Outdoor Games for Kids

• 🚶‍♂️   1. Tag
• 🐙   2. Octopus Game
• 🕵️‍♂️   3. Grounders Game
• 🚦   4. Red Light, Green Light
• 🚓   5. Cops and Robbers
• 👀   6. Hide-and-Seek
• 🗣   7. Simon Says with a Twist
• 🦆   8. Duck, Duck, Goose
• 👩‍👧   9. Mother May I?
• 🎉   10. Most Likely To
• 🏃‍♂️   11. Obstacle Course
• 🎯   12. Hula Hoops
• 🥓   13. Steal the Bacon
• 🪢   14. Jump Rope Games
• 🔥   15. Hot Potato
• ⚡   16. SPUD!
• ❓   FAQs about Outdoor Party Games for Kids

Let’s talk about getting kids off their screens and into the great outdoors. I know, it sounds like a huge task but trust me, it’s worth it.

Outdoor play for children isn’t just about burning off that endless energy. It’s crucial for their development—physically, mentally, emotionally. Plus, they get to learn life skills like teamwork and problem-solving without even realizing it.

Now, let’s get into why no-equipment games are the best. No need for fancy gadgets or expensive toys; just pure fun powered by imagination and a bit of running around. These games are simple, inclusive, and can be played anywhere.

We’ve got 16 fun outdoor games for kids lined up that’ll keep them entertained for hours. Each game comes with detailed rules and some pro tips to make sure everyone has a blast. So whether you’re planning a birthday party or just trying to avoid hearing “I’m bored” for the millionth time, we’ve got you covered.

1. Tag

So, what’s the deal with Tag? It’s the original playground game, where one kid is “it” and has to chase down others to tag them. Once tagged, you’re now “it”. Easy enough, right?

But wait, there’s more! Check out these fun variations:

Freeze Tag: Chill Out!

• Objective: Avoid being tagged by the “it” player.
• Rules:
• If you get tagged, you have to freeze in place.
• You can only be unfrozen if another player touches you.
• The game continues until everyone is frozen or the “it” player gives up from exhaustion.

Toilet Tag: Flushing Fun

• Objective: Same as Freeze Tag but with an embarrassing twist.
• Rules:
• If tagged, you have to squat and hold out your hand like a toilet handle.
• To get back in the game, another player must “flush” you by tapping your hand.
• Try not to giggle too hard when pretending to be a toilet.

Shadow Tag: Play with Light

• Objective: Avoid having your shadow stepped on.
• Rules:
• The “it” player tries to step on other players’ shadows instead of tagging them directly.
• When your shadow gets stepped on, guess what? You become “it”.
• Best played on sunny days unless you enjoy stumbling around in the dark.

Tag isn’t just a game; it’s a workout disguised as fun. Get ready to run, dodge, and maybe even flush!

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2. Octopus Game

Ever wanted to know what it feels like to be chased by a multi-tentacled sea creature? Try the Octopus Game!

How to Play Octopus Game

• The Octopus: One lucky person gets to be the octopus. This person stands in the middle of the playing field, pretending to have tentacles.
• Runners: The rest of you are the runners. Your job is simple—run for your lives.

1. Game Start: All runners line up on one side of the field. On “Go!”, they sprint to the other side, trying not to get tagged by the octopus.
2. Tagging: If a runner gets tagged, they become a “tentacle” and must freeze in place. They can only move their arms to tag other runners passing by.
3. Winning: The last runner standing—well, running—is the winner and becomes the octopus in the next round.

Tips for Playing Octopus Game

• Sneaky Moves: Change directions quickly or fake out the octopus with sudden stops.
• Teamwork: Coordinate with fellow runners to distract the octopus while others make a dash for safety.

Ready to channel your inner marine life? Check out this fun list of carnival games for kids!

3. Grounders Game

Want to play a game where one person is “it” and everyone else is basically Spider-Man? Try Grounders, this playground classic is all about agility and stealth.

How to Play Grounders Game

1. The Setup: Players gather around a playground structure (like a jungle gym or monkey bars). One player is chosen as “it.”
2. Objective: The “it” player must tag others while keeping their eyes shut. Yes, you read that right—eyes shut.
3. Twist: The catch is, the “it” player can only tag others who are on the ground. If you’re on playground equipment, you’re safe… for now.

Tips for Playing Grounders Game

Let’s be real: being ‘it’ can get boring if everyone’s just hanging out on the monkey bars like it’s recess in 2002. Here’s how to keep things spicy:

1. Call-Outs: Introduce rules where the ‘it’ player can call out “Grounders!” If anyone is touching the ground when this call is made, they become the new ‘it’.
2. Time Limits: Set a timer for how long someone can stay off the ground before they must touch down again.
3. Blindfolds: If closing eyes feels too easy (for cheaters), add a blindfold to make it foolproof.

Ready to turn your local playground into the ultimate arena of stealth and strategy? Time to play Grounders!

👉 Suggested read: 16 Fun Water Games for Kids to Beat the Heat This Summer

4. Red Light, Green Light

Ah, the classic Red Light, Green Light game. The rules are about as simple as they get:

1. One player stands at a distance facing away from the others.
2. The rest line up and try to sneak up on them.
3. When the main player shouts “Green light!”, everyone races forward.
4. But when “Red light!” is yelled, everyone must freeze. Move an inch? Back to start, buddy!

Tips for Playing Red Light, Green Light:

• Add sudden mini-challenges: Throw in random commands like “Hop on one foot” during green lights.
• Speed rounds: Shorten the time between red and green lights to keep everyone on their toes.
• Theme it up: Turn it into a zombie apocalypse scenario or a spy mission.

This red light green light game is one of those fun activities for children that never gets old. And let’s be real, watching your friends faceplant while trying not to move? Comedy gold.

5. Cops and Robbers

Ah, the classic Cops and Robbers game — where your childhood dreams of being a crime - fighting hero or a sneaky bandit come to life. Here’s how to make it happen:

How to Play Cops and Robbers

• Cops: These are your law enforcers. Their mission? Catch the robbers and send them to jail (a designated area).
• Robbers: The sneaky masterminds. Their goal is to avoid getting caught and maybe even rescue their jailed comrades.

1. Divide into Teams: Split the group into two teams—cops and robbers. Make sure each team is balanced in terms of speed and agility.
2. Define Boundaries: Clearly mark the play area and the “jail” zone so no one can claim they didn’t know where they were supposed to be.
3. Set Rules:

• Cops catch robbers by tagging them.
• Once tagged, robbers must go to jail.
• Robbers can be freed from jail if another robber manages to tag them without getting caught.

4. Start the Game: Cops count to 20 while robbers scatter. Then it’s game on!

And just like that, you’ve got a high-energy, teamwork-filled adventure that keeps everyone on their toes!

📖 Suggested read: 13 Must-Try Fun Games to Play With Family This Weekend

6. Hide-and-Seek

Ah, the classic hide-and-seek. The original outdoor game for kids. The rules are simple: one player counts to a predetermined number while everyone else scurries off to find the most inconspicuous hiding spot.

But let’s add some spice:

• Sardines: One person hides while everyone seeks. When you find the hider, you squeeze into their spot until all players are packed in like… well, sardines.
• Shadow Seek: Hide in shadows only. If you’re caught outside of a shadow, you’re automatically “it.” Bonus points for getting creative with your shadow-hopping skills.

Hide and seek variations make this game endlessly entertaining and just a tad bit more challenging.

7. Simon Says with a Twist Game

Let’s spice up the classic game of Simon Says! This game is all about listening skills and quick reflexes. Here’s a quick reminder: one person (Simon) gives commands starting with “Simon says,” and players must only follow those commands. If Simon doesn’t say it, and you do it anyway, you’re out!

How to Play Simon Says

Standard Simon Says is fun, but let’s make it even better:

• Animal Movements: Instead of just touching your nose or clapping your hands, how about moving like a snake or hopping like a kangaroo?
• Dance Moves: Add in some flossing or moonwalking; the weirder, the better!
• Sound Effects: Make players bark like dogs or meow like cats while doing the actions. Multitasking level: expert.

Tips for Playing Simon Says

Sometimes people can lose interest quickly. Here’s how to keep everyone engaged:

Suggested read: 17 Ultimate Rainy Day Games to Keep the Fun Going Inside

1. Speed Round: Give commands quickly for an adrenaline rush.
2. Role Reversal: Let different kids play Simon after each round.
3. Silly Penalties: Anyone who messes up has to perform a funny task like singing their favorite song in an opera voice.

So there you have it! Next time you’re outside with nothing but endless energy and no toys, try these twists on Simon Says and watch the fun unfold!

8. Duck, Duck, Goose Game

Time to bring back those childhood memories and play Duck, Duck, Goose. You know how it goes: everyone sits in a circle, one person walks around tapping heads saying “duck,” and then suddenly someone is the “goose” and chases them.

But let’s make it more interesting because we don’t want to keep it basic.

How to Play Duck, Duck, Goose Game

1. Gather Your Friends: Get your friends together and have them sit in a circle.
2. Choose the Taper: Select one person to start the game by walking around the outside of the circle.

• The taper taps each person’s head saying “duck.”
• When they decide it’s time for some action, they say “goose!”
• The “goose” jumps up and chases the taper around the circle.
• If the taper makes it back to the goose’s spot without getting tagged, the goose becomes the new taper.

Tips for Playing Duck, Duck, Goose Game

How about we make it more exciting? Add these fun twists to make things wild:

📖 Suggested read: 17 Fun Games to Play with Friends Without Any Equipment

• One-Foot Hop: Instead of just running, both players must hop on one foot while chasing each other. Good luck balancing!
• Balancing Act: Each player must balance an object (like a small stick or even their shoe) on their head while running. Dropping it means instant loss!
• Animal Noises: Make it hilarious by having players make animal noises while being chased. Imagine someone squawking like a chicken—classic.
• Keep It Random: Encourage random ‘ducks’ to keep everyone on their toes.
• Safety First: Ensure your playing area is free from obstacles to avoid any trip hazards.
• Mix It Up: Rotate through different variations to keep things fresh and fun.

Duck, Duck, Goose is way more fun when you throw in some unexpected challenges. So get out there and turn this classic into an unforgettable adventure!

9. Mother May I?

Alright, gather ‘round kiddos, because it’s time to dust off a classic: Mother May I? You know the drill—or maybe you don’t. Either way, let’s get into it.

How to Play Mother May I?

1. The Setup: One player is designated as “Mother” (or Father, Teacher, Alien Overlord—get creative). The rest of the crew lines up about 15-20 feet away.
2. The Objective: Be the first to reach and tag “Mother” without getting sent back to the start.

• **Gameplay:**Players take turns asking “Mother” if they can perform a certain action to move closer. For example, “Mother, may I take three giant steps?”
• “Mother” gets to decide whether to grant permission (“Yes, you may”) or deny it (“No, you may not”). Sometimes “Mother” might offer an alternative action instead.

Because just walking is soooo last century, let’s add some challenges:

• Silly Steps: Instead of regular steps, try moves like bunny hops, crab walks, or moonwalks. Who doesn’t want to moonwalk their way to victory?
• Dance Party: Incorporate dance moves when asking for permission: “Mother, may I take two disco steps?”
• Animal Actions: Pretend to be different animals—flap like a bird or waddle like a penguin. Trust me; it’s hilarious.

Tips for Playing Mother May I?

• Make sure the goal area is clearly marked so everyone knows where they’re heading.
• Mix up the actions often to keep things unpredictable and fun.
• Rotate who gets to be “Mother” so everyone gets a turn at power-tripping—err, leading.

So go ahead and give Mother May I? a whirl. It’s not just for keeping kids entertained; it’s also prime TikTok material. Just saying!

10. Most Likely To

Let’s talk about a game that’s all about using your imagination and getting to know your friends better. That’s right – Most Likely To. Picture this: you’re outside, the sun is shining, and you’re surrounded by your pals. No equipment needed, just a bunch of kids ready to have some fun.

How to Play Most Likely To

This game is perfect for large groups, making it an ideal choice for parties or gatherings. Here’s how you play:

1. Gather the Troops: Get everyone in a circle.
2. Choose a Leader: Someone starts as the leader and asks a Most Likely To question.
3. Pointing Fingers: On the count of three, everyone points to who they think fits the description best.
4. Laugh or Cry: Enjoy the reactions – from proud grins to playful protests.

This game not only entertains but also brings kids closer together, helping them understand different perspectives while having a blast. And just like that, you’re ready for some serious fun with Most Likely To.

Need fun questions for your next game night? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! The online version of Most Likely To is a great way to play with friends without the hassle of thinking up your questions for your next game.

Download the app for free and access over 2,000 questions you can use for your game night! If you don’t want to download the app, you can play it directly on our website.

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11. Obstacle Course

Ready to turn your backyard into a ninja warrior’s dream? Obstacle courses are the ultimate outdoor games for kids, and they don’t even need fancy gadgets to set up.

How to Set Up Your DIY Obstacle Course

You don’t need NASA-level equipment. Everyday items work just fine:

1. Cones: If you don’t have cones, use plastic bottles filled with water.
2. Ropes: Lay them down for balance beams or string them between trees as “lasers” to duck under.
3. Hula Hoops: Use them as “jumping stations” or for some epic hula hoop contests.

Pro Tips

• Mix It Up: Change the course layout every few rounds to keep things interesting.
• Timed Challenges: Use a stopwatch to see who completes the course fastest.
• Bonus Obstacles: Add bonus challenges like balancing a book on your head while hopping on one foot. Because why not?

So grab whatever you can find around the house and let those kids turn into mini Olympians for the day using these water games for kids!

12. Hula Hoops

Hula hoops—the original fidget spinners for your hips. Seriously, these plastic circles are not just for your grandma’s 1950s nostalgia trip. They’re a fantastic way to boost coordination and balance while soaking up some Vitamin D.

Game Ideas:

• Hoop Relay: Split into teams and race while passing the hula hoop over your body.
• Ring Toss: Use the hoops as targets for tossing small objects (or, you know, just try to throw them onto each other).
• Dance-Off: Combine hula hooping with some killer dance moves. Who’s got the best style?

So grab a hula hoop, step outside, and challenge your friends to see who’s got the best moves. Trust me, it’s way more fun than scrolling through TikTok for the hundredth time today!

13. Steal the Bacon

Steal the Bacon is a fast-paced outdoor game that promotes teamwork and quick thinking among kids. It’s basically an excuse to run around like maniacs while pretending there’s something important at stake.

This game is one of many learning-through-play outdoor activities that can enhance a child’s development.

How to Play Steal the Bacon

1. Setup: Split the kids into two teams and line them up on opposite sides of a playing field.
2. The ‘Bacon’: Place an object (the “bacon”) in the center of the field. This can be anything – a sock, a hat, your little brother’s favorite toy (just kidding, maybe not that).
3. Numbering: Assign each player on both teams a number.
4. Game Start: Call out a number, and the players with that number from each team must race to grab the bacon and get back to their side without being tagged by their opponent.

Tips for Playing Steal the Bacon

• Keep It Moving: Rotate who gets called to keep everyone engaged.
• Fake Outs: Encourage players to use feints and quick direction changes to outsmart their opponents.
• Safety First: Make sure the playing area is free of obstacles (no broken bones on your watch).

Steal the Bacon cranks up physical activity levels and helps improve children’s agility and coordination while ensuring they’re having a blast.

14. Jump Rope Games

Jump rope games are the unsung heroes of outdoor games for kids. Not only do they whip your coordination into shape but they also sneak in some fitness while everyone’s having a blast.

How to Play Jump Rope Games

• Single Rope: Perfect for those solo vibes when you just want to jump to your own rhythm.
• Double Dutch: Get two ropes swinging simultaneously. It’s like single rope on steroids—requires teamwork and rhythm, and let’s be honest, it looks super cool.

Tips for Playing Jump Rope Games

1. Keep it Competitive: Who can jump the longest? The fastest? Add some friendly competition to keep things spicy.
2. Switch Up the Rhymes: Go beyond “Cinderella dressed in yella” and make up your own catchy tunes.

Jumping rope isn’t just an exercise; it’s a full-blown carnival of fun that manages to sneak in physical activity and social interaction without anyone noticing they’re actually doing something good for themselves.

Looking for fun ways to enjoy the summer? Read this article for fun games to play in the pool!

15. Hot Potato

Ah, Hot Potato—the game that’s all about pretending a soft ball is the lava your living room floor once was. This classic outdoor game encourages kids to stay active and engaged while having a blast.

How to Play Hot Potato

1. Gather Players: Get a group of kids in a circle. The more, the merrier—and the more chaotic.
2. Choose Your “Potato”: It could be anything from a plush toy to an actual ball. Just make sure it’s something that won’t break Grandma’s vase.
3. Start Music: Play some tunes or have someone sing (pro tip: this person gets to laugh at everyone else scrambling).
4. Pass Quickly: Players pass the “potato” around as fast as they can until the music stops.
5. Elimination: Whoever is holding the potato when the music stops is out—or gets a silly dare, depending on how savage you’re feeling.

Hot Potato is one of those outdoor games for kids that never gets old. Pass it fast, laugh even faster, and try not to get stuck with it when the music cuts out!

16. SPUD!

Ah, the classic SPUD! game, where dodging skills and a slight sprinkle of chaos make for an epic playtime. This gem among outdoor games for kids is all about keeping those little legs moving and minds sharp.

How to Play SPUD!

1. Gather your squad in a circle and number them off.
2. One player starts as ‘It’ and throws the ball into the air while calling out a number.
3. The player with that number must catch the ball while everyone else runs like their lives depend on it.
4. Once caught, they yell “SPUD!” and everyone freezes. The catcher then takes three giant steps toward any other player and tries to hit them with the ball (gently, please).
5. If hit, that player gets a letter (S-P-U-D) and becomes ‘It’. If missed, the thrower becomes ‘It’.

This game is a versatile addition to any playtime routine, perfect for parks, backyards, or any space where running wild isn’t frowned upon. It’s a fantastic way to boost agility, coordination, and teamwork — plus, it’s just plain fun. For more exciting options like SPUD!, check out these 13 road trip games for kids.

FAQs about Outdoor Party Games for Kids

1. What are some easy outdoor games for kids that require minimal setup?

Many outdoor games for kids can be played with little to no equipment. Some examples include Tag, Duck, Duck, Goose, and Red Light, Green Light. These games encourage physical activity and can be set up quickly in any outdoor space.

2. How can I ensure the safety of children while playing outdoor games?

To ensure safety during outdoor games, establish clear boundaries for play areas, supervise children at all times, and choose age-appropriate games. Additionally, check the play area for hazards such as sharp objects or uneven ground before starting.

3. What age groups are suitable for different types of outdoor party games?

Most outdoor party games can be adapted for various age groups. For younger children (ages 4-7), simple games like Simon Says and Hide-and-Seek work well. For older children (ages 8-12), more complex games like Cops and Robbers or Obstacle Courses can be introduced.

4. What are some popular outdoor games for kids at parties?

Popular outdoor games for kids at parties include classic favorites like Tag, Duck, Duck, Goose, Hot Potato, and Obstacle Courses. These games promote teamwork and physical activity while keeping children engaged and entertained.

5. How can I incorporate educational elements into outdoor games?

You can incorporate educational elements into outdoor games by adding counting or rhyming activities to Jump Rope Games or using imaginative scenarios in Most Likely To. This not only enhances physical skills but also promotes cognitive development through fun interactions.

6. What is the importance of outdoor play for children?

Outdoor play is crucial for children’s development as it promotes physical fitness, coordination, and social skills. Engaging in outdoor activities allows kids to explore their environment, develop creativity, and learn teamwork while having fun with peers.