When you think about paper games, it might take a moment for memories to resurface. This is probably because it’s been ages since you last played them. Paper games were all the rage in elementary and middle school, but their popularity waned with the rise of smartphones—much easier to tote around than a notebook! However, paper games are still fantastic for adding extra fun during a road trip or on a rainy vacation day. Plus, who can resist the joy of folded paper games? They’re a timeless reminder that all you need is a bit of creativity and imagination to entertain your kids (and yourself, honestly).
Wondering which paper games to introduce to your little ones? Here are 13 that are sure to delight. And if you find yourself having just as much fun as they do, consider that a win!
Paper Games to Enjoy at Home
- Tic-Tac-Toe
This timeless classic is a favorite even today. Simply draw a grid with two horizontal lines and two diagonal lines. Players alternate marking the boxes with an X or an O, aiming to be the first to get three in a row. While it might not be the most thrilling game, it’s a huge hit with younger kids and can help develop their logical thinking. - Hangman
Another enduring favorite, Hangman also offers educational benefits. For a twist with adults, use funny inside jokes as your words. With kids, you can have them guess what’s for dinner or where you’re going for the weekend. - Snowman
For a cheerier option, try Snowman, which follows similar rules to Hangman. Instead of drawing a stick figure, you’ll create a snowman with each incorrect guess. - Dots and Boxes
To play Dots and Boxes, use grid paper filled with dots. Players take turns connecting the dots, with the goal of forming squares. Close a square, and put your initials in it. This strategic game can lead to some intense moments. - MASH
MASH (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House) is undoubtedly the most beloved nostalgic game. Start by writing “MASH” at the top of your paper. List potential partners, number of children, types of cars, careers, and possible locations. Have your co-player pick a number (preferably between 1 and 20), then cross out items until one option remains in each category, revealing their predicted future. - Racetrack
If your little one loves Lightning McQueen from Cars, they will enjoy Racetrack. Represent cars with symbols like Xs and Os. Each player marks their starting point on squared paper, and strategic moves are essential to avoid “crashing.” - Sprouts
Similar to Dots and Boxes, Sprouts is less structured. Start with a few dots and take turns either connecting them with lines or adding new dots. The game ends when a player can no longer make a move. - Word Finder
One player writes six random letters on paper (don’t forget at least one vowel!). Set a timer, and the player who forms the most words wins. - Paper Fortune Telling
This game might seem complex compared to MASH, but it’s a delightful throwback. Creating a paper fortune teller can be daunting at first, but once you master it, the nostalgia will flood back. - Pictionary
If you enjoy drawing, Pictionary is perfect! Have someone outside the game think of funny situations or objects for you to illustrate while others guess what it is. - Create-a-Story
Great for groups, start with two opening sentences and fold the paper to hide the first sentence from the next player. They’ll add their sentence, and at the end, you read the story to see how it turned out. - Categories
Similar to Scattergories, divide your paper into four categories chosen by the group, such as names or animals. Pick a letter, and everyone writes as many words as possible. The player with the most unique answers wins. - Paper Telephone
Everyone lines up with paper and pen. The last person draws an image using the back of the person in front of them for support. They then recreate it on their paper, leading to hilarious comparisons at the end. - Word Scrambles
Jumble up a word’s letters on a piece of paper. The first person to guess the original word wins. Add some excitement by setting a time limit! - Sightless Drawings
Try drawing with your eyes closed! In this game, one player is blindfolded and must draw a simple item. The results are compared by judges, and the most accurate wins.
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In summary, paper games are a delightful way to spark creativity and have fun with kids. They bring back sweet memories while providing entertainment that requires nothing but paper and imagination.