🎲 4 Must-Have ESL Games That Make English Learning Fun
If you’re an ESL teacher or a homeschooling parent looking to bring more fun, connection, and language learning into your classroom or home, you’re in the right place!
Teaching English to elementary-aged kids doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth. In fact, with the right resources, it can feel like playtime!
As an experienced ESL teacher, I’m always on the lookout for tools that combine interactive learning with real language use, especially for young learners who need lots of repetition and movement.
Here are four of my favorite ESL games — classroom-tested and kid-approved!
1. Educational Spelling Game
Kids pick a card with a picture and match the letters to spell the word using the letter blocks. Great for building phonics and reading skills.
Why I love it:
✅ Supports letter recognition and CVC word formation
✅ Encourages independent learning
✅ Comes with colorful cards & durable blocks
Best for: Ages 4–7, early readers, ESL beginners
This game turn spelling into a hands-on adventure!
2. Pop for Sight Words Game
A popcorn-themed sight word game with a twist! Pull a “POP!” card and lose your pile — kids can’t get enough of it.
Why I love it:
✅ Fast-paced and super engaging
✅ Builds confidence with high-frequency words
✅ Encourages speaking and turn-taking
Best for: Group lessons, literacy centers, and online ESL
Sight word practice just got fun!
3. Conversation Starters for Kids
Get your learners talking! These cards spark meaningful and creative discussions.
Why I love it:
✅ Builds vocabulary and fluency
✅ Perfect for speaking warm-ups or pair work
✅ Helps shy students open up
Best for: Ages 6+, EFL speaking practice, family ESL time
Get your ESL learners talking — for real.
4. Learning Prepositions of Place Puzzle
Teach grammar through visuals! Match sentences like “The cat is under the table” with cute illustrations.
Why I love it:
✅ Makes prepositions fun and memorable
✅ Visual, hands-on grammar practice
✅ Reusable and easy to adapt
Best for: ESL beginners, grammar centers, at-home learning
Grammar that makes sense — visually.
🌟Pro Tip:
Try rotating these games into your weekly routine — for example, use one on Fridays for review or keep another on hand for early finishers. You’ll keep your students engaged and learning without extra prep!
Want More Ideas Like This? 🪄
Follow me on Instagram for ESL tips: @the.inspiredfairy.english
Or grab ready-to-use printables in my TPT store: The Inspired Fairy
Let me know which game your kids loved most in the comments! 💬👇
Enjoy the games! 🧚♀️
The Inspired Fairy
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