Simple outdoor games require only basic items that most people have on hand. This allows you to play the games with kids any time without taking a long time to prepare. Outdoor games engage kids in an organized activity that is also enjoyable. Many simple outdoor games are easy to adapt, depending on the age and abilities of the kids participating.
Circle Ball Game
A soccer ball or similar-sized child's ball is the only piece of equipment needed for this group game. It works best with at least 10 children but can be played with more. One child stands in the middle as the remaining children form a circle around her. The kids in the circle hold hands. The child in the middle has the ball and tries to kick it out of the circle. The circle of kids try to stop the ball from getting past them. When the child in the middle successfully kicks the ball out of the circle, someone else is selected to go into the middle.
Beanbag Toss
Beanbags and hula hoops make up the supply list for this outdoor game. If you don't have beanbags, small rocks or toys may be used instead. Place the hula hoops on the ground, at varying distances. Assign point values to the hula hoops, based on how far away they are from the tossing line. For example, the closest hula hoop may be worth five points, while the hoop farthest away may be worth 50 points. The kids take turns tossing the beanbags, trying to land them inside the hula hoops. The points are calculated based on where the beanbags land.
Chalk Drawing Game
Sidewalk chalk allows kids to express their artistic talents outside. The simple material also works well for a picture drawing game. The kids take turns drawing an object. The other players guess what he is drawing. The person who guesses correctly gets a turn at drawing. If the kids have difficulty coming up with their own objects, make word cards to inspire ideas.
Ice Cube Melt
This outdoor game needs at least two players but also works with larger groups. Each child or group of kids needs an ice cube. The participants try to melt the ice cube completely, either by rubbing it with their hands or blowing on it. The kids try to melt it until it gets too cold, then they pass it to the next child in the group. For added interest, freeze a small toy into the ice cube. The first person to get her toy out of the ice is the winner.
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