Game of the Month: Scrambled States

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Scrambled States of America Game

Inspired by the popular picture book of the same name, Scrambled States of America is one of Kiddo's favorites. He's requested to play it more times than I can count! This is no dry and dreary educational game. It exercises kids' visual recognition and quick thinking skills while they learn fun facts about the states: capitals, nicknames and geography. The object of the game is collect the most states cards by "scrambling" to matching them up to task cards.

Special Considerations:

• For kids who need a break from strategy games, this is a good choice.
• Rules are easy to learn.
• Expect laughter!
• The official rules state that players race to find the correct matching state during game play. I've found it easier on kids with low frustration levels to let everyone with a state card fulfilling the match requirement to win the round instead of the player who finds the match first.
• Playing the game requires reading skills. It is recommended for ages 8 and up, but kids at a younger can can easily play if they can read; we got this game when Kiddo was 5.
• Don't forget to read the companion books! The Scrambled States of America and The Scrambled States of America Talent Show. Books and games? My two favorite things!

Tips for Playing with Preschoolers and Toddlers at the Table:

• Preschoolers can play on a team with a grown-up and have fun measuring distances, finding colors, and counting eyeballs.
• Although the game requires reading, kids who know their alphabet can exercise pre-literacy skills by helping their adult team member find word and letter matches on cards when required.
• As I mentioned above, it is best to eliminate the requirement to be the first player to find a match. The game is no less enjoyable when you do this, and cries of disappointment will be much fewer.
• I don't recommend playing this game with toddlers who like to reach and grab.

Have you ever played the Scrambled States of America Game?

Previous Games of the Month: Animal Bingo, Skip-bo, Rummikub, Qwirkle, Roads, Rivers and Rails, Colorku, Skippity.

This post contains affiliate links.

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