Kids Outdoor Party Games

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Planning an event for children often means coming up with kids outdoor party games. Whether it is sunny and warm or chilly and breezy, kids love to get outside in the fresh air.

Party games for kids

Choose Games for Kids

Picking out the right game for a childrens party is essential to making the game work successfully. Consider the following questions when compiling a list of children’s party games:

  • How old are the children? Fun teenage party games are usually not appropriate for toddlers or preschoolers.
  • Is the party for only boys, only girls or co-ed? Choose gender-neutral games in order to avoid a conflict, regardless of who is attending.
  • What games do I have supplies for at my home, without purchasing equipment? Purchasing equipment can make the party budget spin out of control, while asking kids to bring their own could make some feel left out if they do not have the right gear.
  • Does my child have any favorite games? Picking games that the guest of honor likes makes them winners, as the child’s friends usually play the same games.
  • How much supervision/refereeing is needed in the game? If a game involves strict rules, ask several adults or older teens to help with the party.

Avoid picking games that could potentially embarrass the children involved. Pass on games that could ruin clothing or are likely to cause injury, such as contact football.

Suggestions for Kids Outdoor Party Games

Games kids can play outside are numerous. Even when it is chilly, children can put on hats and gloves to keep warm for one 15-minute game.

Group Games

Group games are best for large parties and most elementary-aged children. Playground and gym class games are usually familiar to kids this age, making them great choices. Consider these games:

  • Red Light, Green Light
  • Red Rover
  • Capture the Flag
  • Frisbee Golf
  • Kickball

Variations on tag are also perfect games for large groups of children. For example, flashlight tag could be an outdoor slumber party game in the summer. Freeze tag is perfect for a chilly afternoon in late fall or early winter, before the snow begins falling.

Individual Contests

Tweens may enjoy party games with a clear winner. Contests are a good way to let older kids show off their athletic prowess while maintaining a fun atmosphere. Set up an outdoor challenge game that resembles an obstacle course. Time each kid as s/he completes the course; the person with the fastest time is the winner. Make it into a group game by turning it into a relay race.

Choose games that fit into the party theme. Limbo and hula-hoop contests are perfect luau party games. A sports-themed party could include a throwing contest, using baseballs, footballs and basketballs.

Outdoor Game Party Planning

Planning outdoor games requires some special planning when compared to indoor party games. Children will need to know exactly where the boundary lines for various games lie. Makeshift fencing, using brightly colored rope, can help them decipher boundaries.

Follow these tips to make sure all the bases are covered when it comes to outdoor game party planning:

  • Add a few lines to the invitation so parents know that kids should dress in outdoor play clothes and bring appropriate outerwear.
  • Plan on each game taking about 20 minutes and play no more than three games. However, have at least two back-up games in case the first few end quickly or children seem bored.
  • Set a timer for games that may not end with a clear winner within the allotted timeframe and tell children about it up front.
  • Have a few prizes available for game and contest winners, but give every child who attended a kids party favor.
  • Plan one or two games for the beginning of the party as ice breakers and save one for the end, while children wait to be picked up by their parents.

Kids outdoor party games are perfect for keeping children entertained and burn endless energy. Parents who plan games should plan to supervise the kids themselves or ask a trusted friend or neighbor to help out.



 


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