How to Choose Educational Games for Teens: Parent's Guide

Struggling to pick the right educational game for your teen? Here's a quick guide to help you make the best choice. Educational games can turn tough subjects like math into fun, engaging activities, boosting grades and confidence. But not all games are effective. Here's what to focus on:

• Learning Goals: Identify your teen's struggles - math concepts, reading challenges, or focus issues - and choose a game tailored to their needs.

• Educational Value: Look for games that align with school standards (like Common Core) and integrate learning into gameplay, avoiding those that feel like digital worksheets.

• Engagement: Opt for age-appropriate games with strong storylines, interactive visuals, and formats teens enjoy (like RPGs or strategy games).

• Safety and Cost: Check for parental controls, ad-free options, and pricing models (free, freemium, or paid) to suit your budget.

For example, Infinilearn is a math game designed for middle schoolers, blending Common Core-aligned content with an engaging fantasy storyline. It’s a great mix of learning and fun while offering progress tracking for parents.

Choosing the right game can make learning enjoyable and effective for your teen. Keep reading for detailed tips and recommendations.

Step 1: Identify Your Teen's Learning Goals and Challenges

Before diving into the world of educational games, take some time to figure out your teen's specific needs. Middle schoolers (grades 6–8) transition from basic math to tackling more abstract topics like algebra and geometry. These subjects require understanding not just the "how" but the "why" behind each step. The best game for your teen will depend on whether they need to bridge knowledge gaps, sharpen their skills, or take on more advanced material. Start by paying attention to their homework habits to pinpoint where they struggle most.

Look for patterns in their homework. Are they having trouble because they missed foundational concepts? Do they make procedural mistakes? Or is it a deeper struggle with understanding the overall ideas? As Common Sense Media points out:

At some point, it gets harder for many parents to help with math homework - and harder for some teens to accept parental help at all.

In these cases, an educational game can act as a neutral, stress-free tool to support learning without the tension of parental involvement.

Define Subject Focus and Grade Level

Once you've identified your teen's general needs, narrow it down to the specific subjects they need help with. For example, if your 7th grader is struggling with concepts from 6th grade, look for a game that matches their current skill level. Similarly, a teen who finds reading challenging might benefit from games with less text or built-in audio support to reduce frustration unrelated to the core subject. Games that adjust their difficulty level in real time can also be a great option.

Address Learning Challenges

It’s important to think beyond academics. Is your teen avoiding math because they feel anxious, lack confidence, or simply find it boring? Mat Woods from TeenWire.org explains:

When a teenager is interested in a topic, they'll seek out new knowledge non-stop, the trick is that it has to be something they're interested in.

If your teen seems disengaged, try finding games that focus on fun and tap into their interests - whether that’s through strategy, storytelling, or interactive challenges.

Figure out whether the issue is academic (like mastering fractions) or behavioral (like staying focused). Choosing the right type of game can make all the difference. Fast-paced games can help build fluency, while those with interactive visuals are great for understanding complex concepts. By clarifying your teen’s specific goals, you’ll make it easier to find games that align with their learning journey.

Step 2: Evaluate Educational Value and Curriculum Alignment

Once you've pinpointed your teen’s learning goals in Step 1, it’s time to ensure the game you choose offers meaningful educational benefits. It’s not enough for a game to label itself as “educational” - it needs to provide more than just surface-level learning. Many so-called educational games focus on rote memorization or quick fact recall, which doesn’t help with deeper understanding. As Tanner Higgin, Editorial Director at Common Sense Education, explains:

"Great educational games find ways to accomplish learning objectives through novel game mechanics. Bad educational games are basically digital worksheets."

The best educational games weave learning into the gameplay itself. For example, solving math problems could unlock new levels or help navigate obstacles, encouraging teens to truly understand concepts rather than just memorize steps. It’s also important to check if the game aligns with Common Core standards or your state’s specific curriculum. Some platforms clearly indicate this alignment, making it easier to see how the content supports what your teen is learning in school. Organizations like Common Sense Education use detailed, research-based rubrics to evaluate how well a game’s content translates into practical, real-world skills.

Check for Embedded Skill Practice

A great educational game doesn’t just add learning as an afterthought - it makes it central to the experience. Look for games that integrate learning into the gameplay itself. For instance, a game might require solving algebraic equations to cast spells or applying geometric principles to solve puzzles. This approach keeps teens engaged by turning the subject matter into a tool for success. On the flip side, avoid games that feel like traditional worksheets disguised as entertainment. The best games also provide immediate, constructive feedback when mistakes are made, helping players learn and improve as they play.

Assess Progress Tracking Features

Progress tracking tools are invaluable for keeping tabs on your teen’s learning journey. Features like parent dashboards and detailed progress reports can help you monitor which skills are being practiced, where your teen is excelling, and which areas might need more focus. Some platforms even break down reports by specific standards - like "Common Core Math 8.EE.8" - so you can see exactly how the game aligns with classroom learning. Be sure to check whether these features require a subscription. Games that use adaptive technology to adjust difficulty levels in real-time are also a great choice, as they keep the challenge balanced without overwhelming your teen.

Step 3: Look for Age-Appropriate and Engaging Features

Once you've confirmed the game's educational benefits, the next step is ensuring it resonates with your teen. With 90% of teenagers playing video games, the medium is incredibly effective - if the game aligns with their interests. However, teens are quick to dismiss anything that feels too juvenile or like a digital textbook. The challenge is finding what experts call the "sweet spot": games that are both entertaining and educational. This means going beyond the "educational" label to evaluate whether the game's design, storyline, and social features can genuinely capture your teen's interest. Once engagement is secured, focus on how the game's design and narrative align with your teen’s preferences.

Review Game Design and Storyline

Teens are more likely to enjoy games that treat them as the young adults they’re becoming. It’s important to avoid games with designs clearly aimed at younger children. Instead, look for genres like Role-Playing Games (RPGs), adventure simulations, turn-based strategy games, or brainteasers. These types of games often include quests, branching storylines, and character development, transforming learning into an immersive experience rather than a chore. A strong storyline doesn’t just entertain - it reinforces the educational goals.

To get a better sense of the game’s tone and appeal, watch gameplay videos on platforms like YouTube. Pay attention to the ESRB rating - not just the "T" for Teen mark, but also the detailed Content Descriptors (e.g., Violence or Strong Language) and Interactive Elements (like "Users Interact" or "In-Game Purchases"). Games with engaging visuals, responsive text elements, or full voiceovers tend to hold teens’ attention more effectively than those relying heavily on static, text-heavy formats.

Avoid Competitive Pressure

Creating a safe and supportive learning environment is just as important as choosing the right game. Games without public leaderboards can help reduce competitive stress, fostering a more relaxed atmosphere for learning. Shelley Frost from LiveStrong.com explains:

"Noncompetitive games create a sense of unity, cooperation and support. The games allow all kids to participate the entire time without branding some as winners and others as losers."

Look for games that emphasize cooperative or self-paced play instead of competitive features. Modes that remove time limits or high-pressure challenges allow teens to focus on skill-building without added stress. Games offering private progress tracking or self-paced study options are especially helpful for subjects that might cause anxiety. The goal is to create a space where mistakes are simply part of the learning process, not public failures, encouraging both confidence and growth.

Step 4: Ensure Safety, Accessibility, and Cost-Effectiveness

Educational Game Pricing Models Comparison: Free vs Freemium vs Premium

When selecting educational games, it's crucial to consider their safety, accessibility, and affordability. These practical aspects complement the engagement and learning potential discussed earlier.

Check for Parental Controls and Ad-Free Gameplay

A safe and distraction-free gaming environment is essential for kids. Start by reviewing the ESRB Interactive Elements on the game's product page or packaging. These labels indicate whether a game includes features like in-game purchases, chat functions, location sharing, or unrestricted internet access. According to surveys, most parents find the ESRB rating system - comprising Age Ratings, Content Descriptors, and Interactive Elements - integral to determining if a game is suitable for their children.

If you're using consoles like Nintendo, Sony, or Microsoft, or devices running iOS or Android, take advantage of their built-in parental controls. These tools allow you to set screen time limits, restrict spending, and filter content based on age ratings. For games with social features, consider limiting chat settings to "Friends Only." This ensures kids can interact with known peers while minimizing exposure to strangers.

Ads in free games can pose risks, such as data tracking, exposure to inappropriate content, or encouraging unnecessary spending. If you're evaluating a free game, play it yourself first to gauge ad frequency and content. For simple educational games that can run offline, switching to airplane mode is an effective way to block most advertisements.

Understand Pricing Models

Educational games generally fall into three pricing categories, each with its own pros and cons.

• Free games: These have no upfront cost and are often supported by ads or data collection. Platforms like PBS Kids provide ad-free educational options for free, though these tend to focus on simpler gameplay mechanics.

• Freemium games: These are free to download but often include in-game purchases, which can lead to unexpected charges.

• Paid or subscription-based games: These require an upfront payment or a recurring fee. While they tend to be ad-free and offer advanced features like progress tracking, they can be more expensive, with some titles costing up to $60.

Here’s a quick comparison of the three models:

Before purchasing, confirm the game's compatibility with your device. To avoid accidental spending, enable password protection for in-game purchases. As Common Sense Media points out, "When you're talking about spending up to $60, it's important to remember that there's a big difference between a cheap, weak title... and a high-quality, challenging title".

Step 5: Explore Infinilearn as a Recommended Example

Once you've considered safety, accessibility, and cost, it’s useful to see how these ideas come to life in an actual educational game. Infinilearn is a standout example of what a thoughtfully designed math game for middle school students can achieve.

Overview of Infinilearn Features

Infinilearn is a math game specifically created for students in grades 6–8. The game takes players to the fantasy world of Numeria, where they step into the role of Academy apprentices on a mission to recover Seal Fragments and restore balance. Math challenges are woven into the gameplay, appearing as part of turn-based combat. This approach makes problem-solving a natural part of the adventure instead of feeling like a separate task.

The game adapts its difficulty to match the player's grade level, ensuring that both 6th and 8th graders face challenges appropriate for their skills. All content aligns with Common Core standards, so the math concepts practiced in the game mirror what students are learning in the classroom. For parents, Infinilearn includes a progress tracking dashboard, which provides insights into mastered skills and areas where additional help might be needed - making it easier to stay involved without hovering over every session.

Tanner Higgin, Editorial Director at Common Sense Education, puts it well: "A lot of games that claim to be educational are little more than dressed-up quizzes that challenge students to recall facts, faster and faster. These games might hook students, but they don't lean into what makes games great for learning." Infinilearn takes a different approach by embedding math into its story-driven combat system. It also avoids public leaderboards, which helps reduce competitive pressure and encourages students to view mistakes as part of the learning process. This thoughtful design combines engagement, curriculum alignment, and safety, standing out from typical educational games in meaningful ways.

Comparison Table: Infinilearn vs Generic Game Attributes

Here’s a side-by-side look at how Infinilearn stacks up against more generic educational games:

Infinilearn offers a free version for core gameplay, with a premium subscription available for those who want access to advanced tracking tools and additional content.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Choosing the Best Educational Games

Finding the right educational game for your teen boils down to four key priorities: aligning with learning goals, ensuring genuine engagement, prioritizing safety and privacy, and understanding costs. Start by identifying the specific subjects or skills your teen needs to work on, and look for games that meet state standards, like Common Core, instead of settling for generic drills. Research from Vanderbilt University highlights the impact of such games, showing that curriculum-aligned educational games can improve test scores by over half a letter grade in just three weeks.

Engagement is just as crucial as educational content. Tanner Higgin, Editorial Director at Common Sense Education, emphasizes this point:

Great educational games find ways to accomplish learning objectives through novel game mechanics. Bad educational games are basically digital worksheets.

The best games weave learning into their storylines and challenges, making the experience more immersive and rewarding.

When it comes to safety, ensure the game complies with COPPA/FERPA regulations, includes strong parental controls, offers ad-free gameplay, and restricts multiplayer chat to trusted contacts. Additionally, be mindful of hidden costs - check for loot boxes, in-game currency, or subscription tiers that could lead to unexpected expenses.

Platforms like Infinilearn demonstrate how these principles can come together effectively. Designed for grades 6–8 and fully aligned with Common Core standards, Infinilearn incorporates problem-solving directly into its gameplay rather than relying on repetitive quizzes. This approach strikes a balance between curriculum alignment, engagement, and safety.

Before making a final decision, watch demo videos or try a trial session to ensure the game is a good fit. The right educational game can transform a challenging subject into something your teen genuinely enjoys.

FAQs

How can I figure out what type of educational games will best support my teen's learning?

To pick the best educational games for your teen, start by focusing on their specific learning needs and goals. Take a look at their school performance, teacher feedback, or areas where they might be struggling, like math, reading, or staying organized. Have an open conversation with your teen about what they find challenging or stressful, and pay attention to the types of games they naturally gravitate toward - this can give you valuable insight into their learning preferences.

Think about how your teen learns most effectively. Some teens thrive with visual puzzles, while others might prefer story-driven adventures or fast-paced problem-solving challenges. Choosing a game that matches their learning style can make the experience more engaging and productive. Don’t forget to consider their screen time tolerance - teens who get overwhelmed by long play sessions might benefit from shorter, more frequent gaming periods.

Lastly, tie the game to your teen’s personal interests. Whether they’re into sports, music, or another hobby, connecting academic concepts to something they’re passionate about can make learning feel less like work and more like fun. By combining their learning needs, preferred styles, and personal interests, you can find educational games that not only teach but also keep your teen excited to play.

What makes an educational game engaging and effective for teens?

Educational games hit the mark with teens when they blend personal interests with meaningful learning experiences. Themes like sports, music, or pop culture - things teens are already drawn to - can grab their attention right away. To keep them engaged, the game needs clear goals, challenges that gradually ramp up, and instant feedback to track progress and boost confidence.

Social interaction and storytelling add another layer of appeal. Multiplayer or cooperative modes let teens team up with friends, turning learning into a shared adventure. A compelling storyline or immersive environment can make academic concepts feel more relatable, while gameplay that involves tackling practical problems shows the real-world value of the skills they’re developing.

The game also needs to be age-appropriate, aligned with educational goals, and flexible enough to let teens explore at their own pace. By balancing relevance, challenge, social connection, and purpose, educational games can create an experience that’s both enjoyable and enriching.

How can I choose safe and affordable educational games for my teen?

To make sure an educational game is both safe and budget-friendly, start by checking its ESRB rating. Labels like "E for Everyone" or "E10+" help confirm the game is suitable for your teen’s age and doesn’t include inappropriate content. You can also use parental controls to monitor in-game purchases and restrict data sharing, offering an added layer of security.

Next, consider the game’s educational benefits. Does it match your teen’s learning goals? For instance, it might focus on enhancing math skills or encouraging critical thinking. To keep costs down, explore free trials, affordable versions, or even school-licensed subscriptions that provide quality content without breaking the bank.

Lastly, turn to trusted reviews that assess educational games for their learning potential, safety measures, and price. This approach allows you to choose games that promote your teen’s growth while staying within budget and protecting their privacy.

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