Slapjack is a simple game but one that is entertaining and fast paced. Kids as young as three years old can play this game. There is no reading needed, or counting making this a perfect first card game for two or more players.
Other games that young kids with similar game play are Crazy 8s, Golf, James Bond and Spoons.
In this post we’ll cover what you need, how to play, the rules and how to win. Let’s get to it.
This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.
What you need for Slapjack
This game is easy, needing only a single deck of cards. If you need some new cards, check out the selection here; Canadians here. We think the Crazy Chicken Lady ones are fun looking!
Playing Slapjack
To start, deal all the cards out facedown. It doesn’t matter if there is an even or uneven amount. Each player will keep their pile on the table.
On a player’s turn, she will flip the top card over into the middle of the playing area. How she flips the cards is important. Cards should be flipped away from the player so that an unfair advantage isn’t gained by seeing the card first.
Next, if the card is anything but a Jack, then the turn is over and the player on the left flips over their top card.
On the other hand, if the flipped up card is a Jack then the race is on. The first player to slap their hand on the card wins all of the cards. She will then add the stack of cards to the bottom of her pile. The next player then flips over their top card and it starts again.
Cards should be flipped over in a fast pace to make the game more interesting and engaging. However, when playing with very young players a slower pace can be held to make the game more accessible.
Un-Jack Slap
When a player slaps his hand on a card that is not a jack, he must pay a fine. He gives the top card from his stack to the player who played the card that he slapped.
Out of Cards
When a player is out of cards, she is still in the game. When the next jack is turned over, she must be the first player to slap her hand on the card to win. Otherwise, she is out of the game.
Winning Slapjack
The player who wins all of the cards is the winner.
The Slap of It
Slapjack is a game all about speed and observation. It is fun, easy and face paced. Kids will love slapping their hands on the stack of cards and shouting when they win that pile. They especially love when they beat parents at it—boosting their confidence and making memories. You can get the printable rules for Slapjack here.
If there a card game that you love playing with your kids? We’d love to hear about it. Just leave us a comment below. And if you’re looking for more fun games, check out our card games here.
All of your cards looking beat up? No problem, you can get new ones here. We like the Unicorn ones and the Spiderman ones too. Canadians can get their playing cards here.
For more fun card games, visit our 10 Cards games for kids and our Crazy Fish card game that kids simply adore. Check out our Family Game Shelf shop for tons of fun with seasonal and original games like our Whacky Putt mini golf dice game. Check our our line of escape room games for kids too–and keep them busy for hours!
Be the first to reply