8 Fun Games to Play Outside with Minimal Equipment
We all know the importance of our kids being active outside; whether it’s to maintain physical health, boost their mood, decrease depression or anxiety, cultivate social relationships, stimulate creativity with ideas for activities, or just plain having fun. However, not every kid out there knows what to do that will keep them entertained or challenged for an extended period of time. Furthermore, not every kid necessarily has a garage full of sports equipment to choose from to play any game they want, nor can everyone afford to purchase all this equipment.
This blog will highlight 8 exciting games that are easy to play but challenging enough to keep kids having fun for hours and require very little pieces of equipment. Let’s see what we’ve got.
1. 35 (Basketball)
For those hoopers out there that love getting on the court and shooting around with friends but are tired of the same old classics that have been around for ages, this game is just what you’re looking for! This game is a basketball alternative to Horse or 21 as you and your friends shoot from four different valued scoring zones. Double the zone’s score with a swish. But don’t go over 35 or you’ll come crashing back down to a lower score.
2. Skyfall
Have you ever created a game with your friend out of sheer boredom? Well, this is that type of game! Quite possibly the simplest game ever created. All you need is a ball! Lay on your back as you look towards the clouds while waiting for your opponent to toss a ball that will test your reaction time as you try to catch it at the last second because you won’t see it coming. If the ball is dropped the players will race to throw at a target to secure another point.
3. 5 Cone Draw
Another game that requires very little equipment. All you need are some cones and a couple tennis balls. Test your accuracy and reaction time as both you and your opponent throw your ball after a countdown from three, just like an old western dual! Face off across a friend as you both aim for targets in the middle. Each cone’s value increases the less there are. Also score points by catching your opponents throw after it bounces. A sudden death playoff will settle any tie.
4. Roof Jam
This game reminds me of when my brother and I were kids and we were bored on the couch, so we went outside with a ball and start throwing it up on the roof to see what would happen. In this one, throw a ball onto a roof with the intention of it bouncing around and rolling back off. Test your opponents reaction time as they turn back around to find the ball. This game has a unique scoring system where both the catcher and thrower can score points and change roles often.
5. Catch This
This game is proof you can have fun outside with just a ball and a friend. This creative game will keep you entertained for hours. All you need is a football. Catch This is a simple throw and catch game, with many twists. Gameplay involves special throws, calling out the value of the catch and increasing the distance between the players as the game progresses.
6. Frisbee Race
If you’re looking to get in a little cardio while also competing against your friends in a fun new way to race, then this game is for you! Compete against others in this exciting, fast-paced game and customize your course so you keep it fresh and challenging every time. Run through your own designed course with a frisbee leading the way. Race against friends as you throw a frisbee through each gate on your way to the finish line.
7. Crazy Coins
Compete with friends outside in this interactive and educational game. Crazy Coins incorporates simple math into a sports competition. Get together with all of your friends to toss and flip coins onto a target. At the end of each round you will use addition and multiplication to generate each players score. Math has never been more fun!
8. Bubble Ball
All you will need for this one is some pavement, some chalk and a Four Square ball. This game has elements of the old playground classic, but this version is even better! Stay on your toes and use both your hands and feet to crush the competition. As opposed to Four Square, Bubble Ball is only played with three players. Protect your playing area from a double bounce or you will receive a point. You don’t want a point in this game because points are bad. Follow our scoring system to determine the winner.
Conclusion
As you can see, it doesn’t take a ton of equipment and resources to have fun outside. All it takes is a willingness to get out there with your friends and some creativity. At Back B4 Dinner, one of our passions is to create games for kids to play outside that are easily accessible by limiting the amount of equipment needed, but still keeping them fun and challenging. We challenge you to get outside and try these games! Play them the way we created them, or add your own twists! You can even add more friends to the mix for additional individual competition or turn some of these games into team competitions. Whatever you do, just get outside and play!
