Standing Broad GrinHold a silling competition in which kids measure their smiles to see whose is the widest. While the kids tally up every eight of an inch, load up the camera... you won't want to miss this Kodak photo moment. The photos are great to send to the parents of each child, too!
Ready, Aim, FireThis is a throwing contest and players need a strong arm and an aim that is right on the money. To set the stage, use pieces of string or twine to hang a series of targets from a long tree branch or clothesline. Make your targets in a variety of shapes and sizes [...]
POP-a-BalloonTie a balloon around the ankle of each child and let the kids try to pop one another's balloons by stepping on them. The trick is to keep their own balloon from being popped by the other players.
Outrageous ObstaclesFor this game, two relays teams race through identical obstacle courses -- the first team that completes the race wins. (If a large number of kids want to play, you can run as many heats as you want.) The obstacle course at your party can be as wild as your imagination and resources permit, [...]
Hot PotatoChildren stand in a circle and pass around a raw potato until a whistle blows. The one holding the potato is the loser -- or the winner!
Let the children dance to a lively tape. When the music stops, players freeze, anyone still moving is out.
Crayon ColoringDistribute pages from coloring book, as well as paper cups containing a few crayons. Or spread out big pieces of paper and let the children create a mural.
Coin WalkGive each child a coin to put on the toe of one shoe. The opject is to walk a certain distance with the coin in place. Those who succeed keep the coin. (You can also use a hard candy.)
Animal GuessHave each child pretend to be an animal and the other kids guess which one.
Music-Makers TentHere, a magical, billowy tent sets the stage for dressing up and making music. Dolled up in play clothes, hats, and paper leis, kids can pound on drums, tootle on harmonicas, rattle maracas and tambourines, and dance the day away. To make the tent, fold a sheet lengthwise over a clothesline hung about 5 [...]