7 Outdoor Games That 7- to 8-Year-Olds Will Love

Let me be honest with you, there’s an assumption that kids these days are only interested in their screens. That outdoor games are a thing of the past, lost to the era of smartphones and gaming consoles.

But guess what?

That’s not entirely true.

Sure, technology has its charm but nothing can replace the thrill and joy of good, old-fashioned outdoor games. They’re fun while also essential for a child’s physical and mental development, and let’s not forget the vital social skills they pick up along the way.

So, if you’re scratching your head thinking of how to get your 7- to 8-year-olds to swap their screens for some sunshine, I’ve got just the thing for you.

Here are seven outdoor games that your young ones will absolutely love. Games that will have them jumping with joy, games that will turn their routine playdates into unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive in, shall we?

1. Treasure hunt

Let’s kick things off with a classic – the treasure hunt.

A timeless game that never fails to excite children. The thrill of deciphering clues and the joy of discovering hidden treasures is something that just can’t be replicated on a screen.

Not only does this game spark their curiosity, but it also helps them develop problem-solving skills, team spirit and enhances their navigational abilities.

The next time you’re hosting a playdate in your backyard, set up a fun treasure hunt. Trust me, it’ll be a hit!

2. Duck, duck, goose

Ah, Duck, Duck, Goose. This game takes me on a trip down memory lane.

When I was a kid, this was our go-to game at every family picnic. We would form a circle and the ‘it’ person would walk around tapping heads and naming each player a ‘duck’ until they finally chose their ‘goose’. The chase that followed was always filled with laughter and cheers.

Fast forward to now, I introduced this game to my nephew on his 7th birthday party. I watched him and his friends giggling, running around in circles, basically having the time of their lives.

And let’s not forget the lesson they learned – sometimes you’re the duck, sometimes you’re the goose. It’s all about taking turns and enjoying the game.

3. Hopscotch

Hopscotch is a game that has stood the test of time. It’s been played by children all over the world for centuries, and it’s just as fun today as it was back then.

The game originated in ancient Rome, where soldiers used it as a training exercise. It’s evolved since then into the fun, chalk-drawn game that kids love today.

Simple in design, yet challenging and engaging, hopscotch can keep your 7- to 8-year-olds entertained for hours. They’ll jump, hop, and skip their way across numbered squares, improving their balance, coordination, and counting skills along the way.

With hopscotch, fun and learning go hand in hand. And trust me, your kids are going to love it!

4. Freeze tag

Next up on the list is a game that never grows old – Freeze Tag.

It’s simple, it’s fun, and it gets the kids moving. One person is ‘it’ and their job is to chase and ‘tag’ the others. The twist? If you’re tagged, you ‘freeze’ in place until a non-frozen player touches you.

I’ve seen kids at the park near my house play this game and the joy on their faces is absolutely infectious. They’re always on their toes, running around, trying not to get tagged. And when they do, the anticipation of who will come to ‘unfreeze’ them adds another layer of excitement.

So go ahead, get your 7- to 8-year-olds to play Freeze Tag. It’s an oldie but definitely a goodie!

5. Jump rope challenges

Remember the good old jump rope? It’s more than just a piece of playground equipment.

A little-known fact is that jumping rope can actually burn more calories than running. But for our 7- to 8-year-olds, it’s all about the fun challenges.

Set up jump rope challenges with different levels – single jumps, double jumps, running in and out without missing a beat. And when they’re up for it, introduce them to some fun rhymes to chant while they jump. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they pick it up.

This game keeps them active and improves their coordination and timing. Additionally, the sense of achievement they get from mastering a new challenge is priceless.

6. Hide and Seek

Trust me, there’s nothing like a good game of hide and seek to get the heart racing!

To this day, I vividly remember the thrill of finding the perfect hiding spot in our backyard and then holding my breath as my friends came searching.

Here’s a little story.

Once, I wedged myself between two thick bushes, completely hidden from view. My friends searched high and low, but they couldn’t find me. It was exhilarating! By the time they finally spotted me, we were all laughing so hard our stomachs hurt.

And that’s the beauty of hide and seek.

It’s more than just hiding and seeking; it’s about camaraderie, team spirit, and shared laughter. These bonds endure long after the game ends, making it a beloved outdoor activity for your kids.

7. Water balloon toss

If you’re looking for a game that’s sure to be a splash hit during the summer, look no further – Water Balloon Toss is the answer.

It’s more than just a game; it’s an avenue for kids to learn about coordination, teamwork and even a bit about physics (without them even realizing it)! The goal is to toss the water balloon back and forth without letting it burst. With each successful toss, the players take a step back, increasing the distance and the challenge.

Grab some water balloons, find a sunny spot in your backyard and let the games begin. You’ll not only cool them off but also create some unforgettable memories. That’s the magic of outdoor games.

Embracing the outdoors

Isn’t it amazing how the simplest of games can create the most profound memories? The laughter, the excitement, the joy of just being kids playing outside – these are the moments that truly matter.

Introducing your 7- to 8-year-olds to these outdoor games is not just keeping them entertained. It’s nurturing their growth, fostering their creativity and helping them build valuable life skills.

So why not take a step back from the digital world and encourage some good old-fashioned playtime? Let them explore, let them get their hands dirty, let them ‘just be kids’.

And here’s a little secret – you might just find that you’ll enjoy joining in on the fun too!

Go ahead, give these games a try. You never know, they could become your child’s new favorite outdoor activity. And in the process, you’re creating a childhood filled with sunshine, laughter and unforgettable memories.

That’s the true beauty of outdoor play.

Tina Fey

Tina Fey

Tina Fey is a nomadic writer with a background in psychology, specializing in child development. Born and raised in diverse cultural settings, she developed a deep understanding of human behavior and the intricacies of parenting. Driven by her passion for helping others, Tina now contributes to Careful Parents, offering practical advice and insights drawn from her expertise and experiences. Through her articles, she aims to empower parents with effective strategies for nurturing healthy relationships and fostering their children's growth.

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