The Top Wii Games for Children Ages 6-8

Being the mother of a 6 year old, it was hard enough to decide if the Wii was a suitable gaming system for my child, much less what games would be suitable for his age group. My ultimate decision to get the Wii as opposed to some other system was due to the unique features it had over the others- namely that with the right game choices, I could keep my son off of the couch and moving more than his fingertips! There is no true substitute for playing outdoors, but on rainy days the Wii is like a gift sent from heaven above.

This article is meant to give other parents of young children a premise by which they can find the right games for their child... Ones that are not only suitable for their age group, but that will offer them the physical and mental type challenges that are important in their development.

Wii Sports

Wii Sports is a great beginner game, not just for the younger kids, but for the whole family! It includes baseball, tennis, bowling, golf and boxing and offers 3 types of play- single player, multi-player and the fitness test.

In the US, Wii systems are being shipped with this game included which is great since it serves as a wonderful familiarizer for the wii-mote functions.

In terms of usage for kids ages 6-8, this is a great game for fine tuning motor skills. Regardless of the type of play they are engaging in (single player, multi-player or fitness test) this game is sure to keep them moving and has great visual cues on how to use the wii-mote to play each game so they don't get easily frustrated. Trust me, before you know it, they have every motion down pat and are beating you in every round!

Another perk to this game is that it utilizes the Wii-based character called the "Mii" which your youngster can create for his or herself. (It always helps to add any kind of outlet for creativity when they are in this age group)

Boom Blox

Boom Blox is a new game developed by entertainment mogul Steven Spielberg in conjunctions with EA sports. Though this is his first attempt at game development, you definitely have to give him props for this family friendly release!

Boom Blox combines cute and lovable block shaped characters with fun, physics based, brain busting puzzles that are sure to entertain you and your youngster.

There are over 300 puzzles and 3 types of game play- single player, co-op, and versus. In addition, Boom Blox also allows you to create and destroy your own levels within it's Create Mode, adding even more variety.

Though some of the puzzles may be challenging for a 6-8 year old, the game fosters some understanding of physics and with the help of an adult, the levels can even be "remixed" in the Create Mode to make them a bit easier for the young ones. Regardless, I can guarantee that any young child will be mesmorized by the colors, characters and the design of each puzzle and the fact that they will be tossing zany items like bowling balls, baseballs and fire hoses to break everything apart!

Rayman Raving Rabbids

Ok, so this one sounds zany... and it is, but in it's defense, it does foster coordination with its gladiator style mini-games.

The premise of Rayman Raving Rabbids is that Rayman's peaceful world is taken over by evil rabbits who then capture him and put him through a series of tests.

Little ones will have a blast shooting evil bunnies with plungers, competing in a dance competition and even a cow tossing competition!

If you are looking for a game that will have your little one laughing and moving at the same time, this is a great choice.

Carnival Games

What 6-8 year old doesn't like the Carnival?

Carnival Games brings classic carnival/fair gameplay to your living room. There are 20 different games in all, including the Milk Can Toss, Skeet Ball and even the dunk tank! Upon completion of your turn, you are awarded prizes for your progress and unlock additional special prizes along the way.

Like Wii Sports, in this game you create your own virtual character, or "Mii", to play with which just adds to the excitement for a young child.

Control of the Wii-mote is made easy with visual instructions displayed before each game so your child shouldn't get too frustrated.

All in all this game is a great choice if you are looking for something that incorporates fun, coordination and challenge.