100 Fun Backyard Activities Your Kids Will Love (2024)

Are you tired of hearing the same old chorus of “I’m bored” from your kids?

Backyard games are a great way to bond as a family and stay active at the same time, without ever having to leave your home.

But sometimes it’s difficult to think of them all on your own.

That’s why I put together this handy post of 100 fun backyard activities your kids will love.

I’ve been a camp counselor, school teacher, and parents for over 20 years, and I curated this list from years of hands-on experience.

This epic list will turn your outdoor space into a hub of excitement and adventure, providing hours of play for all ages.

From classic outdoor games like tag and hide-and-seek to creative DIY projects and obstacle courses, there’s backyard ideas for kids of all ages and interests in this blog post.

(And yes, mud pies made the list.)

So, put away the screens, break out the ice pops, and get ready to breath in some fresh air.

Let’s dive into some backyard fun!

Note: These fun outdoor activities are just one section of our epic list of 100 Fun Things To Do At Home With Kids >>

Scroll to the bottom for your FREE printable of great ideas to hang on your refrigerator when you need some inspiration.

Disclosure: For your convenience, we’ve included some affiliate links below.

Classic Games

1. Hide & Seek

This classic game is a sure-fire hit. Even older kids will love it!

Here’s how to play:

One player is chosen to be the seeker, and the other players are the hiders. Choose a base that will be the “safe zone” for the hiders to run to when they are found.

The seeker counts to a predetermined number (usually 10 or 20) with their eyes closed, while the other players hide.

After counting, the seeker announces “ready or not, here I come!” and starts looking for the hiders. The seeker must find all the hiders and tag them before they reach the base. The hiders can move around and try to avoid being tagged.

The first hider who is tagged becomes the seeker for the next round, and the game starts again.

2. Red Light Green Light

Red Light Green Light is a fun game that is extremely easy to play and requires no equipment. It’s especially appropriate for younger kids. Here’s how to play:

One player is chosen to be the leader, and the other players stand in a line behind them.

The leader stands a short distance away from the line of players and faces away from them. The leader then calls out “green light!”

The players start moving forward towards the leader as quickly as they can. The leader can turn around at any time and shout “red light!”, causing the players to freeze in place.

The players must freeze immediately when the leader shouts “red light!” If a player is caught moving after the command is given, they must go back to the starting line.

The game continues with the leader calling out “green light” and “red light” until one player reaches and tags the leader, becoming the winner.

3. Hopscotch

Hopscotch is a classic children’s game that has been enjoyed for generations.

With its simple rules and minimal equipment requirements, it’s a popular pastime for kids all around the world.

There are many different ways to play. Here are the official Hopscotch rules and some fun variations.

4. Keep It Up

“Keep it up” is a great time for all ages, and it promotes teamwork and cooperation.

Using balloons or a light bouncy ball, see how long you can keep the in the air without it ever touching the ground.

One important rule? Team members cannot touch it more than once in a row.

The team gets a point for every touch. See how many points you can get working together!

5. Popping Bubbles

Making bubbles is the perfect way to add a little magic to an otherwise boring afternoon.

You can make your own bubbles, or use a giant case of bubble solution and a bubble machine to turn your backyard into a magical land.

Your kids will love chasing the bubbles and trying to pop as many of them as they can!

6. Kick the Can

Kick the can is a classic outdoor game that’s been enjoyed by generations of kids. Here’s how to play:

First, gather a group of players and find an empty can (or any other small, sturdy object that can serve as the “can”).

Next, choose a large, open area with plenty of hiding places. This could be a backyard, a park, or any other outdoor space.

One player is chosen to be “it” and stands guard next to the can while the other players scatter and hide.

The goal of the game is for the players to sneak up to the can and kick it without getting caught by “it”.

If “it” catches a player, that player becomes “it” and joins “it” in guarding the can.

The game continues until either all the players have kicked the can or everyone has been caught by “it”.

To make the game more challenging, you can set rules such as requiring players to stay in a designated area, limiting the number of times a player can kick the can, or having “it” count to a certain number before beginning the search.

Overall, kick the can is a fun and exciting game that encourages teamwork, strategy, and physical activity. So grab some friends and get ready to kick some cans!

Here are more fun Sidewalk Chalk activities >>

7. Ghost in the Graveyard

Ghost in the Graveyard is a fun and spooky outdoor game that is perfect for a group of kids to play at night. Here’s how to play:

One player is chosen to be the ghost, and they go and hide somewhere in the playing area.

The rest of the players count down from a predetermined number (usually 10 or 20) and then start looking for the ghost.

The players move around the playing area looking for the ghost. When a player finds the ghost, they shout “ghost in the graveyard!” and everyone runs back to a safe zone.

The safe zone is a designated area, such as a tree or porch, where the players can hide and wait for the ghost to try to tag them.

If the ghost tags a player while they are out of the safe zone, that player becomes the new ghost for the next round.

The game continues until all players have had a chance to be the ghost or until it’s time to go inside.

8. Flashlight Tag

On a warm summer night, bring out your flashlights and play flashlight tag! Here’s how to play:

Gather a group of friends. The more, the merrier!

Choose one person to be “it.” This person will be the one holding the flashlight.

The person who is “it” will count to a designated number, while all the other players hide.

Once “it” finishes counting, they will start searching for the other players using the flashlight.

If a player is tagged by the light of the flashlight, they become “it” for the next round.

The game continues with players taking turns being “it” until everyone is tired or it’s time to go home.

That’s it! Flashlight tag is a fun and active game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Just be sure to play in a safe area and avoid running into any obstacles or tripping hazards in the dark.

You can also play shadow charades, catch the light, flashlight limbo, or have a flashlight disco party! 

See all 5 fun flashlight games >>

9. Outdoor Movie Night

Snuggle up on an outdoor blanket and watch a movie outside! You’ll need portable television or a projector screen.

10. Spud

Spud is a classic outdoor game that’s played with a ball and a group of players. Here’s how to play:

First, gather a group of players and choose someone to start as “it”. “It” holds the ball and calls out the name of another player.

“It” then throws the ball into the air and all the players scatter. The player whose name was called must catch the ball before it hits the ground.

Once the player catches the ball, they shout “Spud!” and the other players freeze. The player with the ball takes three steps in any direction and throws the ball at another player.

If the ball hits the player, they get a letter “S” and become “it”. If the player catches the ball, they get to take three steps and throw the ball at another player.

The game continues until one player has spelled out “Spud” (S-P-U-D) by getting hit by the ball four times (each hit gives them one letter), or until everyone gets a turn being “it” and the winner is the player with the fewest letters.

To make the game more challenging, you can set rules such as requiring players to stay within a certain area or only allowing players to hold onto the ball for a certain amount of time before throwing it.

Overall, Spud is a fun and active game that encourages hand-eye coordination and teamwork. So gather some friends, grab a ball, and get ready to play!

11. Obstacle Course Race

An outdoor obstacle course is a fun way for kids to challenge themselves physically and mentally. Here’s how to set one up:

Obstacles can include things like cones to weave in and out of, a balance beam, small stools, hula hoops, a crawl tunnel, a jump rope to jump over, a small wall to climb over, and a maze to navigate through. You can get creative and use household items or playground equipment to create the obstacles.

Set up the obstacles in a logical order. Start with a warm-up activity and then arrange the obstacles in a way that makes sense.

For example, you might have the kids jump over the jump rope, crawl through the tunnel, climb over the wall, and then weave through the cones.

Make sure the obstacles are safe. Check that there are no sharp edges or other hazards that could cause injury.

Demonstrate each obstacle. Before the kids begin the obstacle course, show them how to complete each obstacle safely and correctly.

Time the kids as they go through the obstacle course. This can add an element of competition and encourage the kids to improve their times.

Encourage the kids to cheer each other on and have fun!

That’s it! Setting up an obstacle course for kids can be a fun and rewarding activity that gets them moving and using their problem-solving skills.

12. Penguin Race

For this fun backyard activity,

A penguin race is a fun and silly game that kids of all ages can enjoy. Here’s how to do it:

Divide the kids into pairs.

Have each pair stand back to back and link arms.

The goal of the game is for the pairs to waddle like penguins from one end of the playing area to the other.

To waddle like a penguin, the pairs must keep their arms linked and shuffle their feet while keeping holding an object (like an egg) between their knees.

The first pair to cross the finish line wins.

To make the game more challenging, you can add obstacles that the pairs must navigate around or through.

You can also make it a relay race by having the first pair tag the next pair in line after they cross the finish line.

That’s it! A penguin race is a fun and silly game that can get kids moving and using their teamwork skills.

Just be sure to play in a safe area and avoid running into any obstacles or tripping hazards.

13. Cornhole

Cornhole is a popular and classic game that is played with two boards and bean bags. Here’s how to play:

Set up the cornhole boards. The boards should be set up about 25 feet apart from each other.

Decide who goes first. You can flip a coin or have one team start.

Each team has four bean bags, which they take turns throwing at the opposite board.

The objective is to get the bean bags into the hole on the board or onto the board itself.

Each bag that lands on the board is worth one point, and each bag that goes into the hole is worth three points.

The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

The game is usually played to 21 points, but you can adjust the winning score based on the time available.

One variation is to play Paper Airplane Cornhole. For this game, each player must create the best paper airplane they can. Then take turns trying to land the airplane into a bucket or other target.

14. Sidewalk Chalk

Did you know you can make ordinary sidewalk chalk into brilliant, bold sidewalk chalk paint, just by adding water?

You can also start a tic-tac-toe tournament, play four-square, create a colorful geometric mural, and more.

Here are 11 Sidewalk Chalk Activities Your Kids Will Love >>

15. ABC Run & Find

Find a comfortable spot to sit, then tell your kids to run and find… anything!

Run and find something that starts with A, B, C, and beyond. Run and find something that is a triangle. Run and find something they love to play with. Run and find something they can write with. Run and find a ball. Just run and find!

(It’s an especially fun activity for the adults who don’t have to lift a finger!)

16. Egg & Spoon Race

Place a small object like a marble or egg on a spoon, and set up two cones or markers on either end of the yard. Each racer has to try to get from one end to the other with out dropping it! Use objects from around the house.

17. Flying Kites

Flying a kite can be a fun and relaxing activity for people of all ages. If you’re new to kite flying, here are some basic steps to get you started:

Choose the right location: Find an open space with plenty of room to run around, and where there are no trees or power lines nearby.

Assemble your kite: Carefully follow the instructions that came with your kite to assemble it. Make sure all the parts are securely fastened.

Choose a windy day: Kites need wind to fly, so choose a day when the wind is strong enough to lift the kite but not so strong that it will be difficult to control.

Launch the kite: Hold the kite up by its bridle (the string that connects the kite to the flying line) with your back to the wind. Slowly let out the line as you run into the wind, allowing the kite to catch the breeze and lift into the air.

Control the kite: Once the kite is in the air, use the line to control its movements. Pull the line in to make the kite fly higher, and let it out to bring the kite back down. Move the line from side to side to make the kite turn and dance in the sky.

Bring the kite back down: When you’re ready to bring the kite back down, gently pull the line in and guide the kite back to the ground.

18. Frisbee Toss

This summer, hone your frisbee throwing skills. Grab a bucket or laundry basket, and try to toss the frisbee in from varying lengths across the yard.

19. Bocce Ball

Easy to learn but difficult to master, Bocce Ball is a family favorite in the summertime. Try to get your ball as close to the pallino as possible. Get this Classic Bocce Set from Overstock.com.

20. Three legged Race

Tie the left leg of one person to the right leg of another person and see how fast you can get across the yard!

21. Treasure Hunt

Hide a few small toys or treats in different places throughout the yard, and ask your child to help you create a treasure map so they can find where it is.

Set out some cold coffee and a piece of paper and have them paint the paper with coffee to create an old, antique effect.

Then, draw the route to the buried treasure on the map. Can they find it on their own? If they’re into it, have them create their own treasure map.

22. Tag!

There are so many different ways to play the classic game of tag. Here are some of our favorites:

Shadow Tag: Players decide one person to be “it.” The “it” person must run around and jump on another player’s shadow, making them the new “it.”

Stuck in The Mud Tag: Players pick someone to be “it.” They get five seconds to run away from whoever is “it.”  The “it” person must run and tag everyone to win the game. When the “it” person tags a player, the player gets stuck in the mud and can’t move. To save players who are stuck, other players can crawl through their legs to free them.

Freeze Tag: One player is It. When a player is tagged, they must remain frozen in place. They can be unfrozen if they’re tagged by a non-It player.

Tunnel Tag: One player is It. When a player is tagged, they must remain frozen in place, with their legs wide apart, creating a tunnel. They can be unfrozen if a non-It player crawls under the leg tunnel.

Bandaid Tag: One player is It. When a player is tagged they put a hand (as a “band-aid”) over the spot where It touched them. When they are tagged a second time, they places the other hand on the new spot. When they are tagged a third time, they becomes It.

23. Croquet

Croquet can be played by two or four or six players.

The object of the game is to hit your ball(s) through the course of six hoops in the right sequence in each direction and finish by hitting them against the centre peg. 

24. Freeze Dance

Freeze dance is a classic children’s game that is fun and easy to play. Here’s how to play:

Choose some music: Choose some upbeat music that the players can dance to.

Start the music: Start playing the music and encourage the players to dance.

Freeze: After a short time, stop the music suddenly and shout “freeze!” The players must stop dancing and freeze in whatever pose they are in.

Unfreeze: After a few seconds, start the music again and shout “unfreeze!” The players must start dancing again.

Repeat: Keep repeating steps 3 and 4, changing the music and poses each time. The game continues until one player is left dancing, and that player becomes the winner.

Freeze dance is a fun and interactive game that encourages creativity and movement. It’s a great way to get kids up and moving, and it can be played indoors or outdoors.

25. Potato Sack Races

Use sleeping bags or potato sacks to race across the yard in this field day favorite! 

26. Around The World

Bring out a laundry basket and set it against a wall outside. You can play H.O.R.S.E., Around The World, and Knockout – no hoop required!

27. Limbo

Put some limbo music on the speaker, and grab a pole, stick, or shower rod. Let the limbo games begin!

28. Plein Air Painting

Grab some paper and paint, and paint in the great outdoors! Paint the trees, grass, and flowers that you see around you. Paint your house. Art easels make this activity even more fun.

31. Ring Toss

Toss each ring to get it around a peg, worth different amounts of point. This classic game will be fun all summer long! We like the Triumph Wooden Ring Toss Game from Blain’s Farm & Fleet because it’s super compact and disassembles easily.

 

Water Games & Activities

32. Water Balloon Games

For good old-fashioned outdoor fun in the summertime, break out the water balloons and make an afternoon of fun out of them.

You can do a simple water balloon toss, have a raucous water balloon fight, or get your anger out doing a balloon stomp.

You can even play water balloon piñata!

Here are 21 water balloon games that will guarantee you a good time. 

33. Slip n’ Slide n’ Grab

Place random objects like pool noodles and beach balls along the slip n slide. Try to grab them as you slide down! Is there anything better than a slip n’ slide on a hot summer day? It’s so much fun!

34. Water Transfer

Take water from a large bucket and transfer it across the lawn to player’s smaller personal bucket. Players must use a spoon, measuring cup or other small container to transfer the water. The first person to fill their personal bucket wins!

35. Water Squirt Fight

There’s nothing more fun on a hot summer day than a water squirt fight in the backyard. These mini dolphin squirters from Overstock.com are extra cute.

 

36. Sprinkler Tug Of War

Put one person on either side of the sprinkler, grab a rope, and tug!

37. Ice block treasure hunt

Grab small toys from around the house, and place them in water in a freeze-safe container. Then place it in the freezer until frozen. Pop it out and let your kids chip away at the ice to find the toys. You may need to let it melt awhile before they can safely and effectively chip away at the ice block.

38. Water Blob

Get a clear plastic tarp and fold it in half. Duct tape the three open sides so that they are completely shut. Leave a small opening to fill up the blob with water. Once it’s filled, close it up with duct tape. Everyone will love sliding, jumping, and laying on your new water blob.Level it up by adding glitter or confetti to the water.

39. Give Your Toys A Bath

Gather up your child’s favorite toys (or any household items that need a scrub), and fill a bucket with soapy water. Show them how to clean and dry the toys. You could also do this with your outdoor balls and toys that have been gathering dirt all winter.

40. Water Painting

Fill a bucket with water, and set out some paintbrushes of different sizes.

Then, let your kids paint to their heart’s desire!

They can paint the fence, the driveway, the exterior of your house, the bathtub, even the walls in your house if you’ll let them.

For young kids, ask them to paint a square, circle, and triangle. Can they write their name? Write how old they are? Your phone number? A pattern of some kind?

The possibilities are endless, and the mess is nonexistent.Fill up a bucket of water and paint anything!

41. Water Pouring Station

Set out a large tupperware or bin. Place a variety of pitchers, cups, and containers inside of it. Fill the pitchers with water. (Add food coloring if you’ve got it! Careful to water it down enough so it doesn’t stain anything.) Your kids will love practicing their water pouring skills. 

42. Sink or Float

Fill a giant tupperware or inflatable pool with water and grab a few items from around the house.

Ask your kids if they think the item will sink or float, and then give it a try.

Next, ask them to go collect other items to test out. Have them guess the results before they test the item.

Older children can write down the name of each item, and write Sink or Float next to it to indicate their guess. A

fterwards, put all the items that sunk into one pile, and all the items that floated into another pile. Which pile has more items? How are the items in each pile similar to each other?

43. Lego Boats

Fill up a bucket of water. Have your child build a boat out of legos or any other material they’d like to try. Can they build a boat that floats?

44. Wash The Car

Is there a child around who doesn’t love to help with this job?

Throw on your favorite playlist, and get your vehicle sparkly clean with the help of your child.

Clear out the old junk, wipe down the interior, vacuum the floors, and scrub down the exterior.

The best part? You’re sure to find some long-lost toys!

Nature Activities

45. Backyard Camping

Have a campout in your own backyard. Roast marshmallows, read stories, sing songs, watch the stars, and cuddle up in your sleeping bag with a good book for an unforgettable night. Need a tent or camping supplies? Try this simple 9×7 Dome Tent from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

46. Bug Hunt

For a fun way to learn about wildlife, grab a mason jar and a magnifying glass and head outside to find some bugs!

Guide the bug into the mason jar and add some grass and twigs. Use your magnifying glass to watch what it does and how it moves.

It’s extra fun to do this at night to catch some lightning bugs.

This activity is especially fun for younger children.

47. Stargazing

Get familiar with the stars this summer. Just grab a blanket, lie down, and look up! Level up your stargazing with a beginner’s telescope like this SmartScope from Overstock.com. It’s great for beginners and can actually hook up to your smartphone.

 

48. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Give your kids a simple list of things you’d like them to find like a sparkly rock, long stick, pink flower, etc. Then send them on their way with the checklist and a bag. There are lots of inspiring versions of nature scavenger hunts online that will keep your kids busy for hours.

49. Cloud Stories

Remember when you were a child, how mesmerizing clouds could be? You could stare at them for a long time, finding new shapes and animals, watching them form and dissipate. On a mild day, lie down with your kids with a good view of the clouds. Make up a story about them!

50. Leaf Rubbings

Collect the most beautiful and interesting leaves your can find. Later, put them in between two pieces of paper and use a crayon or colored pencil to lightly color over it. The leaf’s imprint will begin to show! Create patterns, frame them, make a Summer Leaf booklet, send them to friends as greeting cards, or design a leafy scene in a corner of your house that needs some love.

51. Mud Paint

Grab some containers you don’t care much about, some plain paper, and a handful of old paintbrushes. Outside, scoop a healthy amount of dirt into each container, and then add a small amount of water and good amount of food coloring. If you don’t have food coloring, this will be just as fun with plain old mud. Some recipes call for dish soap to help prevent stains in clothes, but it’s also optional. You’re ready to mud paint!

52. Adopt A Tree

Head out to the backyard or for a walk (keeping a safe distance from others) and find your lucky tree. It can even be a bush or a an old stump! Once you decide on a tree, get better acquainted with it together using your sight, touch, hearing, and smell to describe the tree. Is it alive? How can you tell? Can you tell what kind of tree it is? How could you find out? Do you see any opening buds, insects, holes where animals live, or birds preparing nests? If you have a tape measurer, measure the circumference of the trunk. Check in on your Family Tree every so often to see how it’s doing. Take pictures of it every visit to see how it’s changed. Draw its portrait and hang it on your refrigerator. Write a poem about it. Start a log book. Give it a name and talk about it lovingly. It’s a family member, after all!

53. Mud Pies

Grab a pie tin or some old pots and pans, and head outside to make mud pie! Fill it up with dirt and then decorate it with pebbles, flower petals, twigs and more. The best part? No calories!

54. Yard Work

We’re sure you have loads of things you’d like to get done out in the yard.

Why not invite your child into your world to work alongside you?

Sure, it will slow you down a bit, but it’s one of the best ways for them to learn. You’re sure to find worms and bugs that will mesmerize them, and they’ll be naturally curious about what you’re doing and why.

And, if they lose interest and scamper off to play, just keep right on going and enjoy the time to yourself.

55. Start A Garden Journal

If one of your older children seems enamored with the garden, create a simple garden journal for them (it could be just a notebook or you can find one online).

Ask them to write down their observations every so often as the garden changes.

56. Nature Cutting Tray

Gather some outdoor nature items from around your yard and place them in a bucket or on a tray. Have your kids practice their cutting skills!

57. Dirt Writing

Find the perfect writing stick. One that’s sturdy with a fairly pointy tip, and just the right length. Find some dirt to write in! Write the alphabet. Write your name. Write a sweet message to a loved one. Just write!

58. Nature Matching Game

Pick an item found in nature and show it to the group. The group has 100 seconds to find a similar-looking item. The person with the most similar item is the new nature guide.

59. Arrange A Bouquet Of Flowers

Does your kitchen table need a pick-me-up?

Gather some dandelions, pretty twigs, or other flowers and greenery from outside. Set them out on a tray with some jars and a pitcher of water.

Have your kids pour the water into the jar, snip the flowers the correct length, and arrange them in creative ways to form a lovely little bouquet.

It’s a Montessori favorite!

60. Build A Bird’s Nest

Ask your child for their help building a nest for your neighborhood bird.

What do they think would make a good base for it? What would make the bird comfortable living there? What do you need to include so it doesn’t fall apart? (Something besides glue or tape!) Set it out with some seeds or bird snacks and see if anyone visits!

Building a habitat helps build critical thinking and analytics skills, as well as empathy for other living creatures.

Note: You can also build a simple bird feeder by spreading peanut butter on a pine cone, rolling it in bird seed, and hanging it up in a tree with twine.

61. What Do You Hear?

Choose a cozy looking spot underneath a tree and sit very still. When your child joins you, explain you’re trying to stay as still as a tree for as long as you can. You might go through a few rounds of this, trying to go for a little longer each time. The goal is to awaken your senses to the sounds and sights in nature. Afterwards, talk about what you saw and heart. Start drawing a picture or writing a list of what you observed. (On a piece of paper, or in the dirt!) Invite your child to do the same. Send your picture or list to a loved one. Challenge them to do the same and send it back to you!

62. Shadow Tracing

Choose a toy of object that you’d like to trace. Position it in a way that casts a shadow on the paper. Trace the shadow’s outline, then color it in.

63. Paint Rocks

Rocks are perfect for painting! For a fun letter activity, paint one letter on each rock, and practice spelling out different words and messages. And, for a twist, heat your rocks up in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Paint the hot rocks with crayons. The crayons will melt into a paint-like texture immediately upon touching the rock. Careful not to burn yourself!

Giant Lawn Games

64. Outdoor Scrabble

You can DIY this classic word game using cardboard and sharpies. You’ll need: A-9, B-2, C-2, D-4, E-12, F-2, G-3, H-2, I-9, J-1, K-1, L-4, M-2, N-6, O-8, P-2, Q-1, R-6, S-4, T-6, U-4, V-2, W-2, X-1, Y-2, Z-1 and Blanks-2.

65. Connect Four

Can you hear the 1990’s jingle in your head now? Bring Connect Four to life in your backyard with the GoSports Giant Dark Wood Stain Four In A Row Set on Overstock.com.

66. DIY Twister

Right hand – Red! Left leg – Blue! Find out how you can create a giant outdoor Twister game on your lawn using paint. See it on sheknows.com.

67. Backyard Bananagrams

Use giant pieces of cardboard and paint or Sharpie to recreate the family favorite game, Bananagrams. Or, make a more durable version like the folks at Constantly Lovestruck.

68. Tic Tac Toe

Make your own giant Tic Tac Toe board outside with ropes or poles. For your “X’s and O’s”, use two different colored sets of balls, frisbees, etc.

Or, get this soft, colorful version from Hey! Play! on Overstock.com.

69. Parachute Popcorn

Have each person grab one or two handles and place light ball and objets on the parachute. Start waving the parachute to make the objects pop like popcorn. Don’t have a parachute lying around? We like this classic parachute on Overstock.com because it has reinforced handles.

73. Outdoor Checkers

If you love Checkers, you’ll love Giant outdoor Checkers even more. There are lots of ways to set up a game outside. Here’s one tutorial from Americanlifestylemag.com.

 

74. Rollzee!

Play this Yahtzee-like in your backyard with giant red foam dice from Overstock.com. We googled around and there are lots of other fun big dice game, too! This could be the gift that keeps on giving all summer long.

 

More Backyard Activities

77. Soccer Shootout

Set up two cones for your goal, and mark a ten foot distance, or any distance you choose. Dribble the ball up, and shoot! See how many you can make in a set amount of time. Get a real net to make it official, like the Costway 6’x4′ Soccer Goal on Overstock.com. It’s super lightweight and you can assemble it quickly.

78. Bows & Arrows

It’s the perfect summer to perfect your archery skills.

This beginner archery set comes with everything your child needs to become a skilled little archer: Hey Kids! Bow & Arrow Set

 

79. Wacky Catch!

Ask your child if they’d like to go play catch. Find an open space, and practice playing catch. Try throwing underarm, overarm, sideways, under your legs, and any other way you can think of.

Then, try throwing items besides a traditional ball. Can you spare an oval-shaped egg? What would it be like to throw and catch a wet sponge? A coin? A square pillow?

We hope you loved reading through our favorite backyard activities, and that you have a beautiful day together as family.

80. Lawn Bowling

Set up some bottles and use any ball for a DIY version of lawn bowling, or get an official set from Overstock.com that you can use for years to come.

81. Simon Says

The leader gives simple commands starting with “Simon Says”. If they don’t say Simon Says, that others should not follow the command, and it they do, they’re out!

82. Hopscotch Ring Game

The Hopscotch Ring Game Set by Hey! Play! is a fun and creative twist on Hopscotch. The set comes with 10 multi-colored rings and 15 connectors that can be set up in a variety of configurations, encouraging your child to use their imagination to invent new ways to jump and play. The rings and connectors are made from durable plastic and we love the bright colors.

83. Juggling Games

Try to juggle three balls at one time. Then, try to jog while juggling. It’s joggling! You can use any ball you have lying around the house, but if it gets serious, try these Multicolor Juggling Balls from Overstock.com.

84. Beach Ball Shot Put

Create a throwing line in the grass and throw the beach ball (or any ball) from there by “pushing” the ball in the form of a shot putter. Measure each throw with a tape measure and write the measurement. See who can throw the farthest!

85. Ladder Toss

Challenge your family to a game of ladder toss in the backyard. We like the Triumph Ladder Toss Set from Farm & Fleet because no tools are required to assemble it. It includes two tubes with transparent crossbars and six soft ball bolas (3 blue and 3 red).

86. High Jump

Find a big tree or a clear section of wall space outside, and make sure the area is safe. Jump and reach as high as you can. Use a tape measure to record the heigh of each touch. Who can get the highest?

87. Human Log Roll

Find a large grassy area of your backyard or local park that is free of dangerous obstacles. Make a starting line and have everyone lie down sideways on it. Roll sideways until your entire body crosses the finish line. Who can do it fastest?

88. Long Jump Competition

Find a grassy area of your backyard that is safe to jump around. Market a take-off line, and have everyone jump from that spot. They should bend their knees, swing their arms, and jump for distance. Measure each jump with a tape-measurer and see who can jump the farthest!

89. Washer Toss

3-Hole Washer game boards are designed with 3 holes for maximum scoring potential. You have three chances to score on this game. The Triumph 3-Hole Washer Toss also comes with six bean bags and six washers.

 

90. Foam Fire Alien Invaders

Fight alien invaders in your backyard with the GoSports Official Foam Fire Blasters on Overstock.com. We like these because the foam balls seem like they can’t cause too serious of an injury!

91. I spy

Play this classic game the next time you’re bored. Say “I Spy with my little eye something…” and then choose a color or clue. The other players can take turns guessing. Whoever gets it right can choose the next clue.

92. Football Toss

Perfect your football toss this summer with the GoSports Red Zone Challenge Football Toss Game. There’s a dry erase board included to keep score and you can play alone or with up to four people.

93. Fence Funnel

On an outdoor fence or wall, use paper towel or toilet paper cardboard rolls to create an elaborate funnel. Send a marble or small ball through the funnel, and see if you can get it to land in a cup.

94. Outdoor Yoga

Look up some basic yoga poses and head to the backyard for an outdoor yoga class. For example, tell your kids that you’re going to turn into a tree, tall and steady. Show them the Tree Pose, bringing one foot to the inner thigh, and palms together at your chest or above your head. It takes balance!

95. Reflex Soccer Game

Practice your saving, shooting, and other soccer skills with the Reflex Soccer Outdoor Game on Overstock.com. It has a recoil action, adjustable rope length, and a vinyl soccer ball with inflation pump. You fill the base with either sand or water so it stays put!

There are countless backyard games and activities that can keep kids entertained and active for hours.

From classic games like tag and hide and seek to newer activities like water balloon piñatas and obstacle courses, there’s something for everyone.

Not only do these games and activities provide fun and laughter, but they also promote physical fitness, social skills, and creativity.

So whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or teacher, consider trying out some of these backyard games and activities with the kids in your life.

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