It’s spring in Columbus. And you know what that means…the kids will be begging for some quality outdoor time. The fresh air does wonders for their health and yours. And these outdoor games can turn that outdoor time into quality developmental time too!
Wondertime Magazine tested dozens of outdoor games with three sets of kids. Their mission: to find games that were rowdy enough but fun for everyone.
Here’s one of the Wondertime game suggestions that we really love!
1. Shark!
Put hula hoops or beach towels on the ground to serve as dens for all the “fish.” One child gets to be the shark. When the shark calls, “Fishie, fishie, cross my ocean,” the fish have to move to a different den. If, while out of a den, the shark tags them, they get to be sharks as well. The last remaining fish becomes the first shark next time. Adults can also remove dens, forcing kids to stand together on one.
Tip: For extra fun, the shark can tickle the fish.
Variations: The shark can be a T. rex, and the fish can be vegetarian brachiosaurs. Bird lovers can be hawks and mice. Construction buffs can be loaders and boulders, and so on.
Optimal age: 3 and up
Number of players: 4 or more
A parent observes“There’s nothing like a shark-empowered 4-year-old to keep three big kids huddled in a hula hoop.”
To read the rest of their suggestions, click here. Do you have any fantastic outdoor game ideas? Leave a comment and pass it on!
