Great Group Games Blog

When working with children, one of the most important things to remember is that group games are ultimately for the ENTIRE group- understanding the group’s interests and capabilities will help you choose the best game for your group. Each group is unique, and you’ll start noticing the trends by making a few simple observations.

Are the children constantly itching to go and run?  Do certain children prefer to draw or like circle games?  Are the kids saying that some games are too boring or hard for them to understand?  Picking up on these small signs will help you choose fun, entertaining games for kids. Here are some ideas that can help your group:

– For groups that are constantly fidgeting and wanting to play, you’ll want to choose a game that is focused on action like Everybody’s It, Snake In the Grass or Hospital Tag.

– If you’d like to restrain the boundaries and still have an active game, you can play some circle games like Fruit Salad or Where the Wind Blows.

– If you’d like to maintain authority throughout the game (and have that authority carried after the game is over), you can play Seagulls and Crows, Red Light Green Light or The Best Game.

– Groups of children of mixed ages can play circle games like Fruit Salad or Musical Chairs, which are generally easy to understand and are challenging for all ages.

Finally, your group’s age makes a huge difference in which type of games they’d like to play.  For example, 1st graders and dodgeball may not mix together very well- 1st graders may not be able to handle the pressure and physical nature of dodgeball at such a young age.  Dodgeball is better suited for 3rd graders or above, while 1st graders may enjoy playing cooperative games like Buzzing Bee.

Kids want to have fun together- and facilitating a game that best fits their interests and abilities will provide them an opportunity to have a great time.

~Stace