Outdoor games are a great way to keep kids active and engaged while having fun in the fresh air. With the rise of technology and screen time, it’s more important than ever to encourage kids to get outside and play. Here are some fun and exciting outdoor games that kids of all ages can enjoy.
1. Tag
Tag is a classic outdoor game that never gets old. All you need is a group of kids and a wide open space to play. The game is simple – one person is “it” and chases the other players, trying to tag them. Once a player is tagged, they become the new “it”. Tag is a great way to get kids running around and burning off energy.
2. Red Rover
Red Rover is another classic outdoor game that is perfect for large groups of kids. Divide the group into two teams and have them hold hands in a line. One team calls out “Red Rover, Red Rover, send (name of player) right over!” The player they call has to run and try to break through the other team’s linked arms. If they succeed, they get to bring a player back to their team. The game continues until one team has all the players.
3. Capture the Flag
Capture the Flag is a strategic outdoor game that requires teamwork and stealth. Divide the group into two teams and give each team a flag to hide on their side of the playing field. The objective is to sneak into the other team’s territory, find their flag, and bring it back to your side without getting tagged. Capture the Flag is a great game for kids to work together and come up with a plan to outsmart the other team.
4. Kickball
Kickball is a fun twist on traditional baseball that is perfect for playing outdoors. All you need is a rubber ball and some bases to set up a game. The rules are similar to baseball – one team kicks the ball and tries to run around the bases, while the other team tries to tag them out. Kickball is a great way for kids to work on their kicking, running, and teamwork skills.
5. Simon Says
Simon Says is a classic game that is perfect for playing outdoors. One person plays the role of “Simon” and gives commands to the other players such as “Simon says touch your toes” or “Simon says jump up and down”. The catch is that players can only follow the command if it starts with “Simon says”. If “Simon” gives a command without saying “Simon says”, players who follow the command are out. Simon Says is a fun and active game that kids can play anywhere.
6. Duck, Duck, Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is a fun and high-energy game that is perfect for playing outdoors. All you need is a group of kids sitting in a circle. One player walks around the circle tapping each player on the head, saying “duck” each time. When they finally say “goose”, the player they tapped has to chase them around the circle and try to tag them before they can sit back down in the empty spot. Duck, Duck, Goose is a great game for kids to get moving and laughing.
7. Frisbee
Frisbee is a classic outdoor game that is perfect for kids of all ages. All you need is a Frisbee and an open space to play. Kids can toss the Frisbee back and forth, play a game of catch, or even set up a game of Frisbee golf. Frisbee is a great way for kids to work on their hand-eye coordination and get some exercise while having fun.
8. Water Balloon Toss
Water balloon toss is a fun and refreshing outdoor game that is perfect for hot summer days. Fill up a bunch of water balloons and pair kids up into teams. Have them toss the water balloon back and forth, taking a step back with each successful catch. The team that can toss the water balloon the farthest without it breaking wins. Water balloon toss is a great way for kids to cool off and have some wet and wild fun.
Overall, outdoor games are a great way to keep kids active and entertained. Whether it’s running around playing tag, strategizing in Capture the Flag, or tossing a Frisbee back and forth, there are plenty of options for kids to enjoy the great outdoors. So next time your kids are itching for some fun, grab some friends, head outside, and let the games begin!
