What Doesn't Belong? Thinking Game
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Dive into the engaging world of 'What Doesn't Belong? '—a stimulating thinking game designed to enhance critical thinking skills in children. This fun activity encourages young minds to identify the odd one out among a group of items, fostering observation and reasoning in a playful setting.
Our Top 5 Picks
Concept Game: Engage Minds & Boost Creativity
Our Rank:
Concept Game invites families to enhance their communication and teamwork skills in an engaging way! As parents, we love that this award-winning board game encourages critical thinking and creativity while providing endless fun. Players work together to convey ideas using universal icons, fostering not just a game of guessing but also invaluable skills like collaboration and problem-solving. 10+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Concept Game invites families to convey ideas using universal icons, transforming every game night into a fun learning experience filled with laughter and teamwork.
Monopoly: Strategic Thinking Game
Our Rank:
The Monopoly Board Game is the timeless classic we all know and love, now reimagined for modern family game nights! This game encourages strategic thinking, financial literacy, and decision-making skills as kids aged 8 and up buy, sell, and trade properties while managing their resources. Parents and educators appreciate the way Monopoly transforms gameplay into valuable lessons about money management and social interaction—all while having a blast together! 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Monopoly: Strategic Thinking Game includes a reimagined classic board and teaches kids about money management while they engage in laughter-filled family showdowns.
ThinkFun Puzzle: Brain-Boosting Fun!
Our Rank:
ThinkFun & Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty Puzzle is the perfect blend of education and excitement! This engaging game invites children and adults alike to explore STEM concepts while enhancing vital logic and problem-solving skills. With vibrant thinking putty colors and intriguing challenges that promote critical thinking, it’s not just a game; it's an adventure in learning! 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
ThinkFun Puzzle: Brain-Boosting Fun! combines vibrant thinking putty colors with engaging STEM challenges, turning learning into a lively, creative family adventure that keeps everyone on their toes.
Elevate Game Night with The Mind
Our Rank:
The Mind is an incredible card game that brings families and friends together for a night of laughter and teamwork. Imagine a game where your ability to sync with others is the key to success—no words needed! Perfect for honing essential skills like patience, focus, and non-verbal communication, this game challenges us to think creatively while fostering deeper connections. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Elevate Game Night with The Mind fosters laughter and teamwork without a single word, making it a unique bonding experience that’s both fun and educational for all ages.
Einstein: The Game of Puzzles and Strategy
Our Rank:
Einstein: The Board Game is a fantastic way for our kiddos to engage their brains while having a blast! As we team up and channel our inner Einstein, we dive into a world of creativity, quick thinking, and problem-solving. With 300 puzzle cards across 11 categories, every round presents its own unique challenges, encouraging critical thinking and teamwork. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Einstein: The Game of Puzzles and Strategy offers 300 puzzle cards that spark creativity and quick thinking, turning family game night into a wild adventure of brain power.
ThinkFun Fifteen Puzzle: A Brainy Challenge
Our Rank:
ThinkFun Fifteen Puzzle turns problem-solving into a thrilling adventure! As parents and educators, we adore how this classic game stimulates critical thinking and sharpens spatial reasoning skills in our kids. It’s perfect for on-the-go fun, fitting easily into our bags for travel, and makes for an engaging tool in the classroom. 8 to adult
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
ThinkFun Fifteen Puzzle is a compact travel game that turns critical thinking into a family bonding experience, making every quest for the right number a learning adventure!
Game of The States: Learn and Play
Our Rank:
Game of The States with 1970's Original Artwork is not just a game—it's a delightful journey across our great nation! As our kids race their trucks, they'll be picking up and delivering goods while diving into the fascinating world of U. S. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Game of The States features charming 1970's original artwork, making learning about U.S. geography a colorful and engaging adventure for the whole family.
Spin & Solve Word Challenge
Our Rank:
The Educational Insights Wheel of Fortune Game is a handheld electronic game that entertains while enhancing vocabulary and critical thinking skills. Perfect for family game nights or travel, it transforms word puzzles into engaging challenges that promote teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. This game not only brings the excitement of a classic TV show into your home but also cultivates a love for language and gameplay among kids and adults alike. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Spin & Solve Word Challenge is a handheld electronic game that transforms word puzzles into fun family competitions, making vocabulary practice feel like an entertaining quiz show at home.
GeoBingo: Learn While You Play
Our Rank:
The Trend Enterprises U. S. A. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
GeoBingo: Learn While You Play features 36 unique cards that turn geography and history into an engaging family game night—perfect for sneaking in learning amidst laughter!
Four Word Thinking: Lightning-Fast Fun!
Our Rank:
Four Word Thinking is an exhilarating way to ignite creativity and quick thinking in our family game nights! This fantastic word race not only makes learning fun but also hones essential skills like vocabulary, spelling, and critical thinking through engaging play. With its simple mechanics and a four-letter word limit, even our youngest players can join in on the excitement! 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Four Word Thinking brings the thrill of wordplay to family game night with its simple mechanics and exciting four-letter word races, boosting both learning and laughter.
Unlock Logic with Solitaire Chess Puzzle
Our Rank:
ThinkFun Solitaire Chess Magnetic Travel Puzzle is a brilliant way to engage our minds while having fun! This game not only combines the thrill of chess with the simplicity of solitaire but also acts as a fantastic tool for enhancing problem-solving and strategic thinking. It's perfect for our kids aged 8 and up, promoting STEM skills and creative reasoning in an interactive and entertaining format. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Unlock Logic with Solitaire Chess Puzzle features a travel-friendly design, making it the perfect brain-teaser to turn any quiet moment into a strategic showdown.
The Game: Team-Up for Fun!
Our Rank:
The Game invites families to embark on an exciting journey of teamwork and strategy! As parents, we love how it encourages our kiddos, teens, and even us adult players to collaborate and think critically together. This engaging card game hones essential skills such as reading social cues, strategic planning, and problem-solving—all while keeping everyone entertained. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
The Game: Team-Up for Fun! features a quick 20-minute playtime that turns family game night into a fun-filled collaboration while building essential skills together.
ThinkFun Freefall: The Ultimate Marble Maze Challenge
Our Rank:
ThinkFun Freefall is the perfect blend of logic and fun! As parents and educators, we know that engaging our kids in games that foster problem-solving skills is vital for their development. With its captivating marble maze design, this game provides a stimulating experience for both kids and adults alike. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
ThinkFun Freefall features a captivating marble maze design that transforms family game night into a delightful challenge while sharpening our kids' cognitive skills. Who knew teamwork could be so much fun?
Mooove Your Mind with Fast-Thinking Fun!
Our Rank:
Make a Mooove is not just an ordinary game—it's an exciting way to sharpen those fast-thinking skills! As parents and educators, we love watching our kids giggle and roar like animals while learning to recognize fruits. It's a delightful blend of cognitive development and pure fun that encourages teamwork, enhances memory, and boosts enthusiasm for learning. 5+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Mooove Your Mind with Fast-Thinking Fun! is an interactive game that gets kids giggling while enhancing their memory and teamwork skills, making learning a lively family affair.
Checkers: A Timeless Learning Adventure
Our Rank:
Pressman Checkers is not just a classic game; it’s a fantastic tool for teaching strategic thinking and problem-solving to our children. As we gather around this beautifully folding board with interlocking checkers, we can watch our young players develop essential skills such as patience and foresight. This game provides a perfect opportunity for us to engage in thoughtful discussions about tactics and sportsmanship while having loads of fun. 6+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Checkers: A Timeless Learning Adventure features a beautifully folding board that transforms game night into a fun-filled session of critical thinking and friendly competition.
SET Card Game: Brain-Boosting Fun!
Our Rank:
SET Card Games for Kids - Collectors Tin is the perfect way to bring family game night to life while nurturing critical cognitive skills! As fellow parents and educators, we love how this game not only offers endless fun but also promotes logical reasoning, visual perception, and spatial awareness in a delightful way. With the challenge of finding the right combinations, it keeps kids engaged and sharp while they play together, creating lasting memories and bonding moments. 6+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
SET Card Game: Brain-Boosting Fun! comes in a delightful collectors tin, making family game night a vibrant way to sharpen minds while creating unforgettable memories together.
Clue Your Way to Critical Thinking
Our Rank:
The Hasbro Gaming Clue Game is not just about solving a murder; it's a fun gateway to developing critical thinking and deduction skills for players aged 8 and up. By eliminating suspects and piecing together clues, children enhance their logical reasoning, teamwork, and communication skills while engaging in a thrilling mystery-solving experience. This game is an excellent choice for families and educators looking to support cognitive development in an entertaining setting. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Clue Your Way to Critical Thinking offers a thrilling mystery-solving experience that sharpens young minds while bringing families together over a game night that’s both fun and educational.
Number Fun: Fast-Paced Strategy Game
Our Rank:
The Number Party Game is an exciting and engaging way for families to challenge their minds while having a blast together! Designed for kids and adults alike, this clever mix of bluffing and risk-taking develops critical thinking and strategic skills as players decide on their unique numbers. Watching our kids think on their feet and consider their choices brings us immense joy, and we love how it sparks friendly competition. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Number Fun: Fast-Paced Strategy Game brings families together with its clever mix of bluffing, making math a thrilling adventure we can tackle together.
Guess Who? Original: Fun Learning Game
Our Rank:
Guess Who? Original is more than just a game; it's a gateway to learning! As kids take turns asking strategic yes or no questions to uncover each other’s mystery character, they're unknowingly sharpening their critical thinking and reasoning skills. 6 years and up
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Guess Who? Original features a fun twist with classic characters, making game night an exciting way for kids to develop their reasoning skills while bonding over playful mystery.
Less Chess: A Fun Twist on Strategy
Our Rank:
Less Chess brings an exciting new twist to a classic game! This fast-paced board game is perfect for both kids and adults, encouraging strategic thinking and teamwork. With just three simple steps to start, it makes for an engaging way to develop problem-solving skills and enhance cognitive abilities without the intimidation of traditional chess. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Less Chess brings a fast-paced twist to traditional chess, making strategy fun and accessible for all ages while turning family game night into a bonding adventure.
CATAN Dice Game: Strategy on the Go
Our Rank:
CATAN Dice Game opens up a world of strategy and fun for our family adventures! This portable gem encourages critical thinking and decision-making, making it a fantastic choice for kids and adults alike. With playtimes of just 15-30 minutes, it's perfect for keeping engaged during quick breaks or while traveling. 7+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
CATAN Dice Game offers exciting strategic gameplay in just 15-30 minutes, making it perfect for on-the-go family fun that sharpens decision-making and math skills.
Boost Critical Thinking with Mental Blox
Our Rank:
Mental Blox Critical Thinking Game is the perfect way to turn playtime into a brain-boosting adventure! As parents and educators, we know how crucial it is for kids to develop analytical skills early on, and this game delivers just that through hours of fun. With 20 colorful blocks and 40 engaging activity cards, children can practice following verbal instructions while building their very own creative structures. 5+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Boost Critical Thinking with Mental Blox comes with 20 colorful blocks and 40 engaging activity cards, transforming playtime into a brain-boosting adventure that sparks creativity and imagination.
Match Madness: Engage Minds, Ignite Fun!
Our Rank:
FoxMind Match Madness Board Game is a thrilling way for kids and adults alike to boost their problem-solving skills and dexterity! In this fast-paced game, players race to match colorful patterns displayed on cards using their matching blocks. It's an exciting challenge that enhances visual recognition and quick thinking. 6+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Match Madness features fast-paced gameplay where family members race to match colorful patterns, turning learning into a competitive and hilarious bonding experience.
Fun Family Strategy Game
Our Rank:
The Mattel Games Phase 10 Card Game engages players in strategic thinking and problem-solving as they navigate through ten unique phases. Designed for ages 7 and up, this game not only promotes critical reasoning and social interaction but also enhances math skills through counting and strategic planning. With special graphic symbols aiding color recognition, all players can enjoy an inclusive and dynamic game night experience. 7+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Fun Family Strategy Game encourages strategic thinking through ten unique phases, turning family game night into a hilarious and educational challenge everyone can enjoy.
Connect 4 Classic: Strategy Fun for Kids
Our Rank:
Hasbro Gaming Connect 4 Classic Grid turns game night into a strategic showdown! This engaging 4 in a Row game not only fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also promotes healthy competition among friends and family. As we take turns dropping our colorful discs, we learn the value of planning ahead, predicting our opponent's moves, and developing our own winning strategies. 6+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Connect 4 Classic: Strategy Fun for Kids features an engaging grid that transforms game night into a battle of wits, teaching kids to think ahead and outsmart their opponents.
Monopoly Card Game: Fast Fun Learning
Our Rank:
Winning Moves Monopoly The Card Game merges the classic fun of Monopoly with the strategic gameplay of Rummy. Designed for players aged 8 and up, this engaging card game promotes critical thinking, decision-making, and social skills as children learn to draw, trade, and organize their cards into color groups. It's an exciting way to bond with family or friends while fostering strategic skills in a fast-paced environment that's perfect for today’s busy lifestyles. 8+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Monopoly Card Game: Fast Fun Learning merges classic Monopoly fun with strategic gameplay, making family game night a thrilling way to foster teamwork and problem-solving!
Unleash Creativity with Burn Book Game
Our Rank:
Mean Girls Burn Book Party Card Game is a hilariously entertaining way to get your teens engaging with one another while developing their critical thinking and social skills. As they concoct outrageous statements based on fun and loaded questions, they'll learn the art of expression, creativity, and humor. This game not only fosters laughter but also encourages strong communication, making it a fantastic choice for family game nights or gatherings with friends. 14+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Unleash Creativity with Burn Book Game includes fun and loaded questions that spark hilarity while helping teens master the art of conversation and connection—everyone loves a good laugh!
Engage Minds with Buffalo Games Puzzle
Our Rank:
Buffalo Games - Eric Dowdle - Marblehead - Jigsaw Puzzle for Adults is an engaging way to spend time together while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills! With its vibrant artwork and challenging 300-pieces, this puzzle invites us to dive into a shared experience, promoting both relaxation and focus. Whether you’re piecing it together on a cozy family game night or enjoying some peaceful solo time, it’s a delightful way to enhance our mental resilience and enjoy precious moments together. Adult
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Engage Minds with Buffalo Games Puzzle features 300 vibrant pieces that turn family game night into a delightful adventure of collaboration and concentration with a side of cozy relaxation.
Mind-Bending Puzzle Adventure
Our Rank:
The BePuzzled Hasbro Impossibles Puzzle Featuring Imagery from The Classic Game of Operation is a fantastic way to engage older teens and adults in critical thinking and problem-solving. With 750 borderless pieces and unique added challenges like extra pieces that don’t fit anywhere, this puzzle enhances spatial reasoning and perseverance as puzzlers work collaboratively to complete the artwork of beloved classic games. It’s not just a puzzling experience; it’s an opportunity for quality time and cognitive skill development. 15+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Mind-Bending Puzzle Adventure, with its 750 borderless pieces and sneaky extra challenges, turns family time into a fun strategy session that boosts brains and bonds.
Balance Beans: Fun with Math and Logic!
Our Rank:
ThinkFun Balance Beans Math Game is a delightful way to spark early math skills in your little ones! With colorful bean pieces and a wobbly seesaw, this engaging puzzle introduces elementary algebra concepts while enhancing logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. We love how it comes with 40 progressively challenging tasks that keep our kids guessing and problem-solving for hours. 5 and up
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Balance Beans: Fun with Math and Logic! includes 40 progressively challenging tasks, making math feel like a thrilling puzzle adventure that the whole family can enjoy together!