Whether games challenge their physical abilities, stimulate their minds, or promote social skills, kids benefit in many ways from group games. The KidsHealth website reminds parents that while most toddlers prefer to play games with parents or caregivers they know well, preschool age children are ready to play with other children and enjoy games with simple rules.
Animal Tails
KinderPlans.com recommends a group game called Animal Tails for little kids. For this game, children need a large area where they can run, as well as scarves or ribbons that will serve as tails. To play Animal Tails, help each child tuck his imaginary tail into the back of his pants or shorts. Now the children can pretend they are animals. Next the children run around and try to get the other children’s tails. As the kids collect tails, they are to place them in a pile. Children are not allowed to hold on to their own tails. The last child sporting a tail is the winner.
Duck, Duck ,Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is a classic game that has entertained little kids for generations. The children sit in a circle. Each child is a “duck” except for one who is chosen to be the “goose.” The “goose” runs around the circle tapping each child’s head and calling her a “duck.” The “goose” then chooses one person whom he wants to call a “goose.” The selected child jumps up and chases the original “goose” around the circle, trying to tag him until he gets to the empty seat. If she doesn’t tag the original “goose” before he sits down, she becomes the next “goose.” If she does tag the original “goose,” he sits in the center of the circle. According to KidsHealth, the game ends when all of the children are in the middle of the circle and one child is standing. She is the winner.
Parachute Tag
Children love playing games with colorful parachutes. KidsHealth lists developing gross motor skills and teamwork as two benefits of parachute games. Parachute Tag is one game recommended at PreschoolEducation.com The children stand in a circle, each holding one part of a parachute. They raise the parachute high above their heads to create a dome. The teacher or parent calls on one of the children. The goal is for that child to run under the parachute and come out the other side before the other children lower the parachute, tagging the child with it. Parachutes can be purchased at sporting good stores or some toy stores.
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