Active games appeal to young children and teenagers alike. Games make it easier for small or large groups to interact without one or two children feeling left out. At parties, for example, shyer children might not join in the other children's conversations. Games help encourage everyone to participate and get to know each other in a fun, relaxed way.
The Blob
This silly variation on tag requires many players to work together as a collective "it" chasing other players. Select one player to start the game as the blob, or "it." That player chases other people and attempts to tag as many players as possible. Tagged players become part of the blob and must join hands with another blob member. Play until the blob has absorbed all but one player. That player becomes the blob in the next game.
Elbow Tag
In elbow tag, one player, "it," must chase one other player, the free player, while all other players remain still. The free player can change many times throughout the game. Designate one player as it and one player as free to start the game. The remaining players must form pairs and spread themselves out throughout the playing space to stand with their arms linked. When the game begins, the free player must run away from "it." The free player can give up her role and take shelter by linking arms with a standing pair. Then the player on the other side of the pair becomes free and must run away to avoid being tagged by "it." A tagged free player becomes the new "it."
Annie, Annie Over
Annie, Annie Over adds suspense to classic backyard games that include volleyball. Set up a large blanket or sheet over a clothesline to create a barrier between two teams. Divide the group into two teams and have the teams stand on either side of the barrier. Play with a beach ball, playground ball or volleyball. Whenever a team throws the ball over the barrier, it must yell "Annie, Annie Over" to warn the opposing team. If the opposing team can catch the ball before it lands, they can then sprint around the barrier and try to tag members of the opposing team. The opposing team must sprint around the barrier in the other direction to remain safe. Tagged players must join the opposing team. If a team lets the ball hit the ground before catching it, they must simply throw it back over the barrier with the warning "Annie, Annie Over." Play until one team has gained all the players.
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