In an era dominated by digital screens and virtual realities, the simple joys of outdoor play often take a back seat.
But who can forget the exhilaration of a perfectly aimed kick in a game of Kickball? Or the thrill of catching a soaring Frisbee at just the right moment?
If your older kids are itching for a break from their consoles, or if you’re keen to pry them away from their screens and get them into the great outdoors, you’re in the right spot.
We’ve launched kickballs, sent frisbees flying through the air, and sprinted across countless parks to curate this list of top-notch outdoor games for older kids.
So, let’s power down those devices, lace up those sneakers, and leap into an exciting world of physical fun, team spirit, and outdoor adventure!
Encouraging Kids to Embrace the Outdoors
In today’s digital age, getting kids to trade screen time for green time can be a challenge. However, with the right techniques, you can motivate your children to participate in outdoor games and cultivate a love for nature.
- Themed Games: Make outdoor play more exciting by incorporating themes that your kids are interested in. For instance, if they’re fans of Harry Potter, adapt a game of Frisbee to resemble a Quidditch match.
- Variety is Key: Rotate between different games to keep interest levels high. Playing the same game over and over can get repetitive, so introduce new games every now and then to keep things fresh.
- Active Participation: Don’t just stand on the sidelines; join in the fun! When parents engage in play, it not only makes the activity more enjoyable but also strengthens the bond with their children.
- Set Goals and Rewards: Establish achievable goals for each game and offer small incentives when they achieve these. The rewards do not have to be materialistic – they could be as simple as an extra half-hour of staying up late.
- Educate About Nature: Use outdoor play as an opportunity to teach your kids about the environment. This can stimulate their curiosity and make them more inclined to spend time outdoors.
Remember, the goal is to make outdoor play enjoyable and not a chore. Take it slow, be patient, and most importantly, ensure it’s a fun experience for your kids.
Outdoor Games for Older Kids
Now, it's time to explore a variety of outdoor games specifically tailored for older kids. There's something here to spark every child's interest.
Whether your child is competitive or prefers cooperative play, these games offer a balance of teamwork, strategy, skill, and most importantly, fun.
Let's dive in and explore the exciting world of outdoor games for older kids.
Looking for a fun and simple game the whole family can enjoy? Try our easy-to-learn ladder toss!
The set includes two sturdy target frames made of PVC pipes, along with three blue and three red bolas. Assembly is a breeze and the frames are lightweight for easy transportation.
Plus, you can store the set in the included carry case. Get ready for hours of interactive family fun with ladder toss!
Spikeball is an active and exciting game suitable for all skill levels.
The Spikeball Standard Kit provides everything needed for a great time, including a rule book!
Similar to volleyball, teams take turns spiking the ball back and forth, making it easy to pick up but challenging to master.
Perfect for beginners and experts alike, Spikeball can be played anywhere and is sure to provide hours of competitive fun.
Toss Across is a fun, easy game for kids of all ages. With a mix of skill and chance, each round brings unpredictable excitement.
So gather your family and get ready for some tossin' fun!
Are you up for a topsy-turvy horseshoe challenge? Swingin' Pole Horseshoes is a game of skill and strategy where players toss rubbery horseshoes to ring them onto a suspended pole and platforms.
Get a Sitter, a Ringer, or go for the big win with a Hanger. But watch out - the pole swings more with each toss, adding to the challenge!
Can you wrangle the most points and emerge victorious? It's time to find out!
Experience a splash-filled game of Twister outdoors with WowWee's all-new Twister Splash!
This game puts a refreshing twist on the classic version, as players follow hand and feet placements directed by the included spinner while getting drenched by water sprays on the colored spots.
With easy setup, this game promises loads of fun in your own backyard!
Our kid-friendly ball toss game set is built to last with reinforced waterproof lining and bright blue paddles.
It improves hand-eye coordination and comes with a storage bag for easy transport to picnics, camping trips, and beach days.
Get outside and play with your kids!
Play the retro board game SORRY! on a large vinyl mat with giant pawns for a bigger and better experience.
Enjoy the classic game in a new and exciting way.
The versatile Giant Timber set is perfect for all ages, making it the ultimate family activity.
Its customizable features include a scoreboard, marker pen, and dice, allowing for endless variations of gameplay.
Plus, it's easy to set up and play, making it perfect for backyard fun with friends and family.
Don't miss out on the fun - get your Giant Timber set today!
Engage youth and teens with Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag kit, featuring 25 light-up game pieces and 12+ hour batteries.
With 12 game variations, players form strategies to win as a team while being physically active and socially interactive.
Perfect for outdoor parties, backyard games, and camping fun. Get excited to play!
Introducing our latest kids' archery set with LED bow bodies, 14 large suction arrows, and a glowing target for dark play.
Easy to assemble and use on various surfaces. Bring out your child's inner archer!
The original Foxtail has a baseball on the front and is played by spinning to throw and catch by the tail.
The three color tail has a game where catching the red scores the most points.
You'll be amazed at how far you can throw and how much fun it is to catch! Try it out and see for yourself!
The Obstacle Course in a Box is a fun and physically challenging activity for kids, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
With various games and challenges, kids can compete against the clock or friends for pure enjoyment.
It's an excellent way to improve a child's physical fitness and coordination skills while having fun.
Experience a thrilling laser tag game with a LED glow vest, intense obstacles, and high-tech weaponry. Immerse yourself in a world of energy and excitement, while strategically navigating your way through a futuristic battlefield.
This fast-paced, adrenaline-filled activity is perfect for groups and individuals of all ages.
Upgrade your outdoor basketball experience with our shatterproof 44’’ backboard hoop!
The shock-absorbing bumper reduces impact force during intense games, while the Q195 thick steel support rod ensures long-lasting use in any weather.
Play with peace of mind and reach your full potential on the court!
Introducing the Giant Kick Darts, an inflatable outdoor dartboard standing over 6ft tall with 15 different games to play! It comes with soccer balls, an air pump, and a scorecard to keep track of your wins.
This jumbo foot darts game is perfect for parties, BBQs, and family gatherings. Get your aim ready and let the fun begin!
Outdoor games offer a wealth of benefits that go beyond mere physical activity. They provide a platform for older kids to explore their abilities, engage with peers, and connect with the natural world around them. Each game serves as an opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun.
As parents, facilitating these experiences can be rewarding. Seeing your child embrace the outdoors, engage in healthy competition, and form lasting memories is truly special. Remember, the key is to keep the activities enjoyable and varied, and to occasionally join in the fun yourself.
So, whether it’s a sunny weekend or a casual after-school evening, encourage your kids to step outside and play. The adventure that awaits is bound to be exciting, enriching, and full of laughter.
