Learn to Play Play to Learn

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February 19-22, 2026
A yellow icon of a calendar with squares on it.

Irvine, CA
A yellow icon of a calendar with squares on it.

February 19-22, 2026
A yellow icon of a calendar with squares on it.

Irvine, CA

GameSchoolCon is a weekend-long celebration of learning through play—where homeschoolers, gamers, and curious families come together for fun, connection, and community.

What Is GameSchoolCon?

At GameSchoolCon, we bring together families who learn outside the box—and play outside the rulebook. From board games and D&D to hands-on workshops and creative chaos, we celebrate curiosity, connection, and the joy of learning through play.

This four-day gameschooling conference is designed for homeschoolers, unschoolers, and traditionally educating families who want to infuse more play and connection into their learning lives. Whether you're just getting started or have years of experience, you'll find community, inspiration, and your people here.

Learn More About GameSchoolCon

What to Expect at GameSchoolCon

Choose from a huge selection of classic favorites and new discoveries. Open all weekend long for free play and fun!

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Speakers & Panels

Get inspired by real-life gameschoolers and game-based learning experts. Great for new and seasoned families alike.

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Video Games

Play in our friendly console lounge or compete in tournaments like Mario Kart and Smash Bros.

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Active

Games

From Nerf battles and Quidditch to Laser Tag and Live Action Mario Party—get moving and get silly!

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Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

New to tabletop? A seasoned GM? Join us for epic adventures and one-shots all weekend long.

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Exhibit

Hall

Shop educational games, books, handmade goods, and more. Open on Saturday.

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Evening

Events

Party Games, Teen Improv, and our can't-miss Family Dance Party—something fun every night!

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Homegrown Artists’ Alley

Friday night only! Sell your art, crafts, and gently used games—and keep all your earnings.

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Kinetic

Playroom

Build, race, and play! With Hot Wheels, LEGO bricks, and other hands-on toys, the Kinetic Playroom is a space for tactile fun and creative movement.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

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    "I came for the games but stayed for the people. It’s not just an event—it’s a community. Already counting down to next year!"


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    "From the Board Game Library to the Homegrown Artist Aley, every detail was thoughtful and inclusive. It’s the only conference my whole family begs to come back to."

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    "As a new homeschooler, I was overwhelmed—until I came here. I left with confidence, community, and a suitcase full of games!"

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    "GameSchoolCon was everything we didn’t know we needed. Our kids made new friends, we discovered amazing games, and we left feeling inspired and connected."

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    "Panels, board games, active game spaces, and zero pressure. GameSchoolCon is the most welcoming, joyful event we've ever attended as a family."

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    "This was our first year and we were blown away. The kids were engaged from start to finish—and so were we. It felt like finding our people."

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New to gameschooling?

See how games build real skills and confidence with our free Beginner’s Guide to Gameschooling.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Get Involved with GameSchoolCon

Exhibitors

Showcase your games, books, crafts, or tools to a vibrant community of homeschoolers, unschoolers, and curious families. Our audience loves indie creators and educational magic.

Apply to Exhibit

Sponsors & Advertisers

Reach passionate, engaged families who value creativity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. Sponsor a space, place an ad, or partner with us to build something awesome together.

Become a Sponsor

Volunteers

Want to be part of the magic? Volunteers are the heart of GameSchoolCon—and we’d love your help.

Join the Crew

Game Designers

Have a tabletop, card, or RPG game to share? Host a playtest, run a session, or demo your latest design for a crowd that gets it. We’re your biggest fans.

Submit Your Game

Roll for Inspiration

Curious about how families learn through play? Check out our blog for tips, stories, and inspiration from the world of gameschooling—plus behind-the-scenes looks at GameSchoolCon!

Explore the Blog

Making the Space: How Games Bring People Together

By Alex Cook • October 28, 2025
Part of a two-part series with Unschooling Mom2Mom, explore how games connect people, spark conversation, and help families build lasting community.
Person in blue shirt with head resting on arms, appearing sad.

When Losing Is Learning: Helping Kids Build Resilience Through Play

October 22, 2025
Kids need safe ways to experience frustration and practice perseverance. Learn how games help children build resilience, and emotional strength through play.
Four children and an adult playing a game on a rug indoors.

Nurturing Social and Emotional Skills Through Cooperative Play

October 15, 2025
How cooperative games help children build empathy, communication, and self-regulation. Learn simple ways to nurture social and emotional learning through play.
Hand holding a black PlayStation 4 controller, with a blurry TV in the background.

5 Games That Teach Kids Real Leadership Skills

By Alex Cook • October 6, 2025
From Codenames to Call of Duty, these five games secretly teach teamwork, adaptability, and leadership; skills kids can use for life.

Join Us at GameSchoolCon, Feb 19-22

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Time for GameschoolCon, Let's Pay!