Do you remember playing Hi-Ho Cheerio as a child? What about Chutes and Ladders? Loved the ladders, hated the chutes, didn't you? As you grew up you probably started to realize that board games had some lessons to teach. Board games are great for teaching children life lessons, helping them deal with frustration, teaching them to be good sports, and of course, they are great for having fun.

Life is one of those games that teaches lessons, and while the traditional game may be rather tough for little children, there is also a Sponge Bob version of Life. There are many board games created especially for small children, and some of the higher age level games have been adapted for little ones, like Clue Junior or Monopoly Junior. You can also find versions of other board games that include your children's favorite characters, like Sponge Bob Monopoly, Care Bears Checkers, or the Dora the Explorer version of Candy Land.

Candy Land is one of the all time favorite board games for small children. It's colorful, interesting and simple to play, and it's got candy. These are all elements that small children will find delightful. You can also find Dora the Explorer, Sesame Street characters, Disney Princesses, and many others featured in the Memory card game.

Other simple board games that are perfect for small children include Trouble and Sorry. Trouble is similar to Parcheesi, but there are slots for the game pieces so they are easier to keep track of, and it has a "pop-o-matic" ball in the center that you press to roll the dice, instead of shaking dice in small cups. You can try Cheesy Parcheesy.

Do you remember Operation? Your kids will love operating on their patients and will laugh together as each player sets off the buzzer. There's even a new Shrek version of this old favorite.

There are many different types of board games available for all age levels, and game makers have begun catering to younger players. This is great for small children since playing board games teaches them so much, including ways to interact with others appropriately. Check out the Care Bears game; Hungry, Hungry, Hippo; Crocodile Dentist; and a huge assortment of other fun board games that the whole family can enjoy.