Games Kids Like

Since I'm getting lots of experience teaching these days, I thought I'd share some games that kids (and adults) enjoy quite a bit in the gym (or outside, etc.)

Everybody It Tag. Just like the name would suggest, everyone is "it." If you get tagged, you sit down. If two of you tag each other at the same time, both of you sit down. The game ends when only one person is left. A better variation of this game (and a more inclusive one at that) is to have people stand with both hands in the air when they get tagged. If someone comes up and gives them a high ten, then they can rejoin the game. This usually doesn't end and can be quite fun.

Battleship. The object of this game is to get across the gym (or a similar sized area) without getting tagged. There are two ways you can get tagged. The first is by the three battleships in the playing area. These consist of children (or adults), who have foam balls. To tag someone, they must hit them below the shoulders with their foam ball. The only catch is that they can only throw their balls from hula hoops laid out on the floor. Once thrown, the battleships can retrieve their balls and throw again (if there is time). If someone is tagged they become seaweed and are stuck in place. The second way to get tagged is if one of the seaweed tags you as you run by. The game is played until one person is left and then a new round begins. I've seen some classes who can play this game for a 45min Phys Ed period and not want to change to a new game. A great way to keep kids active.

Next time I'm having difficulties thinking of something to post, I'll share more games that are fun.