choose a word and jumble its letters. The first player to guess the correct word wins! You can even add a time limit to increase the challenge. -
Sightless Drawings
In this game, one team member is blindfolded and must draw a simple object. Afterward, the drawings are judged without revealing who created them to avoid bias.
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Summary
Paper games are a fantastic way to entertain kids while evoking nostalgia for adults. From classics like Tic-Tac-Toe and Hangman to creative games like Create-a-Story and Pictionary, there’s a paper game for everyone. These games require minimal supplies, mainly paper and a writing instrument, making them easy to play anywhere. They not only provide fun but also promote creativity and logical thinking skills.