Kids need physical activity, and play is one of the most effective and joyful ways to make it happen.
Whether it’s during recess, in the classroom, or at home, active play helps kids stay physically healthy and mentally engaged. It’s more than just a break from routine—it’s a critical part of child development.
When kids play, they build motor skills and physical strength, develop stronger relationships with their peers, and return to the rest of their day more focused and ready to thrive.
Here are 10 easy-to-lead games that can help kids of all ages get moving. Best of all, these games work in a variety of spaces, require minimal equipment, and can be adjusted to fit different ages and abilities.
Up, Down, Stop, Go
A fast-paced listening game where players move opposite to the command. Ex. jump up when told down, freeze when told go.
Variations: With younger kids, use literal commands (up means up, down means down, etc). Start out just doing up and down and then add the stop and go commands. Then mix up all four commands and the speed at which they are given.
What it builds: Quick movement, impulse control, and focus
Switch
Using a small indoor or outdoor space, like a foursquare court, players must quickly find a new spot when “Switch!” is called.
Variations: Using equipment like hula hoops or cones to add/subtract the number of spaces available for players to “switch” to.
What it builds: Quick strategic thinking, agility, balance
Sharks and Minnows
Players sprint across a play area while avoiding being tagged by “sharks” in the middle.
Variations: Add consequences for getting tagged, like becoming another shark or turning into “seaweed” (stand in place but can move arms to tag minnows).
What it builds: Speed, agility, and strategic movement
Bandage Tag
When tagged, players place a hand on the “injury” and keep playing. After three tags, they visit a “care zone” to get back in the game.
Variation: Allow players to heal themselves by stepping anywhere outside the boundaries to do the jumping jacks or other actions.
What it builds: Continuous movement, teamwork, and peer support
Back-to-Back Get Up
Partners sit on the ground back-to-back, link arms, and, using balance and communication, try to stand up together without using their hands.
Variation: Increase the size of the group working together to 3 or 4 students for an added challenge.
What it builds: Strength, balance, coordination, and teamwork
Chuck the Chicken
Teams race to retrieve a rubber chicken (or other soft object) while the other team runs in a circle to score points.
Variation: Try using a variety of items to replace the chicken of different sizes, shapes, and weights.
What it builds: Quick movement, teamwork, and strategic thinking
Lava Game
Players navigate a play space without touching the ground (or “lava”) by stepping only on safe objects like cones, mats, hula hoops, or tape.
Variation: Lay out the hula hoops further apart once players understand the game, making it more difficult to cross the lava.
What it builds: Balance, spacial awareness, and problem-solving
Move Your Feet
Designated taggers try to hit runners’ feet with a soft ball by throwing or rolling it low. If a runner gets hit on the foot, they head to a designated area to complete an exercise (like jumping jacks) before rejoining the game.
Variation: Increase the number of balls and taggers to make the game more challenging for older students
What it builds: Hand-eye and foot-eye coordination
Dog Chases Its Tail
A small group forms a line and holds hands. The player in front tries to tag the player in the back without breaking the chain.
Variation: Set up multiple lines of players, creating two dogs that can chase each other’s tails.
What it builds: Agility, spatial awareness, and group coordination
Run & Rally
The leader calls out a prompt (ex. Touch something yellow – run!) and players run to complete the task. Upon hearing the leader yell “Rally!” the players quickly regroup and form a new line based on criteria such as height or birthday month.
Variation: Challenge team to play the game without talking or have players touch two or more objects before returning
What it builds: Quick thinking, listening skills, and team coordination
Let’s Get Moving!
From playgrounds to classrooms to backyards to sports fields and courts, kids thrive when they have opportunities to get physically active. These simple games turn everyday spaces into active, playful environments where kids can move their bodies, spark joy, and connect with others.
Play doesn’t always require fancy equipment or perfect conditions—just a little creativity and a willingness to have fun. And when adults join in or help create the space for play, kids benefit even more.
Looking for more ways to keep kids active? Explore our free Game Library for even more ideas you can use anywhere, anytime.
