Do you want to keep your kids entertained this summer? Then check out these 12 outdoor games for kids! These games are fun and exciting, keep your children using their imaginations, and keep them busy for hours.
These games are perfect for any outdoor setting, whether at the park, beach, or backyard. So grab some friends and get ready to have some fun!
Outdoor Games for Kids
Here are some outdoor games that your kids will love!
1. Hide and Seek
Hide-and-seek is a classic game that can be played anywhere, making it an excellent choice for rainy days or when you're stuck indoors. All you need is a group of friends and a bit of imagination.
One player is chosen to be the seeker, and the others hide. The seeker then has to find all the hidden players. The game can be made more challenging by setting a time limit or adding obstacles, like only being able to seek in certain areas.
Hide and seek is a great way to burn off some energy, especially if you're stuck indoors. And it's also a lot of fun! No matter how you play, hide-and-seek is sure to provide hours of fun.
2. Tag
People of all ages can enjoy playing tag. It's a great way to get some exercise, and it can be played anywhere. All you need is a group of friends and a bit of space.
One player is chosen to be "it," and the others run away. The player who is "it" then has to chase the others and tag them. Once a player is tagged, they become "it," and the game starts over.
Tag is an excellent game for kids because it helps them get some exercise while also having fun. It's also a good game to play when you're short on time or space. So next time you're looking for a fun activity, consider playing tag with your friends.
3. Red Light, Green Light
One of the all-time classic outdoor play, Red Light, Green Light is a great way to get kids up and to move. The object of the Traffic light game is simple - to be the first person to reach the finish line without getting caught by the person who is "it."
To play, one person is chosen to be "it" and stands at one end of the playing area. The other players line up at the other end. When "it," says "green light," everyone starts running toward him or her. But when "it," says "red light," everyone must stop. If anyone is caught moving, they have to go back to the start line. The first person to reach "it" wins!
You can make the game more challenging by adding in other rules, like requiring players to freeze in place when "it" says "freeze" or do a silly dance when "it" says "dance." So get creative and have fun!
4. Simon Says
Simon Says is a classic game that can be played both indoors and outdoors. It's an excellent game for kids of all ages and can be enjoyed by adults too!
To play Simon Says, one player is chosen to be Simon. The other players stand in front of Simon, who then gives them instructions.
These instructions must be followed exactly, or else the player is out! So, for example, Simon might say, "Simon says touch your nose."
If the players touch their noses, they stay in the game. But if even one player doesn't touch their nose (or touches their nose before Simon says so), they're out.
Once a player is out, they sit down and watch the others continue playing. The last player standing is the winner!
Simon Says is a great game for large groups, as it can be played with an unlimited number of players. It's also a good game to play when you're stuck indoors on a rainy day. So next time you're looking for some fun, give Simon Says a try!
5. Duck, Duck, Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is another classic game that kids of all ages can enjoy. It can be played with a large group of kids or just a few. To play, all the kids sit in a circle on the ground.
One child is chosen to be the "goose" and walks around outside the circle. As they walk, they tap each child on the head and say, "duck."
But when they reach the child they want to tag, they say "goose" instead. That child then gets up and chases the goose around the circle.
If they catch the goose before he makes it all the way around, they become the new goose! If the goose makes it all the way around the circle without being caught, he can choose any child to be the new goose.
Duck, Duck, Goose is a great game to get kids moving and laughing. It's also an excellent way to practice their motor skills and learn turn-taking.
6. Mother, May I?
Mother May I? is a classic game that can be played with two or more people. It's perfect for younger kids, as it doesn't require any reading.
To play, one player is chosen to be "Mother." The other players line up at the other end of the room (or yard).
The mother then calls out to each player, asking them if they may do something. For example, she might say, "Player 1, may you take four giant steps forward?"
If the player responds with "Yes, Mother, I may," they are allowed to do what Mother asked. If they respond with anything else (including simply saying "No"), they must stay where they are.
The first player to reach Mother is the winner!
Mother May I? is a great game for kids of all ages. It helps them practice their listening skills and follow directions. It's also a lot of fun!
7. Freeze Dance
This game can get kids up and move while still being socially distanced. All you need is some music and maybe some props if you want to get fancy.
To play, start the music and have the kids dance around. When the music stops, they have to freeze in place. The last person to freeze is out (or gets the point, depending on how you score).
You can make it more challenging by adding in moves that everyone has to do when the music stops, like touching their toes or hopping on one foot. Or, if you want to keep it simpler, just let them bust a move however they want when the tunes are playing.
This outdoor game for kids keeps them moving, and they can still be socially distanced while playing. It’s also a great way to get them to let loose and have some fun.
8. Capture The Flag
This is a classic game with tons of variations that can be played outdoors. The basic gist is that there are two teams, each with a “base” or “flag.” The object of the game is to go into enemy territory and capture their flag while protecting your own.
If you want to add some additional challenges, you can divide the playing area into different zones with different rules. For example, one zone could be a safe zone where players can’t be tagged. Or, you could have a jail where if players are caught, they have to do a challenge (like 10 pushups) before a teammate can free them.
There are endless possibilities for this outdoor game, and it’s great for kids of all ages. It encourages teamwork, strategy, and critical thinking while getting some exercise.
9. Hot Potato
This game can be played with a group or just two people. All you need is an object to pass around (like a ball or Frisbee) and some music.
To play, start the music and have everyone pass the object around in a circle. When the music stops, whoever is holding the object is out (or gets the point).
You can make it more challenging by adding in different rules, like requiring players to do a certain move when they get the object (like 10 jumping jacks) or only allowing them to use one hand.
10. Scavenger Hunt
This is a great game for kids of all ages, and it can be tailored to any location and group size.
To set up, you’ll need to make a list of items that can be found in the area where you’re playing. This can be anything from “a rock that’s bigger than your fist” to “a leaf that’s shaped like a heart.”
Then, divide the players into teams and give each team a copy of the list. The game's object is to be the first team to find all the items on the list.
You can make it more challenging by adding time limits or limiting the number of people who can go out looking for items at one time.
This game is great for kids because it gets them to explore their surroundings and use their observational skills. Plus, it’s a lot of fun!
11. Sidewalk chalk
Sidewalk chalk is a classic outdoor activity that is great for kids of all ages. All you need is some chalk and a sidewalk or driveway.
You can use the chalk to draw pictures, write words, or make whatever designs you want. You can even play games and activities like hopscotch or Four Square.
Sidewalk chalk is a great way to encourage kids to be creative and get outside. Plus, it’s super easy to set up and clean up.
Some of the benefits of this fun outdoor game include encouraging creativity, promoting physical activity, and being easy to use.
12. Jump Rope
Jump rope is a great outdoor activity for kids because it's easy to set up and requires no equipment. All you need is a rope (or even just the length of the string) and some space.
You can use the jump rope to play games, do tricks, or jump for fun. It's a great way to get kids moving, and it's a lot of fun! Plus, it has some great benefits.
Jumping rope is a great way to get some exercise. It's also a great way to improve coordination and balance. And it can be done anywhere!
Whether you're at the park, in the backyard, or even indoors, you can always find a place to jump rope.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor games are a great way to keep kids active and entertained. There are many different kinds of outdoor games that kids can enjoy, so there is sure to be something to suit every child’s taste.
To keep your kids occupied, take a look at the list above. If you want a reputable source for play equipment, check out Park N Play Design. They offer a wide range of outdoor games that will keep kids engaged and excited. So get outside and start playing!
FAQs
Here are the frequently asked questions for Outdoor games.
What benefits can you get from outdoor activities?
There are many benefits to be had from outdoor activities! For one, spending time outside can help improve your mood and relieve stress. Additionally, being in nature has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory and can even help reduce symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. Outdoor exercise is also a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin D!
What's the most popular outdoor activity?
The most popular outdoor activity is hiking, and the reason it's so popular is that it provides a great workout while also offering an amazing opportunity to enjoy nature.
How do outdoor activities increase confidence?
Outdoor activities increase confidence by helping people to become more comfortable in their surroundings. They see that they can cope with new challenges and learn new skills. This increased sense of self-efficacy then leads to an increased feeling of self-confidence.
How will you ensure your safety during outdoor activities?
Kids playing outdoors can be a lot of fun, but it's important to take some basic safety precautions to keep everyone safe. Here are a few tips:
1. Ensure the area is well-lit and free of hazards like broken glass or sharp objects.
2. Always stay close to the kids, especially if they play in an unfamiliar area.
3. Teach them how to stay safe around cars and other traffic hazards.
4. Warn them about poisonous plants and animals, and teach them what to do if they encounter one.
5. Keep a close eye on them at all times, and never leave them unattended.
How do you manage risk in outdoor activities?
There are a few things to consider when trying to manage risk in outdoor games with kids. One of the most important is teaching kids how to play safely and keeping an eye on them while they're playing. You can also try to choose games that are less risky. It's also essential to ensure the area where you're playing is free of hazards like sticks or sharp rocks. Finally, be prepared for accidents and have first-aid supplies on hand, just in case.
What games are played with a bean bag?
Bean bag games can be played indoors or outdoors. Some popular bean bag games include:
-Corn hole (also known as bean bag toss)
-Bean bag race and more
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