What are some fun outdoor games to play like tag?

Answer 1

IntroductionGames that can be played by children outside are usually a requirement for all parties. If you don't have access to a backyard (or one that's big enough for everyone), you could think about trying to find a park close to where the party is, where you can take the party goers for at least some of the party. If you are doing this, you should ensure you have enough adults with you to supervise.

Great for parents tooOutdoor party games are enjoyed by children, but they are also very useful for the adults. Not only do they give the children a chance to use some of their couped-up energy, they let the children exercise and enable you to concentrate on the finishing touches (e.g. putting out the party food, setting the table and getting the cake ready).
Bad weather is no excuse if you've got the parents of the party goers to bring a change of clothes.

Dodge BallOne of my children's favorite outdoor party games is "Dodge Ball". This can be played the traditional way (dividing the group into teams and allowing them to throw sponge balls at each other) or by making one person the thrower (and whoever the thrower hits with a sponge ball replaces them as the thrower). You can vary this so that if someone is made a thrower a couple of times, they become a permanent thrower. Try to ensure you have sufficient balls made of sponge (about the size of a soccer ball); five should be enough.

Hide and seekNaturally, "Hide and Seek" has heaps more scope outside; however if you are in a park, you should tell the partygoers where the permitted playzone ends. Trampolines are an excellent addition to any outdoor party!

Scavenger HuntAnother great game is "Scavenger Hunt". This is straightforward to set up in your own backyard; if you choose to do so in a park or other public place, you may discover that a fair portion of the treats have been eaten by others!

Games with balloonsBalloon games are also great fun, whether it is using a water balloon to play "Dodge Ball" or "Tag" (better when it's summer!) or having a competition to see who can burst the most balloons.

Swimming pool gamesIf you can get access to a swimming pool (whether in your backyard or at the local pool), swimming games are an excellent idea. "Mermaid Girl" is where the children have to swim like mermaids and "Dry Hand" is where everyone takes turns to see who can swim to the other side and keep one of their hands dry. Obviously, these swimming games depend on the swimming abilities of the group.

Hula hoopsMy children love playing games with hula hoops! Games include "Hula Marathon" where the winner is the person who can keep the hula hoop spinning on their hips the longest and "Hula's Got Ya" where you have to catch people using the hula hoop; the list is as endless as your kids' imaginations!

It's up to you!Each of these games can be played in teams or by individuals, but it's always good to include a mix to ensure that everyone is involved and has a great time. Have fun!