Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children and adults worldwide, making it challenging to focus, regulate impulses, and manage tasks. While traditional treatments like medication and therapy are invaluable, games have emerged as an effective way to improve cognitive skills, focus, and emotional regulation—all while having fun.

This updated guide explores the best games for ADHD, including FDA-approved therapeutic games, traditional activities, and modern digital tools designed to enhance cognitive and executive functioning.

Why Games Are Effective for ADHD

Games provide structured activities with clear rules and goals, making them ideal for channeling energy and improving skills. They can:

• Boost focus and attention span.
• Enhance impulse control and emotional regulation.
• Strengthen memory and cognitive flexibility.
• Foster teamwork and social skills.

Whether traditional, physical, or digital, the right games help individuals with ADHD thrive in a playful, engaging way.

FDA-Approved and Digital Therapeutics

1. EndeavorRx

• Why It Stands Out: The first FDA-approved video game designed to treat ADHD in children aged 8-12.
• How It Helps: EndeavorRx targets attention-related neural pathways through adaptive gameplay, improving focus and executive functioning.
• How to Access: Requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. Available on tablets and mobile devices.
• Clinical Validation: Backed by scientific studies, it’s proven to complement traditional ADHD treatments like therapy and medication.

2. Mightier

• Why It Works: Designed by child psychologists, Mightier helps kids build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback-based gaming.
• How It Helps: As children play, they practice calming techniques when their heart rate rises, teaching self-regulation in a fun, interactive way.
• Availability: Subscription-based service with access to a variety of games.

3. Akili Interactive’s Future Platforms

• What’s Next: Building on EndeavorRx’s success, Akili is exploring similar therapeutic games for teens and adults, focusing on cognitive challenges and impulse control.

Traditional Games to Enhance Focus and Attention

1. Simon Says

• How It Helps: Encourages listening and concentration through carefully following instructions.
• Family Tip: Add movement-based tasks to make it more engaging for energetic players.

2. Spot It!

• Why It Works: Strengthens visual attention and quick-thinking skills.
• Digital Alternative: Memory apps like Lumosity or CogniFit Brain Fitness provide similar benefits.

3. Jigsaw Puzzles

• Why It’s Effective: Improves sustained attention and problem-solving abilities.
• Pro Tip: Choose puzzles with themes your child enjoys, like animals or superheroes.

Games for Impulse Control

1. Red Light, Green Light

• How It Helps: Teaches self-regulation by requiring players to stop and start based on verbal cues.
• Digital Version: Reaction-based games like Fruit Ninja or Dashy Crashy encourage controlled movements.

2. Jenga

• Why It Works: Requires careful, deliberate actions to avoid toppling the tower, promoting patience and focus.
• Pro Tip: Play in teams to encourage collaborative decision-making.

3. Uno

• How It Helps: Builds impulse control and strategic thinking by teaching players to plan moves and wait their turn.
• Family Tip: Create themed versions to make the game more exciting.

Games for Social Skills

1. Charades

• Why It Helps: Enhances non-verbal communication and empathy through role-playing.
• Digital Option: Apps like Heads Up! offer a digital twist on this classic game.

2. Apples to Apples

• Why It’s Effective: Encourages creative thinking and friendly debates, sparking discussions and laughter.
• Pro Tip: Use age-appropriate card sets for younger players.

3. Minecraft (Multiplayer Mode)

• Why It Works: Promotes teamwork and creativity by encouraging players to collaborate on building projects.
• Parent Tip: Set shared goals, such as building a virtual house or exploring a map.

Games for Executive Functioning

1. Memory Match

• Why It Helps: Enhances working memory and cognitive flexibility.
• Digital Option: Apps like Elevate and CogniFit offer targeted memory games.

2. Chess

• Why It’s Great: Builds strategic planning, patience, and problem-solving skills.
• Online Option: Platforms like Chess.com allow for interactive tutorials and matches.

3. Clue

• Why It Helps: Encourages logical reasoning and deduction through solving mysteries.
• Family Tip: Add storytelling elements to make the game more engaging.

Games for Physical Activity and Energy Regulation

1. Dance Freeze

• Why It Helps: Combines movement with impulse control, teaching players to stop and start on cue.
• Digital Alternative: Games like Just Dance or Ring Fit Adventure add a high-energy, tech-driven experience.

2. Twister

• Why It’s Fun: Improves body coordination and focus while offering a playful challenge.
• Pro Tip: Incorporate custom rules for added excitement.

3. Scavenger Hunts

• Why It Works: Combines physical activity with goal-oriented tasks, enhancing focus and organizational skills.
• Custom Tip: Use themed hunts for birthdays or family events.

Tips for Choosing ADHD-Friendly Games

1. Prioritize Engagement: Select games that align with the player’s interests to sustain motivation.
2. Balance Stimulation: Avoid games with excessive visual or auditory distractions.
3. Encourage Collaboration: Cooperative games build social interaction and teamwork.
4. Monitor Screen Time: Balance digital games with offline activities for a well-rounded experience.

Final Thoughts

Games are more than just entertainment—they’re powerful tools for managing ADHD symptoms and fostering cognitive growth. From FDA-approved therapeutic games like EndeavorRx to family classics like Simon Says, the right games can transform challenges into opportunities for fun and learning.

Start exploring these options today, and see how they can help you or your loved one thrive. Share this article with friends, family, or educators to spread awareness about the benefits of ADHD-friendly games!