Many games that are played in elementary schools, playgrounds, and birthday parties encourage competition. This is not necessarily a bad thing. However, young toddlers have very diverse abilities, and they become easily frustrated when measured up against someone else. These games have the added benefit of helping young children learn positive social skills.

Keep It Up

You can adapt this activity according to the number of participants by simply adding more balls. You can also use balloons for this activity, but be vigilant with popped balloon pieces because they can be a choking hazard.

• To start the game, have participants stand in a circle.

• Toss a few beach balls into the air.

• The object is to bat, kick, or tip the balls to keep them from touching the ground.

• When a ball hits the ground, it is removed from play. The game continues until all the balls are grounded.

Shrinking Island

This game can be played with children of all ages. It is best for outdoors as it requires a lot of space.

• You will need to define the boundaries of the island. You can use an old picnic blanket or sheet. Alternatively, you can set the boundaries with lengths of rope. Be sure that the area is large enough for all the players to comfortably stand.

• Have participants circle around the island without stepping inside. You may wish to play music. Tell the players that they are swimming in the sea and have them imitate swimming motions as they circle around the island.

• At the signal (music stops or verbal cue), the players must get out of the sea and go onto the dry land. Once everyone is safe, players can go back in the water.

• After each round, the island becomes smaller and smaller. To make it shrink, fold the edges of the sheet under, or move the ropes closer together. The goal is for players to work together to make sure that everyone can fit on the island.

Octopus Tag

Also called hug tag, this is a less competitive version of regular tag.

• Like traditional tag, one person starts out being “It” and tries to tag other players.

• When a player is caught, he joins arms with “It.”

• This ever-growing mass of children must stay connected and try to move as one to capture the next child.