When kids want to have fun outdoors, they don’t want to follow the rules and they don’t want to think too hard. They simply want to let loose! Kids love outdoor games that are easy to understand—they just want to dive right in and enjoy. Here are some easy to play outdoor games for kids:
Beanbag toss: Good aim is all that’s required in a friendly match of beanbag toss. Set up a few items around the yard and let the kids toss some beanbags with the goal of getting closest to the target. For older kids, a game of cornhole is a fun way to let kids practice their aim and enjoy some spirited competition.
Ring toss: All it takes are some rings and a few sticks in the ground for targets and you have a simple ring toss game. Kids of all ages enjoy this simple test of dexterity and aim. Plus, there are plenty of variations to play as the little ones get more accurate with their tosses.
Giant matching: A giant memory game is a fun way to get a kid’s brain working in some creative ways. Create a set of large cards with pictures but be sure that each picture has a match. Set out the cards in your yard and see how fast the kids can find all the pairs.
Tug-of-war: Kids love to show their physical strength and endurance, and there’s no simpler way than with a friendly tug-of-war battle. Make sure teams are evenly matched in terms of size and strength, and let each team dig in to pull the rope over to their side.
Tag and variants: Children always love a simple game of tag—it’s a great way to burn off some steam and have fun with friends. While everyone knows how to play regular tag, switch it up with a friendly game of freeze tag, where you’re stuck in place until a team member unfreezes you.
The key is that these are easy to play outdoor games for kids. If they have to think about the rules too much, they might not have as much fun. Instead, pull the ripcord on these simple games and let kids make their own fun.