Group GamesGames for kids
Simple, active games for children's parties, school breaks and holidays at home. The rules take one minute to explain, nobody needs to read much, and every game can be made easier for the youngest child. An adult should watch over running games and choose a safe, open place.
- Treasure Hunt at HomeA chain of written clues leads players from one hiding place to the next, until the last clue takes them to a hidden prize.Games for kids · 2 or more players · 30 minutes, plus 20 to prepare
- Memory TrayPlayers look at a tray of objects for one minute.Games for kids · 2 or more players · 10 minutes
- Statue (Freeze Dance)Everybody dances while the music plays.Games for kids · 3 or more players · 10 minutes
- Leader SaysThe leader gives quick commands.Games for kids · 3 or more players · 10 minutes
- Picnic RacesA set of simple races turns any park visit, school fair or family picnic into a sports day.Games for kids · 6 or more players · 30 to 45 minutes
Choosing a game by age
- Three to five years: Statue (Freeze Dance) and Leader Says. There are no turns to wait for and no reading, and nobody needs to be "out".
- Five to eight years: Memory Tray, Treasure Hunt with picture clues and the easier Picnic Races. Children of this age love finding and remembering things.
- Eight to twelve years: a Treasure Hunt with written riddles, team races, and party games such as Draw and Guess.
Running games with children
Explain a game by playing one practice round, not by listing rules; children learn a game with their feet. Keep each game to ten or fifteen minutes and change before boredom sets in. Alternate a running game with a sitting one, so that the room cools down. Decide before the party how winners are rewarded: small children are happier when every player gets something, and older ones when the prize is fair and the judge is not their own parent.
Losing, crying and fairness
For children under six, being "out" can feel like a punishment. Change the rule: a child who is out becomes a judge, a clapper or the music-keeper, and comes back in the next round. Mix ages when you make teams, so that one team does not hold all the older children. Praise effort and kindness aloud, such as "Well waited!" or "Thank you for helping her," as often as you praise winning.
Safety first
Clear the floor of toys and sharp corners before a running game. Play races only on grass or sand. Keep small objects away from toddlers during Memory Tray. An adult should watch every active game from start to finish. For outdoor classics, see the traditional Indian games.