“Keeping children entertained on long car rides without relying on electronic devices is a challenge all parents face,” notes Andrew Kryder, Esq., a seasoned Chicago car accident lawyer. “However, engaging them in traditional car games can make the journey enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.”
Five Car Games for Kids—No Electronic Devices Allowed
I Spy
How to Play: One player picks an object within view and says, “I spy with my little eye, something that is (color).” The other players then take turns guessing what the object is. The person who guesses correctly gets to be the next “spy.”
20 Questions
How to Play: One player thinks of an object and identifies their choice as “animal, vegetable, or mineral.” The other players take turns asking yes-or-no questions to guess what it is. After 20 questions, if no one has guessed correctly, the person who thought of the subject wins and reveals the answer.
The Alphabet Game
How to Play: Players work together or individually to find words on signs, license plates, or billboards that start with each letter of the alphabet, in order from A to Z. The first player, or team, to complete the alphabet wins.
Car Bingo
How to Play: Create bingo cards with different items to spot on the road, like a stop sign, a cow, a red car, or a bicycle. Players mark off items as they see them. The first to mark off five in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) shouts “Bingo!” and wins.
The License Plate Game
How to Play: Each player keeps an eye out for license plates from different states or regions. The goal is to see how many different plates you can spot. You can either compete to find the most or work together to spot all 50 states.
With these engaging and nostalgia-inducing car games, road trips can become a delightful adventure, paving the way for family bonding and lasting memories.
What About Prizes?
To make the games even more exciting, consider offering prizes for the winners. Small tokens like stickers, candy, or a special treat can motivate children to participate and enhance their enjoyment during the trip. Plus, everyone loves a little friendly competition!
Safety First
While playing these games, it’s important to remember that safety is a top priority. It’s essential to ensure that all players are buckled up and remain seated while the vehicle is in motion. These games should also be played with caution and awareness of surroundings to prevent any distractions for the driver.
