Fun and Learning: 20 Amazing Activities and Games for Kids Aged 8 to 10

Do 8–10-year-olds still enjoy playing with parents or babysitters? Absolutely, if you suggest the right activities. This age group thrives on games that allow them to express themselves creatively, boost their self-esteem, and remain curious. Their afternoons may be filled with lessons, sports, or schoolwork, but carving out time for play is still worthwhile.

What games are best for ages 8 to 10? The key is to offer age-appropriate challenges: not too easy, not too hard. At this stage, kids often have strong opinions about what they like or don’t like, and many see some toys as “too babyish.” Their fine motor skills are well developed—they can shuffle cards (sometimes, after some practice), cut and glue with precision, and follow game instructions. They can also stay focused longer, wait their turn, and grasp more complex board game rules that require strategy.

Suggesting a new activity to this age group can be tricky, but if you match the game to their interests, you’ll likely enjoy some quality time together.

Why play matters at 8–10 years old

Even as their interests mature, play is still critical for growth. At this age, kids may be less into pretend play, but they’re ready for creative, hands-on projects and games that help them: develop creativity by imagining and building things with their hands, discover the joy of learning by mastering a new skill—like origami, crochet, or chess—which encourages curiosity and perseverance, build self-esteem through challenges where they feel competent, exercise logic through strategic games like chess or card games that require reasoning and decision-making, and learn to use the internet wisely, such as watching a how-to video on origami or following a basic coding tutorial.

Games and activities for 8–10-year-olds

Here’s a list of games and activities ideal for kids in this age range. Not every idea will work for every child. Consider their personality, interests, and even what skills they might need help developing. For example, a child who struggles with organization might benefit from starting a collection, while a shy child might enjoy creating their own storybook.

Card games

This age is perfect for introducing card games. Kids see card games as “grown-up” fun and are often eager to learn. In addition to simple games like Go Fish or Old Maid, they’re ready to try classics like Crazy Eights, War, Uno, and even more strategic ones like Rummy or Briscola. If they lose interest, they can switch to building card towers for a different kind of challenge. Check out this video to see how to play Go Fish.

Board games

Board games like Monopoly, Risk, Scrabble, Taboo, Chess, or Checkers become engaging at this stage. Kids are now able to understand complex rules, patiently take turns, and stick with a game for longer periods. Board games help build focus, strategic thinking, and emotional resilience. They’re also great gift ideas. Older kids might enjoy more strategic games like Nim or Mastermind. These games are excellent for developing logical thinking. Here is how to play Nim.

You can even create your own board game together! Design a board on cardboard, make game pieces from clay or coloured stones, or find printable templates online. For kids who love inventing, challenge them to create a brand-new game.

Paper and pencil games

 Some of the best low-tech games still just need a notebook and a pencil. To make it special, designate a “game notebook” with a decorated label. Classic favourites like Hangman, Tic Tac Toe, Battleship, and Categories (Name, Place, Animal, Thing) are perfect for this age.

Origami

 All you need are some coloured paper sheets and a simple YouTube tutorial to start. Origami is ideal for 8–10-year-olds because they now have the dexterity and patience to follow folding instructions. Start with easy shapes like a jumping frog or paper swan, then move to more detailed creations. It helps kids practise precision, focus, and fine motor control—all useful for school tasks too. You can even make themed origami collections or gifts for friends and family.

Crochet, weaving, and crafts

Kids love the sense of accomplishment that comes from finishing a DIY project. Simple crochet, cardboard looms, or even pom-poms and yarn bracelets are all great starting points. You can create a rectangular loom with a shoebox or a circular one with skewers—plenty of step-by-step ideas are available online.

Starting a collection

Many kids start to enjoy collecting things around this age. You can suggest starting a no-cost collection based on their interests: coloured stones, pressed flowers, bottle caps, or postcards. The key is teaching them how to organize it—using clear boxes, labelled containers, or even a catalogue notebook. It’s a great exercise in order, comparison, and attention to detail.

Model building

 Miniature construction is a fantastic activity for kids who enjoy crafting and problem-solving. They can try assembling and painting small model cars, airplanes, or buildings. You can purchase an easy kit or start a DIY project together, like building a cardboard city, crafting doll furniture, or designing a fantasy world with popsicle sticks and fabric scraps. Or maybe a marble run?

Magic tricks

Magic is a hit at this age. Kids have the coordination and focus to practise card or coin tricks until they master them. You’ll find tons of beginner-friendly tutorials online. All they need are a few props and a little patience.

Creative writing

 While not exactly a “game,” writing can become a rewarding activity when tied to the child’s interests. You might help them start a storybook, a comic strip, a birdwatching log, a recipe journal, or even a poetry book. Sports lovers can keep a journal about their favourite team. Writing becomes a source of joy when linked to personal expression instead of just schoolwork.

Cooking

Making a snack or dinner with a parent or sitter is fun and confidence-boosting. Kids love the result and enjoy feeling “grown-up.” Just make sure you have all the ingredients and time before starting, and assign tasks that are safe and age-appropriate.

Intro to coding

 At this age, many children love video games. You can channel that interest into something constructive by introducing basic coding. Try Hour of Code or Scratch, where they can create animations or games with Disney characters. These platforms make coding feel like play and teach valuable digital literacy skills.

You’ll find plenty more game ideas for 8–10 year olds in our posts about water games, 15 outdoor games for kids, and 101 fun indoor activities and games.