While the pandemic may have kept us indoors for a while, it’s essential to find joy outside, even if it’s just in your backyard. Fresh air can do wonders for your mood, and there are plenty of safe ways to engage with the outdoors. Even if gathering at a park isn’t an option, a stroll around the block or enjoying some time on your porch can greatly uplift your spirits. Kids still need opportunities to connect with nature, and just because we’re home more doesn’t mean they can’t have fun. Playing games like those listed below can help them burn off that extra energy while also providing some much-needed laughter. So, grab some sunscreen, fill up a water bottle, and let the play begin!
Remember the days of running around freely between your yard and your friends’ houses? Nowadays, it seems like kids are more glued to screens than bouncing around outside. It takes a little creativity to get them engaged, and these outdoor games do just that!
Want to discover even more fun activities for the whole family? Check out our collection of minute-to-win-it challenges, farm-themed games, musical activities, and even the best inflatable pools for your backyard!
1. Rainbow Tag
This game thrives in an area with plenty of hiding spots. Before starting, hide painted Popsicle sticks (one for each rainbow color) around the play area. Each stick should come with a corresponding face paint stick. Choose someone to be “it,” and while they chase the others, players must find the sticks and color their faces. If “it” tags someone, they must wipe off a color. The first to complete their rainbow wins!
2. Giant Memory Game
Using 12-16 poster boards, create oversized memory cards. You don’t need to be an artist; simple drawings of various emotions can work. This game will not only entertain but also help kids learn about feelings.
3. Steal The Bacon
Similar to Capture The Flag, place an object in the center of a designated area. Players stand at the perimeter with one person guarding the item (the “bacon”). On your signal, they try to grab the bacon without being tagged. The first to succeed wins!
4. Sharks vs. Minnows
Designate one player as the shark and the rest as minnows. The minnows line up on one side of the yard, aiming to cross to the other without getting tagged. If caught, they become sharks too! The last minnow standing wins.
5. Scavenger Hunt
You can make this as simple or elaborate as you like. Create a list of items from nature or ask players to find specific colors or shapes. For example, who can find the roundest rock?
6. Hula Hoop Game
Have players form a line while holding hands and pass a hula hoop down the line without breaking their grip. Increase the challenge by introducing multiple hoops!
7. Obstacle Course
Help your kids design an obstacle course using various elements from your yard. They might crawl under benches or weave through balls – the possibilities are endless.
8. Yard Twister
Use biodegradable yard paint to create a Twister board outside. Sit back and enjoy the laughter that ensues!
9. Ladder Toss
There are two variations to this game. One involves tossing bean bags at a ladder with points assigned to each rung. The other uses long socks with bean bags at either end, trying to hook them on the rungs.
10. Marco Polo
Typically a water game, this version can be played on land. “It” calls out “Marco,” while everyone else responds with “Polo.” Rely on hearing to find and tag your friends!
11. Freeze Tag
In this classic twist, tagged players freeze until another can unfreeze them.
12. Red Light, Green Light
Kids start at one end of the yard and run towards you when you say “green light.” If you shout “red light,” they must freeze. Those caught moving are out, and the first to reach you wins.
13. Follow The Recipe
This imaginative scavenger hunt has kids gathering specific items for a “soup.” For example, they might need twelve twigs or eight small flowers. Make it fun and specific!
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Summary
Outdoor games are a fantastic way for kids to burn off energy while enjoying fresh air and fun. From Rainbow Tag to Scavenger Hunts, there are countless ways to engage children’s imaginations and encourage physical activity.