Hoyle Monkey May I Card Game – Learn Good Choices & Self-Control for Kids Ages 4-6

Monkey May I is a children's card game from Hoyle that teaches kids ages 4 to 6 how to identify good choices and practice self-control. Designed for 2 to 4 players, the game is simple to set up, easy to learn, and each round takes 15 minutes or less. It blends the classic fun of Simon Says with decision-making challenges, making it a playful way to develop social and cognitive skills.

What Is the Hoyle Monkey May I Game?

This card game uses a deck of cards that show a monkey performing different actions or presenting choices. Players take turns drawing cards and either mimic the monkey's action quickly (like in Simon Says) or pick the correct answer from two options on a "Monkey, May I" card. The goal is to earn the most Monkey money by being first to copy an action or by making the right choice. With two levels of play, the game adapts as kids grow, keeping them engaged and challenged.

How to Play

Set up is straightforward: place the draw pile face down and turn over the top card to start a discard pile. If the card shows a monkey doing an action, all players race to perform the same action. The first player to do it correctly takes a dollar from the Monkey bank. If a player draws a "Monkey, May I" card, they must choose between two options—only one is the right thing to do. The game ends when a set time or number of rounds is reached, and the player with the most Mon keys wins.

Learning Through Play

Hoyle designed Monkey May I to nurture important skills like fair play, intelligence, and fun. By playing, children develop self-confidence and learn to recognize good versus poor choices in a low-pressure setting. The game also encourages social interaction, turn-taking, and quick thinking. It's part of Hoyle's award-winning line of educational games that can be learned in minutes and played in under half an hour.

Game Details at a Glance

Common Questions About This Card Game

What age group is Monkey May I for?

The game is designed for children ages 4 to 6, with two levels of play to match different abilities.

How many people can play?

It supports 2 to 4 players, making it great for small groups or family time.

How long does a game take?

Each game can be played in 15 minutes or less, so it's quick to set up and finish.

What skills does the game teach?

Monkey May I helps kids practice recognizing good choices, exercising self-control, and developing social and cognitive skills through structured play.

This compact card game is easy to take anywhere—perfect for family gatherings, playdates, or travel. It's a fun, screen‑free activity that combines a beloved Simon‑says mechanic with gentle lessons about decision‑making.