The ATP Kids Research Game
$30.00
0% of our first production run reserved
Turn kids into word detectives. In this board game, players research a phrase, like “once in a blue moon” or “let the cat out of the bag,” by collecting clues about its origin, meaning, and picture, then grade it from A to F. First to appraise their phrase correctly wins.
- For grades 4–6 · 2–4 players or teams · 45 – 60 mins for effective play
- Builds vocabulary, reading comprehension, and research skills
- Supports Common Core language standards
- Includes a parent and teacher guide with lesson ideas
Pre-order: estimated to ship Spring 2027, sooner if we reach our first production goal early. Full refund if we don’t reach it by March 31, 2027.
100% of ATP Kids net proceeds fund Raise The Bar, our 501(c)(3) youth literacy nonprofit.
Pre-order: estimated to ship Spring 2027. Full refund if our first production goal isn't reached by March 31, 2027.
Spark curiosity. Ask questions. Find the answers!
Why do we say “crocodile tears”? Where did “cut to the chase” come from? The ATP Kids Research Game turns everyday phrases into a mystery kids want to solve. Instead of memorizing definitions, players investigate: they gather clues, connect the evidence, and figure out what a phrase really means and where it started.
How to play
- Draw a phrase. Each player or team gets a Phrase Card. Decide whether everyone plays with 1, 2, or 3 phrases.
- Research the clues. Roll the die and move around the board. Action spaces send you to collect Research, Origin, Meaning, and Visual cards.
- Appraise it. Once you’ve collected a full set for your phrase, check the answer book. If you’re right, give your phrase a grade from A to F on your appraisal pad. First to appraise their phrase correctly wins.
A full set: 1 Phrase card · 2 Research cards · 1 Origin card · 1 Meaning card · 1 Visual card
Built for the classroom, fun at home
The game supplements English, reading, and writing lessons with something kids actually ask to play. It supports three Common Core State Standards:
- L.3.5.A: Distinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context
- L.4.5.B and L.5.5.B: Recognize and explain the meaning of common idioms, adages, and proverbs
It uses proven teaching techniques: picture association, the five elements of teaching research skills (a clearly defined task, keyword discovery, using research tools, source discovery, and note-taking), and timed repeated reading. The included guide for parents, guardians, and teachers explains what idioms are, why they help with literacy, and how to extend the game with an idiom wall, drawings, and role-play.
What’s inside
- 1 ATP Kids game board
- 5 decks of ATP Kids cards
- 4 ATP Kids phrase tokens
- 4 ATP Kids pencils
- 4 ATP Kids appraisal pads
- 1 die
- 1 rules and research manual with answer key
Designed by Maddie Hagerman.
Pre-order details
The ATP Kids Research Game is made in production runs, and pre-orders make the first run possible. Your card is charged when you order. The game is estimated to ship Spring 2027, sooner if we reach our first production goal early. If we don’t reach that goal by March 31, 2027, every pre-order is refunded in full. You can cancel your pre-order for a full refund any time before it ships.
Ordering for a school or program? Bulk pricing is available. [Request a bulk quote →]
A game that gives back. 100% of ATP Kids net proceeds fund Raise The Bar, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit that creates literacy programs for schools and youth organizations. Want to put a game in a classroom that can’t afford one? [Sponsor a game →]