As parents, caregivers, or gift-givers, we all know how important it is to encourage kids to get outside and stay active. With so many screens and indoor distractions, outdoor play has become more crucial than ever. Not only does it boost kids’ physical health, but it also helps develop social skills, teamwork, and creativity. Whether it’s a sunny day, a family gathering, or a birthday party, these 18 outdoor games will keep your kids moving, laughing, and entertained for hours. Plus, they make fantastic gift ideas—perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to encourage more outdoor playtime. Ready to bring the fun? Let’s dive into some of the best outdoor games that’ll keep kids active all day long.
1. Kickball
source @goombay_inc
Kickball is an all-time classic that combines the thrill of soccer with the structure of baseball, making it perfect for kids of all ages. It’s great for building teamwork, coordination, and cardiovascular health. You can play this game in your backyard or at the park, requiring minimal equipment: just a ball and bases. It’s ideal for larger groups, ensuring that no child is left out of the fun. If you’re looking for a fantastic gift, consider getting a kickball set, which usually includes a soft rubber ball and bases for easy setup. This set is perfect for outdoor play and makes for a memorable birthday gift.
2. Obstacle Course Challenge
source @rawchallenge
Creating an obstacle course is an exciting way to encourage kids to test their strength, agility, and problem-solving skills. You can design an obstacle course using everyday household items, such as chairs, ropes, and cones. It’s an activity that can be customized to fit your space and your child’s skill level. If you’re gifting it to a child, consider getting an obstacle course kit, which usually comes with items like balance beams, tunnels, and cones to make building the course even easier. It’s a perfect way to challenge your child to keep moving, while also allowing them to have fun and be creative in designing their own challenges.
3. Tug of War
source @campgrossman
Tug of War is a simple but highly effective game that promotes teamwork and strength. All you need is a sturdy rope, and you’re ready to go. The game encourages children to work together, while also helping them build their muscles and coordination. It’s a great game to play at family reunions, parties, or just in the backyard. To make it even more fun, you can create a tug of war set with a colorful, durable rope designed for outdoor play. It’s a great way to get kids moving and laughing, and it makes an excellent gift for any outdoor-loving child.
4. Frisbee Fun
source @kidsplayintl
Frisbee is a timeless outdoor game that improves hand-eye coordination and allows kids to get active without needing a lot of space. Whether it’s a casual toss in the yard or a more competitive game of Ultimate Frisbee, this game will keep them running and jumping. You can buy lightweight, aerodynamic frisbees designed for kids, making them easier to catch and throw. These are especially great for introducing kids to the world of flying discs. As a gift, consider getting a frisbee set, which may come with multiple discs and even targets for creating games.
5. Hide and Seek
source @imightbefunny1
One of the oldest and most beloved games in the world, Hide and Seek is always a hit with kids. It promotes physical activity through running and searching, while also helping children develop patience and observation skills. The best part? No equipment is needed! It’s perfect for the backyard, a park, or even inside when the weather isn’t cooperating. Hide and Seek is also great for large groups and is a fantastic icebreaker for parties. It’s a game that never gets old and offers endless opportunities for fun, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor activity rotation.
Gift Tip: No product needed! This game thrives on creativity and is sure to entertain children of all ages.
6. Relay Races
source @portmelbournelsc
Relay races are a fantastic way to get kids moving while teaching them about teamwork and competition. Whether it’s a simple race from one point to another or a more elaborate course involving various physical challenges, relay races are guaranteed to keep kids active and engaged. For safety and fun, you can set up a race course with markers or cones, making it easy for kids to understand the path. For a gift, consider a relay baton set, which can help organize races and make them more structured. This game is great for birthday parties and large family gatherings.
7. Badminton
source @shuttlecraftacademy
Badminton is an excellent game for improving hand-eye coordination, agility, and focus. It’s easy to learn and can be played in smaller backyards or larger open areas. The game involves hitting a lightweight shuttlecock back and forth over a net, making it a great way to keep kids active while having fun. If you’re gifting this activity, a portable badminton set is a great option, complete with rackets, a net, and shuttlecocks. It’s an ideal gift for kids who love outdoor activities and sports.
8. Water Balloon Toss
source @bunchoballoons
Perfect for hot summer days, a water balloon toss is a fun and refreshing way to stay active. This game is not only a blast to play but also great for improving hand-eye coordination and teamwork. Kids toss water balloons back and forth, trying to avoid popping them, and as the game progresses, they step farther apart, making it more challenging. To take it up a notch, you can buy a water balloon filler, which makes preparing and refilling balloons a breeze. It’s the ultimate gift for warm-weather fun and guarantees hours of active enjoyment.
9. Capture the Flag
source @haajrafareen
Capture the Flag is a classic game that is perfect for larger groups of kids. It encourages running, strategy, and team collaboration. The goal is to capture the opposing team’s flag while defending your own. It’s a game that requires speed, communication, and problem-solving skills. To make this game even more exciting, you can gift a set that includes glow-in-the-dark flags or markers for nighttime play. Capture the Flag is sure to keep kids entertained, whether they’re playing in the yard, at the park, or at a family get-together.
Gift Tip: No additional product is needed, but glow-in-the-dark flags are a fun upgrade for night play.
10. Jump Rope
source @poquosonschools
Jump rope is an incredibly versatile and effective activity for kids. Not only is it great for cardiovascular health, but it also improves coordination, balance, and endurance. It’s easy to play anywhere, whether in the driveway, the backyard, or even indoors. For an extra fun twist, you can gift adjustable jump ropes designed for kids. These ropes are lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for beginners or experienced jumpers. Jump rope is a fantastic way to encourage kids to be active, and it’s a gift that never goes out of style.
11. Tag (Freeze or Regular)
source @amazingelisa
Tag is another classic outdoor game that kids will always enjoy. It’s simple, fun, and promotes physical activity by encouraging running, dodging, and strategizing. Whether you’re playing freeze tag, where players have to freeze when tagged, or regular tag, this game will keep kids active for hours. It’s perfect for any outdoor space, and there’s no need for additional products. Just gather the kids and get ready for some high-energy fun.
Gift Tip: This game needs no special equipment but is always better with a large group of friends.
12. Kick the Can
source @ema.chilliwack
Kick the Can is a nostalgic game that combines the excitement of tag with the strategy of hide-and-seek. One player guards the can while others attempt to sneak up and kick it without getting tagged. This game is excellent for building teamwork, quick thinking, and problem-solving skills. You can even create a themed version for extra fun. For a modern twist, you could gift a reusable can or a can set designed for outdoor play, making the game even more enjoyable.
13. Dodgeball
source @kidsofsummernyc
Dodgeball is a high-energy game that improves reflexes, agility, and coordination. It’s a fantastic choice for larger groups, and it’s always a hit at birthday parties. The goal is to throw soft dodgeballs at the opposing team while avoiding being hit yourself. Soft dodgeballs designed for kids ensure safe play while still making the game exciting. A dodgeball set with soft balls is a great gift idea for kids who love competitive games.
14. Ring Toss
source @aashna_agarwal0201
Ring toss is a classic carnival game that’s easy to set up and fun to play. The objective is to toss rings onto pegs or hooks, aiming for accuracy and precision. It’s a great way to keep kids engaged while improving their focus and hand-eye coordination. A wooden ring toss set can be a wonderful gift, offering a classic outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
15. Scavenger Hunt
source @mrvissersclass
A scavenger hunt is an excellent way to get kids moving while also encouraging problem-solving and creativity. Create a list of items for the children to find around the yard or park, or give them clues to follow for added excitement. Scavenger hunts can be themed to fit holidays or birthdays, making them extra special. You can even create a gift box with scavenger hunt items to make it easier to organize the game.
16. Cornhole
source @gamesonwheelsgh
Cornhole is a popular game that combines relaxation with activity, requiring players to toss bean bags into a hole on a raised platform. It’s great for kids and adults alike and perfect for backyard fun or picnics. You can buy a kid-friendly cornhole set designed for smaller hands, making it an excellent gift for children. It’s an easy-to-learn game that keeps kids active and entertained for hours.
17. Kick the Soccer Ball
source @soccershotshouston
Soccer is a fantastic way to get kids moving while also improving their coordination, focus, and team-building skills. Kicking the ball around the yard or playing a game of mini soccer is a fun, active way to spend the day. A kid-friendly soccer ball is an excellent gift for aspiring soccer players. It’s lightweight and durable, perfect for young players to practice their skills.
18. Capture the Flag with Glow Sticks
source @stbensleduc
If you’re looking to take the excitement of Capture the Flag to the next level, consider playing it at night with glow-in-the-dark flags or glow sticks. This version of the game adds an element of suspense and adventure, making it perfect for evening play. Kids will love the challenge of finding the glowing flags while avoiding the opposing team’s searchlights.