Kids are bundles of energy, and it’s truly impressive how they can wake up at dawn, turn the house upside down by lunchtime, and still be eager for afternoon activities. You might dream of a plan that includes naps, but let’s be real—that rarely works out. If you’re searching for ways to tire out your little ones while making exercise enjoyable, these running games are perfect. They not only promote fun but also spark a bit of friendly competition!
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Sharks and Minnows
Choose one player to be the “shark” who stands at one end of the yard. The rest are “minnows” at the opposite end. When you say “go,” all minnows must sprint to the other side without being tagged. If a minnow gets tagged, they become a shark too. The remaining minnows must then return to the starting point while dodging the sharks. Repeat until only one minnow is left standing. -
Tag
This classic game requires no explanation! One child is “it” and chases the others in an attempt to tag them. Once tagged, the player becomes “it.” This game continues until everyone is worn out—no formal end needed! -
Color Tag
Hide small containers of colored face paint around the play area. Designate one player as “it.” The others must scurry to find the face paints and mark their faces with colors, aiming to collect all five shades of the rainbow. If “it” tags someone, that player must erase one color. The first player to successfully keep all five colors wins! -
Last One Out
Decide on a lap size and have all kids run around it a number of times equal to how many participants there are. After each lap, the last child to finish is out. The last player remaining is the winner! -
Pony Express
Create a circle in the yard and split the kids into two teams on opposite sides. When you say “go,” one player from each team must race around the circle in the same direction and tag the next teammate. If a player from the opposing team passes someone, that player is out. -
Water Balloon Relay
Have the kids form teams or pairs and carry a water balloon around a designated lap. After finishing the lap, they must pass the balloon to their teammate. If the balloon pops, they must start over. It’s a fun challenge that keeps everyone on their toes! -
Capture The Flag
This game is best with a larger group and plenty of space. Set boundaries and establish “jail” areas while the kids come up with their version of a “flag.” The objective is to capture the other team’s flag while protecting your own. -
Steal The Bacon
Divide the kids into two teams and place an item (like a shoe or a ball) in the center. On your signal, the first player from each side races to grab the item before the other team does. The next player in line takes their turn after that. -
Pickle
Set up two bases about 10 yards apart and assign two players to guard each base. The rest of the kids stand in between. The guards start tossing two balls to each other. After a few tosses, the other players try to run to one of the bases without being tagged. -
Red Light, Green Light
Have the kids line up on one side of the play area while you face away from them. When you call out “green light,” they can run toward you. At any moment, you can shout “red light” and turn around. Anyone caught moving is out. The first to reach you wins!
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In summary, these fun running games will help your kids burn off that endless energy while enjoying some healthy competition. With a mix of excitement and movement, they’ll be asking for more!