Dice games for kids
Dice games are perfect for children: no reading, quick turns and a lot of luck, so adults don't always win. Most also sneak in some counting and adding. Here are six favorites, from the simplest up, and every one can be played free on this site if you don't have dice handy.
1. Pig
Ages 5+ · 1 die
Teaches adding up and when to stop. One rule to learn: a 1 loses the turn.
How to play Pig (and play it online)
2. Left Right Center
Ages 5+ · 3 special dice or ordinary dice
No decisions at all, so little ones can play with grandparents on equal terms.
How to play Left Right Center (and play it online)
3. Shut the Box
Ages 6+ · 2 dice
Great addition practice: which tiles make 9? Works solo too.
How to play Shut the Box (and play it online)
4. Bunco
Ages 6+ · 3 dice
Count how many dice match the round number. Loud, quick and easy to explain.
How to play Bunco (and play it online)
5. Ship, Captain and Crew
Ages 7+ · 5 dice
Spotting a 6, 5 and 4 in order keeps everyone watching every roll.
How to play Ship, Captain and Crew (and play it online)
6. Farkle
Ages 8+ · 6 dice
More scoring to learn, but older kids love the push-your-luck moments.
How to play Farkle (and play it online)
Tips for playing dice games with kids
- Use big dice, or roll in a tray or box lid so they don't fly off the table.
- Let children keep the score: it's half the learning.
- Shorten the game for little ones: play Pig to 50, or Shut the Box with tiles 1 to 6.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest dice game for kids?
Left Right Center and Pig. LCR has no decisions at all; Pig has one choice (roll again or stop) and a single rule to remember.
What dice games help kids with math?
Shut the Box (making a total from several numbers), Pig and Farkle (adding up a running score) and Bunco (counting matches).
What dice games can a 5-year-old play?
Pig, Left Right Center and a simplified Shut the Box with only the tiles 1 to 6.
