40+ Fun Conversation Games For Kids
Sometimes children need a little bit of encouragement when it comes to getting their thoughts into words, and conversation games can help.
It can be eye opening to find out what broke you children’s heart, even if it seems silly to you, it’s a big deal to them. Having that conversation opens up the opportunity to really connect and be there for your child in their times of sadness, no matter how ridiculous you might believe the problem is.
Building a solid foundation with kids when they are younger will help parents connect with children as they get older, and the kids will be more inclined to share all the things that their world is made up of without being shy, or scared.
Not to mention is helps build up their emotional intelligence as well as promote children’s communication skills.
We all want what’s best for our children, and it starts at home, through a simple social skills game and fun conversations that don’t involve screen time. These are also great for road trips as a fun way to pass the time.
Here are the best dinnertime conversation starters and games to get your chirpy little chatterbox to open up and start chatting.
This post may contain affiliate links. Full privacy policy and disclosure here.
40+ Fun Conversation Games For Children
Would You Rather
Players are given two difficult choices and must decide which they would rather do. It’s a great way for players to learn about each other’s preferences and reasoning.
Hide And Speak
One player hides and then speaks, sings, or makes noise while the others try to find them based on the sound.
Story A – Z
Players collaboratively tell a story, with each sentence starting with the consecutive letter of the alphabet.
Questions Only
Participants have a conversation where they can only speak in questions. If someone makes a statement, they are out.
The Famous Person Game
Each player takes turns describing a famous person without using their name or obvious clues, and the others guess who it is.
That’s How We Roll
Roll dice with different subjects or scenarios. Players must tell a story or make a statement based on the roll.
Secret Message
One player writes a secret message on a piece of paper and passes it to the next player, who adds to it. The last person reads it out loud.
Story Starter Hot Potato
Players pass an object around as music plays. When the music stops, the person holding the object must add to a collective story.
Name Ten in Ten
Challenge players to name ten items fitting a certain category (like animals, foods, etc.) in ten seconds.
Speed Speak
Set a timer, and players must speak on a given topic without hesitation, repetition, or deviation until time runs out.
Rory’s Story Cubes
Roll dice with pictures on each side. Players create a story based on the images that face up.
The Grateful Game
Players take turns sharing something they are grateful for. It encourages positive thinking and listening skills.
Trait Roulette
Create a list of character traits. Players take turns spinning a wheel or drawing a trait and then discussing someone they know (real or fictional) who embodies that trait.
Find Your Partner
Each player receives a card that is part of a pair (e.g., salt and pepper). They must ask yes/no questions to find their partner.
My Name Is Anne
A variation of “I’m going on a picnic,” where each player must remember and add to a growing list of names and associated items starting with the next letter of the alphabet.
I Spy
One player chooses an object within sight and gives a clue, usually starting with “I spy with my little eye something that begins with [first letter of the object’s name].”
Human Experience Bingo
Create bingo cards with various experiences or traits. Players mingle and find people who have done the things listed on their card.
Fact or Fiction
Players take turns making statements. The others guess whether the statement is a fact or a work of fiction.
The Art Of Children’s Conversation
A structured discussion game where children pull cards with conversational prompts focusing on various topics and scenarios.
Thoughts and Feelings – A Sentence Completion Card Game
Players draw cards with sentence starters related to thoughts and feelings and complete them with their own ending.
Answer Fast
Players are asked a question and must answer as quickly as possible without overthinking.
I Like You Because…
Players take turns telling others why they like them or something specific they appreciate about them, fostering positive communication.
The Elevator Game!
Players pretend they are in an elevator meeting different people at each floor, and they have to engage in quick, polite conversation until they reach their “stop.”
This or That
Similar to “Would You Rather,” but usually with simpler and quicker choices. Players choose between two options and can explain their choice.
Charades
In Charades, one player silently acts out a word or phrase, and the others try to guess what it is. The actor cannot speak or use verbal cues.
Telephone
Players sit in a line or circle. The first player whispers a message to the next person, and it’s passed down the line. The last person says the message out loud to see how much it has changed.
Pictionary
Players draw a word or phrase on paper while their team tries to guess what it is within a set time limit. No speaking or gestures are allowed.
20 Questions
One player thinks of an object, and the others ask up to 20 yes/no questions to guess what it is.
Word Association
Players take turns saying a word related to the word that was just said. The connections can be as creative as they like.
Alphabet Story
Players create a story together. Each sentence of the story starts with the next letter of the alphabet, beginning with A and ending with Z.
What’s in the Box?
Place an object in a box. Players take turns feeling the object without looking and guess what it is.
Mystery Drawing
One player draws something while others cannot see. The drawer describes the drawing without naming it, and others try to draw it based on the description.
Two Truths and a Lie
Each player says three statements about themselves: two truths and one lie. The others guess which one is the lie.
Picture Storytelling
A player shows a picture, and each participant adds to a story inspired by the image.
Emotion Charades
Similar to Charades, but players act out different emotions instead of words or phrases.
Pass the Story
Start a story with a sentence, and each player adds a sentence to it. The story can go in any direction.
Word Relay
Players sit in a circle. The first player says a word, and the next player must say a word that starts with the last letter of the previous word.
Descriptive Drawing
One player describes an object without naming it, and the others draw what they think is being described.
Conversation Jenga
Write conversation starters on Jenga blocks. When a player pulls a block, they must answer the question before placing the block on top.
Role Play Scenarios
Create different scenarios and have the kids act them out. This helps in understanding different perspectives and expressing themselves.
Guess the Sound
Play different sounds, and children have to guess what they are. It enhances listening skills.
Build a Story
Players sit in a circle. The first player starts a story with one sentence, and each subsequent player adds a sentence.
Who Am I?
Players draw the name of a famous person or character and without looking, stick it on their forehead. They ask yes/no questions to guess who they are.
Memory Chain Game
The first player says a word. The next player repeats the first word and adds their own. Each player repeats all previous words in sequence and adds a new one.
Conversation Games For Kids Benefits And Outcomes
There are great benefits to playing conversation games with kids, it shows that you are interested in their interests, opens lines of communication, makes conversation flow easy, creates family traditions and memories.
Shows Your Interest In Them
Having conversations around your children’s interests shows your child that you really do care about their interests, even if it’s difficult to listen to. You’re showing them that you care about their likes and dislikes and you’re showing them that they are seen and heard by you.
Conversation games for kids feed into the human need that everyone has for being seen and heard which helps children feel a large sense of belonging and comfort. When you engage in conversations they truly believe that parents have a good understanding of the child which helps with brain development, emotional regulation which is an important life skill.
Opens Up Communication Lines
When you start a conversation with your little one, you’re likely not going to stay on the subject you started out on. Starting a conversation about favorite animals and even another favorite thing can lead to fears they could be having or successes they haven’t yet shared with you. These are effective communication skills that are very important for kids to know.
The dinner conversation starter is just the starter, the momentum happens through engaging and continuing the talk. Positive parents like you and me, want our children to grow up to be kind and successful, and we will do anything we can to teach our kids important conversation skills.
The reality is, children will not come out and tell you about their problems, or they rarely will if they do come out with it. This is where conversation games for kids create an opening for the portal of conversation.
Makes Conversation Flow Easy
Because conversation games for kids open up the lines of conversation, they do in turn make the flow of conversing nice and easy too with easy conversation topic ideas.
Creates Family Traditions And Memories
My kids seem to remember anything and everything that is even the silliest thing and some of the conversations that come out of these conversations games are hilarious and ridiculous, which is FUN and exciting!
How fun would it be knowing that one day when your kids are older, they will want to play conversation games with their own kids simply because of the memories and traditions that were created with your family when they were younger.
Kids remember the silliest, and most fun things from their childhood, and very rarely remember the negative aspects, which makes your job as a parent pretty simple, as long as you try and raise children who are happy, well balanced and having fun while using positive discipline to teach important lessons.
The Power Of Play
Board games and table topics are a simple and fun way to engage in critical thinking and team building exercises, both in small groups and big groups. Not only do they provide an opportunity for interesting facts and interesting questions, but they can also serve as a conversation starter for fun and stimulating discussions.
One of the best things about board games and table topics is the variety of topics they cover, from word play and alphabet games to classic games and conversation starter cards. These games appeal to all ages, from children to older kids and adults. They are a valuable opportunity for families to bond and for classroom discussions in high school.
One example of a fun and engaging game is the “BestSelf Co.” conversation starter cards. These cards come in a pack of Christmas-themed conversation questions, perfect for holiday gatherings with friends and family. The questions range from light-hearted and fun, such as “What is your favorite Christmas movie?” to more thought-provoking questions like “What do you think is the most important thing to keep in mind during the holiday season?”
Another great game is “Fun Memory Game” by Karen Conklin. This game is perfect for families with young children and is a valuable tool for helping children develop their memory and recall skills. It is also a great conversation starter for parents to learn more about their child’s life and interests.
Playing board games and table topics is a great way to put away the cell phone and have a good laugh with friends and family. It’s a fun and easy way to spend time together, without the need for a lot of planning or preparation. The next time you’re looking for a fun conversation starter or team building exercise, consider breaking out a board game or pack of conversation starter cards.
As we know, playing games is a powerful way to spend time together and learn new things. It’s a way to build conversation and connection, whether you’re playing alone or with a partner. The next time you’re looking for a way to spend your time, consider trying one of these games, and you’ll see the power of play in action.
Creating Memories With The Best Conversation Games
In conclusion, conversation games for kids are a great way to make dinner time more engaging and meaningful. These games offer a better way to connect with the entire family and create a fun memory game that everyone can enjoy.
Instead of playing video games or browsing through social media, playing cards or other conversation games can help establish a strong relationship and foster valuable insight into the thoughts and feelings of each family member.
These simple question games can also help kids open up about their day or any other topic that they may be having a hard time discussing. The game appeal of these conversation games is that they offer a different topic each time, ensuring that the entire family has something to talk about.
Whether it’s the first player or the next player, each person can participate and share their thoughts without fear of giving a wrong answer. The games mentioned above, such as Would You Rather, Story Starter Hot Potato, and I Spy, require little work to set up and can be played with a group of people. Even short message games like Secret Message and Answer Fast can offer valuable insight into the different personalities and interests of each family member.
Need more? Here is another pack of christmas-themed conversation questions and trivia fun you can play with a group of people or with your kids.
FAQ
What’s a fun conversation starter for kids?
A great conversation starter for kids is to ask about their favorite hobbies or interests. For example, you could say, “What do you love to do for fun?”
This opens up the conversation and allows the child to share their passions, whether it’s a sport, a favorite book or movie, a hobby, or even a unique talent they possess.
Kids often enjoy talking about the things they love, and this question encourages them to express themselves and engage in an enjoyable conversation.
It also provides an opportunity to learn more about their personalities and build a stronger connection with them.
How can I help my child with conversation?
To help your child with conversation, encourage active listening and provide opportunities for regular communication.
Engage in meaningful discussions, asking open-ended questions to stimulate their curiosity and critical thinking. Be a good role model by displaying attentive listening, maintaining eye contact, and being patient when they speak.
Create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Foster their vocabulary and communication skills through reading together and playing word games.
Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, showing genuine interest in what they say.
By nurturing their communication abilities, you’ll boost their confidence and help them become effective communicators throughout their lives.
How do you help a quiet child speak up?
Helping a quiet child speak up involves creating a safe and supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Avoid pushing or pressuring them to talk but instead, show patience and understanding. Engage in one-on-one conversations, giving them ample time to respond.
Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Use open-ended questions and show genuine interest in what they have to say.
Provide opportunities for social interactions, such as playdates or group activities, to gradually build their confidence.
Praise their efforts when they do speak up, boosting their self-esteem. Celebrate small victories and be a positive role model for effective communication.
How do you make small talk fun?
To make small talk fun, try to add some creativity and humor to the conversation. Use light-hearted and interesting topics, such as recent movies, hobbies, or travel experiences.
Ask open-ended questions that encourage engaging responses and show genuine curiosity in the other person’s answers.
Share funny anecdotes or stories that relate to the topic at hand, but keep them brief to maintain the flow of the conversation.
Use positive body language and maintain good eye contact to create a friendly atmosphere.
Avoid controversial or sensitive topics, and instead, focus on finding common ground and shared interests. Remember, the key is to keep it light, enjoyable, and relaxed.
Get Your Free Download
Take your parenting journey to the next level with our comprehensive ebook on Connected Parenting.
Download this ebook now and embark on a transformative parenting experience that will strengthen your bond with your child and bring joy and fulfillment to your family life.
Download Here
More Like This
The Best Questions To Ask Kids to Learn More About Them
6 Important Actions To Strengthen The Parent-Child Relationship
The Secret to Getting Your Kids to Listen: 6 Proven Tips for Effective Communication
References
- “Grasping the Grammar with Moovy: a Tangible User Interface to Train Linguistic Skills in Children” discusses Moovy, a table-top game designed to improve language skills in children, showing potential in speech-therapy programs and fostering children’s willingness to continue therapy (Beccaluva et al., 2022).
- “Talk With Me, Communication With The Multi-Handicapped Deaf” outlines nearly 100 projects, games, and activities for communicating with deaf-blind children, focusing on leisure time and non-structured educational environments (Kessler, 2013).
- “Could Computer Games-based Problem Solving Positively Affect the Development of Creativity in Young Children? A Mixed Method Case Study” highlights the impact of an open-ended problem-solving digital game on kindergarten children’s creativity and self-efficacy (Fessakis et al., 2015).
- “Exploring Fantasy Play in MathMythos AR” presents MathMythos AR, an augmented reality card-based math addition game fostering motivation for learning math through fantasy narratives (Zuo et al., 2020).
- “Using the Humanoid Robot KASPAR to Autonomously Play Triadic Games and Facilitate Collaborative Play Among Children With Autism” shows how the KASPAR robot can foster collaborative play and improve social behaviors in children with autism (Wainer et al., 2014).
- “Learning Landscapes: Playing the Way to Learning and Engagement in Public Spaces” discusses creating playful learning experiences in public spaces to foster learning and engagement for children, especially from under-resourced communities (Hassinger-Das et al., 2018).
- “Fostering Social Engagement in Romanian Children with Communicative Impairments: The Experiences of Newly Trained Practitioners of Intensive Interaction” emphasizes the effectiveness of the ‘Intensive Interaction’ technique in enhancing communicative abilities in socially withdrawn children (Zeedyk et al., 2009).