Number games are a fantastic way to help kids improve their math skills while having fun. These activities can enhance counting, addition, subtraction, and problem-solving abilities without the need for expensive materials or complex setups.
From classic favorites like Bingo to creative challenges like Number Scavenger Hunts, these games are both educational and entertaining.
Here are 25 free and easy number games that will keep kids engaged and learning.
Number Games for Kids
1. Number Bingo
Number Bingo is similar to traditional Bingo but uses numbers instead of words. Players receive Bingo cards with numbers on them and mark the numbers as they are called out. The first player to mark a complete row, column, or diagonal wins. This game reinforces number recognition and listening skills and can be customized for different number ranges.
Instructions:
- Create Bingo cards with numbers instead of words.
- Prepare a list of numbers to call out.
- Players mark the numbers on their cards as they are called out.
- The first player to mark a complete row, column, or diagonal wins.
2. Number Scavenger Hunt
Number Scavenger Hunt is an active game where players search for items that have specific numbers on them or come in specific quantities. Each player or team is given a list of numbers and must find objects that match each number on the list. This game encourages observation skills, counting, and physical activity. It can be played indoors or outdoors.
Instructions:
- Create a list of numbers for the scavenger hunt.
- Players or teams search for items that have those numbers on them or come in those quantities.
- Set a time limit for the hunt.
- The game ends when time is up, and the player or team with the most items found wins.
3. Hopscotch with Numbers
Hopscotch with Numbers involves drawing a hopscotch grid with numbers in each square instead of the traditional blank squares. Players take turns hopping through the grid, calling out the numbers as they land on each square. This game helps with number recognition, sequencing, and physical coordination. It can be played on any flat surface with chalk or tape.
Instructions:
- Draw a hopscotch grid with numbers in each square.
- Players take turns tossing a marker onto the grid and hopping through the numbers.
- As they hop, players call out the numbers they land on.
- The game continues until all players have had a turn or reached the end of the grid.
4. Number Matching
Number Matching involves creating pairs of cards with numbers and corresponding quantities (e.g., a card with the number “5” and a card with five dots). Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find matching pairs. This game enhances number recognition, counting skills, and memory. It can be easily made with paper and markers.
Instructions:
- Create pairs of cards with numbers and corresponding quantities.
- Lay the cards face down in a grid.
- Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find matching pairs.
- The game continues until all pairs are found, and the player with the most pairs wins.
5. Counting Games with Everyday Objects
Counting Games with Everyday Objects involve using items around the house, like buttons, coins, or toys, to practice counting and basic arithmetic. Players can count the objects, sort them into groups, or use them for simple addition and subtraction problems. This game is versatile and can be adapted to different skill levels. It promotes counting, number recognition, and basic math skills.
Instructions:
- Gather everyday objects, such as buttons, coins, or toys.
- Players count the objects, sort them into groups, or use them for addition and subtraction problems.
- For added challenge, set specific counting tasks or math problems to solve.
- The game can be played individually or with others, with players taking turns.
6. Number Line Jump
Number Line Jump involves drawing a number line on the ground and having players jump to different numbers based on instructions. This game helps with number recognition, sequencing, and understanding of number order. It can be played indoors or outdoors using chalk or tape to create the number line.
Instructions:
- Draw a number line on the ground with chalk or tape, numbering each step.
- Call out different numbers, and have players jump to the corresponding number.
- To make it more challenging, give simple math problems, and have players jump to the answer.
- The game continues until all players have had several turns or as long as interest holds.
7. Roll and Add
Roll and Add is a simple game where players roll dice and add the numbers together. It helps children practice addition and number recognition. This game is quick, easy to set up, and can be played anywhere with a pair of dice.
Instructions:
- Each player takes turns rolling two dice.
- Players add the numbers on the dice and say the total out loud.
- For a competitive twist, the player with the highest total after a set number of rounds wins.
- The game can also be adapted to include more dice or higher numbers as skills improve.
8. Number Puzzle
Number Puzzle involves solving puzzles that require arranging numbers in the correct order or finding the missing number in a sequence. These puzzles can range from simple to complex, depending on the age and skill level of the players. This game enhances logical thinking, sequencing, and problem-solving skills.
Instructions:
- Create or find number puzzles suitable for the players’ skill levels.
- Puzzles can include tasks like arranging numbers in order, completing a number sequence, or solving a number grid.
- Players work individually or in teams to solve the puzzles.
- The game continues until all puzzles are solved, and players can compete to see who solves them the fastest.
9. Math Bingo
Math Bingo combines traditional Bingo with basic math problems. Players have Bingo cards with answers to math problems, and the caller reads out the problems. Players solve the problems and mark the corresponding answers on their cards. This game reinforces math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Instructions:
- Create Bingo cards with the answers to various math problems.
- Prepare a list of math problems to call out.
- Players solve the math problems and mark the answers on their Bingo cards.
- The first player to mark a complete row, column, or diagonal wins.
10. Domino Math
Domino Math uses dominoes to practice addition, subtraction, or multiplication. Players draw dominoes and perform math operations using the numbers on the dominoes. This game helps with number recognition, basic arithmetic, and strategic thinking.
Instructions:
- Use a set of dominoes for the game.
- Players draw a domino and add, subtract, or multiply the numbers on each side.
- For a competitive version, players can keep score based on correct answers or highest totals.
- The game continues until all dominoes are used or a set number of rounds is completed.
11. Number Toss
Number Toss is a physical game where players toss bean bags or small balls into numbered containers, aiming to achieve a specific total or score. This game combines physical activity with number recognition and basic math skills. It’s perfect for outdoor play or a large indoor space.
Instructions:
- Label several containers with different numbers.
- Players take turns tossing bean bags or balls into the containers.
- Add up the numbers on the containers to get a score for each turn.
- Set a target score, and the first player to reach it wins.
12. Math Hopscotch
Math Hopscotch combines traditional hopscotch with basic math problems. Players hop through a grid with numbers and solve a math problem when they land on a specific square. This game promotes physical activity, number recognition, and arithmetic skills.
Instructions:
- Draw a hopscotch grid with numbers and math symbols.
- Players take turns hopping through the grid, solving math problems as they land on numbered squares.
- For added difficulty, call out specific math problems for players to solve while hopping.
- The game continues until all players have had a turn or as long as interest holds.
13. Counting Catch
Counting Catch is a game where players count aloud as they pass a ball or other object back and forth. This game can be adapted to practice counting by ones, twos, fives, tens, or any other interval. It’s a simple and fun way to reinforce counting skills and coordination.
Instructions:
- Players stand in a circle or facing each other.
- One player starts by saying “one” and tossing the ball to another player.
- The next player catches the ball, says the next number, and tosses it to another player.
- Continue counting and tossing until a predetermined number is reached or players make a mistake.
14. Place Value Game
The Place Value Game helps players understand the concept of place value by using cards or objects to represent ones, tens, and hundreds. Players build numbers and compare their values to see who has the highest or lowest number. This game is excellent for developing an understanding of number composition and value.
Instructions:
- Create or use cards representing ones, tens, and hundreds.
- Players draw cards and arrange them to form the highest or lowest possible number.
- Compare the numbers, and the player with the highest or lowest number wins.
- For a more advanced version, include thousands or decimal places.
15. Sudoku for Kids
Sudoku for Kids is a simplified version of the classic Sudoku puzzle, using smaller grids and simpler numbers. Players fill in the missing numbers in a grid so that each row, column, and section contains all the numbers within the set. This game enhances logical thinking, number recognition, and problem-solving skills.
Instructions:
- Provide a 4×4 or 6×6 Sudoku grid with some numbers already filled in.
- Players fill in the missing numbers, ensuring each row, column, and section contains all the numbers from the set (e.g., 1-4 or 1-6).
- Check the completed puzzle for accuracy.
- The game is complete when the grid is correctly filled in.
16. Number Line Race
Number Line Race is a game where players move along a number line based on the results of rolling dice. This game helps kids understand number sequencing, addition, and subtraction. It can be played with a physical number line on the ground or a drawn number line on paper.
Instructions:
- Draw a number line on the ground or on paper, numbering each step.
- Players roll a die and move forward or backward along the number line based on the roll.
- To add complexity, use two dice and have players add or subtract the numbers rolled.
- The first player to reach the end of the number line wins.
17. Multiplication War
Multiplication War is a card game that helps kids practice their multiplication skills. Players draw cards and multiply the numbers on them, with the highest product winning the round. This game reinforces multiplication facts and quick thinking.
Instructions:
- Use a deck of cards with numbers (remove face cards or assign them values).
- Players draw two cards and multiply the numbers.
- The player with the highest product wins the round and takes the cards.
- Continue playing until the deck is used up; the player with the most cards wins.
18. Number Memory Match
Number Memory Match involves creating pairs of cards with numbers and corresponding addition, subtraction, or multiplication problems. Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find matching pairs. This game enhances memory, number recognition, and arithmetic skills.
Instructions:
- Create pairs of cards with numbers and corresponding math problems (e.g., 5 and 2+3).
- Lay the cards face down in a grid.
- Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find matching pairs.
- The game continues until all pairs are found, and the player with the most pairs wins.
19. Skip Counting Jump Rope
Skip Counting Jump Rope is a physical game where players skip count (e.g., by 2s, 5s, or 10s) while jumping rope. This game combines physical activity with counting practice, making it both fun and educational.
Instructions:
- Players start jumping rope and begin skip counting by a chosen number (e.g., 2s).
- Count aloud with each jump, continuing the sequence (2, 4, 6, 8, etc.).
- For added challenge, set a goal number to reach or vary the skip counting intervals.
- The game ends when the player misses a jump or reaches the target number.
20. Math Simon Says
Math Simon Says adds a math twist to the classic Simon Says game. The leader gives math-related commands, and players must only follow the commands if they start with “Simon says.” This game promotes listening skills, quick thinking, and basic math practice.
Instructions:
- One player is designated as “Simon” and gives commands to the other players.
- Commands should include math-related actions (e.g., “Simon says add 2+3”).
- Players only follow the command if it starts with “Simon says.”
- If a player follows a command without “Simon says,” they are out. The game continues until one player remains.
21. Number Dominoes
Number Dominoes is a game where players match dominoes with numbers or dots that add up to a certain value. This game helps kids practice addition, number recognition, and strategic thinking. It’s a fun and interactive way to reinforce math skills.
Instructions:
- Use a set of dominoes with numbers or dots.
- Players take turns matching dominoes by connecting those with the same number of dots or numbers that add up to a certain value.
- The game continues until all dominoes are used or no more matches can be made.
- The player with the most matches or the highest total value of matches wins.
22. Number Bowling
Number Bowling is a game where players bowl at pins labeled with numbers and add up the numbers of the pins they knock down. This game combines physical activity with addition practice, making it both fun and educational.
Instructions:
- Label each bowling pin with a number.
- Players take turns rolling a ball to knock down the pins.
- After each turn, players add up the numbers on the pins they knocked down.
- The player with the highest total score after a set number of rounds wins.
23. Math Relay Race
Math Relay Race involves teams solving math problems to advance in a relay race. Each correct answer allows the team to move forward, combining physical activity with math practice. This game promotes teamwork, quick thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Instructions:
- Divide players into teams and set up a relay course.
- Prepare math problems for each team to solve at different points in the course.
- Teams solve the math problems to advance to the next point in the relay.
- The first team to complete the course wins.
24. Counting Bean Bags
Counting Bean Bags is a game where players toss bean bags into numbered targets and add up their scores. This game helps with number recognition, addition, and hand-eye coordination. It’s a simple and engaging activity for kids of all ages.
Instructions:
- Set up targets labeled with different numbers.
- Players take turns tossing bean bags into the targets.
- Players add up the numbers on the targets they hit to get their score.
- The player with the highest score after a set number of rounds wins.
25. Number Detective
Number Detective is a game where players solve number-based puzzles or riddles to find a hidden number. This game encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and number recognition. It’s a fun and challenging activity that can be played individually or in groups.
Instructions:
- Create number-based puzzles or riddles for the players to solve.
- Players work individually or in teams to solve the puzzles and find the hidden number.
- Provide clues or hints if players get stuck.
- The game ends when the hidden number is found, and the player or team that solves the most puzzles wins.
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]