Water Games for Kids

Looking for exciting ways to keep your kids entertained and cool this summer? Discover a fun collection of water games that will bring endless fun and laughter to any outdoor gathering. Whether planning a backyard party or a playdate, these water games for kids are perfect in the summer!

✍️ August 21, 2024

16 Fun Water Games for Kids to Beat the Heat This Summer

📖 Show Table of Contents 👻 Hide Table of Contents

🚰 1. Water Bucket Race
💦 2. Water Balloon Activities
🧽 3. Sponge Ball Fun
🤸‍♀️ 4. Trampoline Splash
🤾‍♀️ 5. Jumping Rope with Water
🦶 6. Kiddie Pool Toe Diving
🥤 7. Passing the Cup
🏃‍♀️ 8. Water Balloon Relay
🛝 9. DIY Slip ’n Slide
🚿 10. Human Car Wash
🎯 11. Water Toss Relay
🔍 12. Ice Mold Excavation
🌊 13. Sprinkler Games
⚾ 14. Water Balloon Baseball
🧽 15. Sponge Toss Game
🏴‍☠️ 16. Treasure Hunt

Summer is the perfect time to cool off and have some fun with water games for kids. As the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a splash of water. Not only do these games provide a refreshing escape from the heat, but they also encourage outdoor water play and family water activities that everyone can enjoy.

From classic water balloon games to creative DIY water play activities for kids, this article will introduce you to 15 fun and engaging water games that are ideal for kids looking to beat the heat this summer. Whether you’re planning a summer birthday party or just want to keep the kids entertained, these cooling off games for summer will make your summer unforgettable with laughter, teamwork, and plenty of splashes!

👉 If you’re looking for more fun games for kids, check out: 7+ Best Party Games For Kids To Play - Fun & Simple Games!

1. Water Bucket Race

The Water Bucket Brigade is an exciting game that combines speed, teamwork, and a splash of fun! This activity is perfect for groups and can be easily set up in your backyard or at the park, making it one of the best outdoor water games for kids.

How to Play Water Bucket Brigade

This fun game not only cools everyone down but also fosters team-building skills among kids, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play:

Materials Needed:

Two buckets (one for each team)
A water source (like a hose or a large container filled with water)
Sponges or small cups (optional for variations)

Setup:

Choose Teams: Divide the players into two teams of equal size.
Position the Buckets: Place one empty bucket at the starting line for each team and fill the other bucket with water at a distance (about 15-20 feet away).
Mark the Starting Line: Ensure all players start from the same designated area.

How to Play:

Fill the Buckets: When the game begins, players must run to the full bucket, soak their sponge or cup in water, and race back to their team’s empty bucket.
Pour It In: Players then squeeze or pour the water into their team’s empty bucket.
Repeat: Each player continues to take turns running back and forth until one team fills their bucket completely or until a set time limit is reached.
Winning: The team that fills their bucket first wins!

This game is not just about winning; it’s about enjoying time together while engaging in one of the most fun water relay races for kids! Enjoy your day filled with laughter and splashes!

2. Water Balloon Activities

Water balloon games are a blast, perfect for cooling off while having fun! Whether you’re organizing a water balloon game at a birthday party or just a regular summer day, these activities are sure to be a hit. Here are some exciting water balloon activities to try:

Water Balloon Toss

Objective: Teams toss a water balloon back and forth, taking a step back after each successful catch.

Instructions:

Start with players standing close together. Gather your friends or family in a circle, ensuring everyone has a clear view of each other to make catching easier.
Fill the water balloons. Prepare several water balloons filled with water so you have enough for multiple rounds and to account for any that might break.
Begin the Toss. One player starts by tossing the water balloon to the teammate directly across from them.
Step Back After Each Catch. If the balloon is caught successfully, both players take a step back to increase the distance between them.
Continue Tossing. Repeat the process of tossing and stepping back after each successful catch.
Keep it Going! The game continues until the balloon breaks. The last team with an unbroken balloon wins!

This classic game is not only fun but also one of the best water games for kids, promoting teamwork and coordination while keeping everyone cool during those hot summer days!

Need games for the beach? Check out this list of Beach Games for Adults for more fun ideas!

Water Balloon Dodgeball

Objective: A classic game of dodgeball, but with water balloons!

Instructions:

Divide players into two teams. Ensure each team has an equal number of players to maintain balance and fairness.
Set up the playing area. Mark boundaries for each team’s side using cones or lines on the ground, ensuring there is enough space for players to move around safely.
Prepare water balloons. Fill a variety of water balloons with water and place them in a central location accessible to both teams. Make sure you have plenty to last through several rounds!
Each team takes their own side. Players should start behind their designated boundary line, ready to dodge or throw water balloons at the opposing team.
Start the game! On a signal, players rush towards the center to grab water balloons while trying to avoid getting hit by the other team’s throws.
Aim and throw! Players attempt to hit opponents with the water balloons while avoiding being hit themselves.
Out until next round. If a player is hit by a water balloon, they are out for that round and must wait until the next game begins.
Continue until one team remains! Keep playing rounds until one team gets all the opposing players out.

Variations to Keep it Fresh

Water Balloon Piñata: Hang water balloons from a tree or structure and let kids take turns trying to burst them using a stick. This variation adds an element of surprise and is perfect for a water game at a birthday party.
Treasure Hunt: Hide filled water balloons around the yard and send kids on a scavenger hunt to find them all. This game combines the excitement of a water balloon game with the thrill of a treasure hunt, making it a favorite among children.

These games not only encourage physical activity but also foster teamwork and laughter among kids, making them some of the best water games for kids during summer. So, gather your supplies, and let the splashing begin!

3. Sponge Ball Fun

How to Play Sponge Ball Fun

Sponge ball fun is a fantastic way for kids to enjoy water games during the summer while promoting teamwork and coordination. Follow this step-by-step guide to set up and play:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Soft, absorbent sponges (preferably in various colors)
Buckets or hula hoops for targets
A large container filled with water for soaking the sponges

Step 2: Set Up the Playing Area

Designate a spacious outdoor area free from hazards.
Set up buckets or hula hoops at varying distances to create targets for the sponge toss game.

Step 3: Choose Your Game Variations

You can choose between different game formats:

Sponge Toss Game: Players take turns tossing soaked sponges at targets, aiming for points based on accuracy.
Sponge Relay Race: Divide players into teams. Each player must pass a wet sponge overhead to the next teammate, racing to fill a bucket at the end of the line.

Step 4: Establish Rules

For the sponge toss game, determine how many throws each player gets and how points will be awarded.
In the relay race, set rules on how players can pass the sponge and what happens if it drops.

Step 5: Start Playing!

Begin with the sponge toss game, allowing everyone a turn before rotating.
Next, conduct the sponge relay race, keeping track of teams’ times or points for added competition.

Fun Variations:

Add obstacles for players to navigate while holding their sponge.
Use different colors of sponges to create a scoring system or themed games.

These sponge activities not only provide refreshing fun but also encourage teamwork and laughter among kids, making them some of the best water games for kids during summer!

4. Trampoline Splash

Who says you need a pool to have a splash of fun? Turn your trampoline into a water wonderland with this exciting game. Here’s how to do it:

How to Play Trampoline Splash

Trampoline splash is one of the most exciting water games for kids, combining the thrill of bouncing with refreshing splashes. Follow these steps to set up and enjoy this fun activity:

1. Trampoline Placement

Position a trampoline securely over a kiddie pool. Ensure the trampoline is stable and anchored to prevent accidents.

2. Safety First

Use a safety net around the trampoline to keep jumpers contained. Always supervise children while they play.

3. Prepare the Kiddie Pool

Fill the kiddie pool with water and consider adding some fun elements like water balloons or colorful inflatable toys for added excitement.

4. Maximize the Fun

Water Balloons Galore: Fill the kiddie pool with water balloons for extra excitement. Jumpers can launch balloons at each other while bouncing.
Soaking Surprises: Add some colorful inflatable toys in the pool to create a surprise element as kids jump in.

5. Start Jumping!

Have kids take turns jumping onto the trampoline and landing in the kiddie pool. Encourage them to perform tricks or simply enjoy splashing around.

This combination guarantees laughter, splashes, and unforgettable summer memories!

5. Jumping Rope with Water

Jumping rope is a classic activity that gets kids moving while having fun in the sun. To play this exciting game, each participant holds a cup filled with water while jumping rope. The objective? Keep the cup steady and spill as little water as possible!

How to Play Effectively

Setup: Gather a sturdy jump rope and cups for each player. Fill the cups with an appropriate amount of water—too much can lead to spills, while too little makes it less challenging.
Gameplay: Players take turns jumping rope, aiming to keep the water inside their cup. The one who spills the least amount after a set time wins.

Suggestions for Friendly Competition

Time Trials: Set a timer for everyone and see who can jump the longest without spilling.
Team Challenges: Form teams where players pass their cups to teammates after each jump, promoting teamwork and strategy.

Jumping Rope with Water is not just about staying dry; it’s about laughter, excitement, and improving skills—all perfect ingredients for outdoor games! This activity serves as a fantastic addition to your lineup of water games for kids during summer!

6. Kiddie Pool Toe Diving

Kiddie pool activities can be a fantastic way to keep kids engaged and cool during the summer months. One such activity, Toe Diving, is a fun and slightly challenging game that will delight kids of all ages.

How to Play Kiddie Pool Toe Diving

Kiddie Pool Toe Diving is a delightful water game for kids that combines fun, teamwork, and a bit of friendly competition. Here’s how to set up and play this exciting game:

Materials Needed:

Kiddie pool
Small items (toy animals, ping-pong balls, colorful plastic cups)
Timer (optional)

Step 1: Set Up the Kiddie Pool

Begin by filling the kiddie pool with water, ensuring it’s deep enough for the kids to use their toes to dive in and retrieve items. Next, toss in a variety of small items that can float or sink slightly, like toy figures or small balls. This simple setup makes it one of the easiest yet most engaging DIY water games you can try at home.

Step 2: Explain the Objective

Now that the pool is ready, explain the game’s objective to the players. The goal is simple: using only their toes, players must retrieve as many items as they can from the kiddie pool within a set time limit.

Step 3: Gather the Players

Invite friends or family members to join in on the fun. You can create teams for a more competitive edge, which adds to the excitement and makes it a standout among team water challenges.

Step 4: Start the Game

Once everyone is ready, set a timer for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 2 minutes). When the timer starts, players begin toe diving into the kiddie pool to collect items using only their feet. This makes the game a fun and active way to engage in cooling off games for summer.

Step 5: Count the Treasures

After time is up, gather everyone together and count how many items each player or team has retrieved. This step adds an element of anticipation and excitement, making it one of the best water games for kids to enjoy during a summer day.

Step 6: Celebrate and Reward

Finally, celebrate the winners by offering small prizes or simply basking in the joy of playful competition. Whether it’s a special treat or just the satisfaction of winning, this moment will cap off the fun in a memorable way.

Tips:

To make the activity even more enjoyable:

Create teams for friendly competition.
Use a timer to see who can collect the most items.
Allow younger kids to get creative by decorating their retrieved treasures with markers or stickers.

This game not only promotes balance and coordination but also keeps everyone giggling and splashing around. It’s perfect for summer activities and ensures that kids stay engaged and active during those warm days.

7. Passing the Cup

This fun water game is a fantastic option among team-building games for kids and promises loads of laughter! It’s ideal for both small gatherings and larger events, adding a refreshing twist to any outdoor play.

👉 Check out this article for more simple games you can play with kids: 10 Minute To Win It Games For Kids To Try At Your Party

How to Play:

Materials Needed:

Plastic cups
Buckets

Setup:

Divide the players into two teams.
Line up each team in a row, facing the opposite direction.
Place a bucket at the end of each line.

Game Mechanics:

Start by filling each player’s cup with water.
Players must then pass their cup over their heads to the person behind them without spilling.
The last person in line pours the water into their team’s bucket.
The first team to fill their bucket wins!

Teamwork Strategies:

To ensure success in this game:

Encourage communication: Players should call out when they’re ready to receive the cup.
Promote cooperation: Remind everyone to assist teammates if spills occur.

This game not only cools off participants but also enhances teamwork skills, all while providing a blast of fun in the sun!

8. Water Balloon Relay

Get ready for some splash-tastic fun with the Water Balloon Relay! This game combines the thrill of relay races with the excitement of water balloon games, making it a perfect addition to your lineup of summer water games.

Setup Requirements

Materials Needed:

A large number of water balloons (the more, the merrier!)
Buckets or containers for each team
A defined start and finish line

Game Structure:

Divide players into two or more teams.
Each team lines up behind the starting line, holding a water balloon.
At the signal, the first player races to the finish line while balancing their balloon.
Upon reaching the finish line, they pass the balloon to the next teammate without breaking it.

Detailed Rules:

If a player drops or breaks their balloon, they must return to the start line and begin again.
The team that successfully passes all their balloons without breaking any wins!

This game is a fantastic way to promote teamwork and coordination while keeping everyone cool. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to add more fun water games for children to their summer playbook.

9. DIY Slip ’n Slide

Creating a DIY slip ’n slide at home guarantees a splashing good time! This activity is simple, requires minimal materials, and offers endless fun, making it one of the best outdoor water games for kids.

Instructions:

Choose a Location: First, find a flat, grassy area that’s free of sharp objects to ensure safety.
Materials Needed:

A large plastic tarp (around 10-20 feet long)
Garden hose
Dish soap or baby shampoo (to enhance the slip)
Water

Set Up:

Lay the tarp flat on the ground, securing it with stakes or heavy objects to prevent slipping.
Attach the garden hose at one end and turn on the water.
Add a squirt of dish soap along the length of the tarp for extra slickness.

Safety Tips:

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

Make sure the area is clear of debris to avoid injuries.
Supervise children while they play.
Consider using pool noodles or soft padding at the end to create a safe stopping point.

This fun twist on a classic summer activity keeps kids entertained while promoting active play outdoors. It’s an essential addition to any summer day spent in the sun.

10. Human Car Wash

Transform your backyard into a fun-filled human car wash! This vibrant game combines laughter, teamwork, and plenty of water. Setting it up is easy:

1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need:

A few sprinklers (adjustable ones work best)
Water hoses
A large tarp or plastic sheet for the “car wash” floor
Optional: colorful sponges or buckets for extra fun

2. Setup Instructions:

Arrange the sprinklers in a line to create a “car wash” effect.
Place the tarp on the ground to give players a slippery surface.
Turn on the sprinklers and let the fun begin!

Engaging in this activity promotes physical fitness as kids run through the sprinklers, dodging sprays while laughing together. The human car wash not only keeps everyone cool but also encourages social interaction. It’s perfect for those hot days, ensuring endless joy with every splash!

11. Water Toss Relay

Gather your friends for an exciting water toss relay game! This activity not only keeps everyone cool but also encourages teamwork and coordination. Here’s how to set it up:

Materials Needed:

Two buckets per team (one filled with water, one empty)
Cups (plastic or biodegradable)

Game Rules:

Divide players into two teams.
Place a filled bucket at the start line and an empty one at the finish line.
Each player fills their cup from the filled bucket and races to pour the water into the empty bucket.
The next player can only go once their teammate returns.

Tips for a Competitive Edge:

Set a time limit to increase urgency.
Add obstacles for players to navigate around while carrying water.
Encourage creative strategies, like how to pass the cup.

This game is not just about speed; it’s about teamwork and communication, making it one of the best team-building activities for summer fun!

12. Ice Mold Excavation

Prepare for an exciting blend of fun and learning with Ice Mold Excavation, one of the most engaging educational water games for kids! This activity combines playtime with science, making it a hit during hot summer days.

How to Set It Up:

Materials Needed: Small toys (like dinosaurs, sea creatures, or action figures), large containers or ice cube trays, and warm water.
Freezing Process: Place the toys in the containers, fill them with water, and freeze overnight. The next day, you’ll have solid blocks of ice encasing the toys!

Gameplay Instructions:

Excavation Challenge: Kids use warm water to melt the ice and free their hidden treasures.
Tools for Fun: Provide spoons, squirt bottles, or even small buckets to help them excavate.
Keep the Fun Going: Encourage children to race against each other to see who can free their toys first.

This activity is perfect for hot summer days and encourages problem-solving skills and patience while keeping kids engaged in a fun and educational experience. Ice Mold Excavation is not just a game; it’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about temperature changes and states of matter while playing!

13. Sprinkler Games

**Classic sprinkler games are a fantastic way to cool down while having tons of fun. **Additionally, these games can easily be adapted to fit any backyard or park setting, making them perfect for summer gatherings. Here are some exciting ideas:

How to play Sprinkler Games

Sprinkler games are an excellent way to combine fun and water play for kids during the hot summer months. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to enjoy these exciting activities.

1. Prepare Your Sprinklers

Set up your sprinklers in the yard, ensuring they cover a wide area for maximum fun.

2. Choose Your Game Type

You can select from a variety of games that incorporate the water element beautifully:

Tag with a Twist

Start a classic game of tag: One person is chosen to be “it” while others scatter.
Chase and dodge: The person who is “it” must chase others while dodging the water spray from the sprinklers.
Amp up the excitement: Getting wet adds an extra layer of excitement and laughter!

Freeze Dance Fun

Play your favorite music: As everyone runs through the sprinklers, let the music fill the air.
Stop the music unexpectedly: When this happens, everyone must freeze in place.
Add a fun twist: Anyone caught moving gets sprayed by the sprinklers!

These games not only encourage movement but also engage kids in rhythm and coordination. Thus, sprinkler games serve as fantastic water games for kids, promoting active play while keeping them cool in the summer heat.

3. Safety First

Before starting, ensure that all children understand the boundaries of play and follow safety guidelines to have a blast without any accidents.

Now that you’re equipped with a step-by-step guide, gather your family and friends for some unforgettable sprinkler games!

👉 Here are more games you can play with your family: 5 Classic Card Games for Kids to Enjoy with the Family

14. Water Balloon Baseball

Get ready to hit some home runs with a twist! The water balloon baseball game takes the classic sport and adds a splash of fun. Here’s how to set it up:

Materials Needed:

Water balloons (lots of them!)
A bat (a plastic or foam one works best)
Bases (you can use towels, cones, or any markers)

Game Setup:

Designate a field with bases spaced out like in regular baseball.
Fill a bunch of water balloons and place them in a bucket near the batting area.

How to Play:

The batter stands at home plate and attempts to hit a water balloon pitched by the pitcher.
If the batter hits it, they run around the bases while others try to catch the burst balloon’s water.

Scoring System:

Players score points by successfully reaching home plate before getting soaked.
Each player gets a turn to bat; whoever scores the most wins!

This game not only keeps everyone cool but also promotes teamwork and laughter, making it an ideal summer activity.

15. Sponge Toss Game

Sponge toss fun is a fantastic way to cool off while improving your hand-eye coordination. This activity is easy to set up and provides endless entertainment for kids.

How to Play Sponge Toss Game

Sponge toss is one of the most engaging water games for kids, providing not only fun but also a great way to cool off during hot summer days. Here’s how to set it up and play:

1. Gather Materials Needed:

Soft sponges (cut into strips or small squares)
Buckets or containers for targets

2. Create a Designated Toss Area:

Use markers to establish distances where players will stand to toss their sponges.

3. Set Up Buckets as Targets:

Position buckets at various distances, ensuring some are closer and others farther away for added challenge.

4. Take Turns Tossing Sponges:

Each player takes their turn tossing sponges into the buckets from the designated area.

5. Score Points:

Each successful toss earns points based on the distance of the bucket; farther buckets yield more points.

16. Treasure Hunt

A treasure hunt is a classic game that can be adapted to any outdoor setting, making it perfect for summer parties or family gatherings.

How to Play Treasure Hunt:

1. Prepare clues:

Write a series of clues that lead players from one location to another, ultimately leading them to the “treasure” or prize.

2. Hide the clues:

Hide each clue at the designated locations, making sure they are challenging but not impossible to find.

3. Start the hunt:

Divide players into teams or let them play individually. Hand out the first clue and let the adventure begin!

4. Solve the clues:

Players must work together or individually to solve each clue, leading them to the next location.

5. Find the treasure:

The final clue should lead players to the treasure, whether it’s a small prize, treats, or simply a sense of accomplishment.

Summer is the perfect time for kids to enjoy fun water games that provide both entertainment and exercise. With 15 exciting options highlighted, there’s no shortage of ways to beat the heat this summer. So gather your friends, grab some water toys, and let’s have the best summer of your lives!

FAQs about Water Games for Kids

1. What are the benefits of water games for kids during summer?

Water games provide a fun way for kids to not only stay active but also cool off, while developing social skills. Moreover, they encourage outdoor play and teamwork, making them an essential part of summer activities.

2. What materials do I need for the Water Bucket Race?

For the Water Bucket Race, you will need buckets, sponges, and a designated playing area. In addition, ensure that you have enough buckets for each team and sponges to transfer water between them.

3. How can I make water balloon activities more exciting?

You can keep water balloon activities fresh by introducing variations such as water balloon toss challenges or dodgeball. Furthermore, changing the rules or adding obstacles can also enhance the fun!

4. What safety precautions should I consider for trampoline splash activities?

When setting up a trampoline above a kiddie pool, it is crucial to ensure that the trampoline is securely positioned and that there are no sharp edges nearby. Additionally, always supervise children during play to prevent accidents.

5. How do you play the Water Balloon Relay?

In the Water Balloon Relay, teams race to pass a water balloon from one player to another without breaking it. Therefore, establish clear rules for passing and set up a course to enhance coordination and teamwork.

6. What is involved in creating a DIY Slip ’n Slide?

To create a DIY Slip ’n Slide, you will need a large plastic sheet, water, and some soap for extra slickness. First, set it up on a flat surface, ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent slips and falls.