The 27 Best Childrens Party Games to Keep Kids Entertained

Looking for the best children’s party games to keep kids entertained? You’re in the right place! In this article, you’ll find a variety of game ideas, from classic favorites to creative and outdoor games, all aimed at making your party a hit.

Classic Party Games for Kids

Classic party games are timeless favourites that have been enjoyed by generations of children. These traditional party games are always a hit at any kids’ birthday party, bringing everyone together for some good old-fashioned fun. They are versatile, can be adapted for different age groups, and can be played in various locations, whether it’s at home, in a park, or a hired venue. The best party games ensure that every celebration is memorable, making them some of the favourite party games.

Here are some of these beloved games.

Musical Chairs

Musical Chairs is a classic game that never fails to entertain. Chairs are arranged in a circle, and as the music play music, children walk around them. When the music stops, everyone must quickly find a chair to sit in, with one chair removed each round.

The game continues until only one child is left sitting, making it a favorite among kids.

Pin the Tail on the Donkey

Pin the Tail on the Donkey is another traditional party game that brings lots of giggles. The objective is simple: blindfolded children take turns trying to pin a tail on a donkey poster.

Easily adaptable to any theme, the winner is the one who gets their tail closest to the correct spot.

Egg and Spoon Race

The Egg and Spoon Race is a fun game that requires careful coordination. Children balance an egg on a spoon and race to the finish line. For younger children, using a plastic egg or a small toy can prevent messy accidents, while older kids might enjoy the added challenge of navigating obstacles along the way.

Outdoor Party Games

Outdoor party games are perfect for letting kids burn off some energy while enjoying the fresh air. These games not only provide physical activity but also add a sense of adventure and exploration to any kids’ birthday party theme.

Whether it’s competitive races or treasure hunts, the outdoors offers something for everyone.

Sack Race

The Sack Race is a classic game where participants hop to the finish line while inside a burlap sack. This game promotes physical activity and laughter as kids try to keep their balance and move forward.

Teammates can take turns hopping around a marked point in relay variations.

Tug of War

Tug of War is a team-based game that requires strength and cooperation. Children are divided into two teams, each pulling on opposite ends of a rope, trying to drag the other team across a designated line.

This game fosters both fun and teamwork through friendly competition.

Treasure Hunt

A Treasure Hunt is an exciting game that can be tailored to fit any party theme. Children follow clues to find hidden treasures around the party area. For younger kids, picture clues can be used, and small prizes are awarded for completing the hunt, making it a thrilling adventure.

Indoor Party Games

Indoor party games are a great option when the weather isn’t cooperating or if you prefer to keep the fun inside. These games can be just as exciting and engaging as outdoor ones, offering a variety of activities to keep kids entertained.

Indoor games range from fast-paced eliminations to quiet puzzles, catering to various energy levels and interests.

Simon Says

Simon Says is a classic game that tests children’s ability to follow instructions. The objective is to listen carefully and only follow commands that begin with “Simon says.” Those who make a mistake are out, making it a fun and challenging game that requires focus and quick thinking.

Hot Potato

Hot Potato is a lively game where children sit in a circle and pass a ball or toy around while music plays. The music will eventually stop. When it does, the child holding the “hot potato” is out.

The game continues until one child remains, providing a fast-paced and exciting activity for younger children.

Sleeping Lions

Sleeping Lions is a unique game that encourages children to stay still and quiet. All the children lie down and pretend to be sleeping lions, while one player, the hunter, tries to make them move without touching them. This game fosters patience and focus, providing a calm yet engaging activity.

Team-Based Party Games

Team-based party games are fantastic for promoting cooperation and friendly competition among children. These games require kids to work together to achieve a common goal, making them perfect for fostering teamwork and social interaction.

Here are some exciting team-based games that will have everyone cheering.

Relay Race

Relay races are all about teamwork and participation. Whether it’s the Balloon Waddle Relay, where kids run with a balloon between their knees, or other relay challenges, these races are sure to get everyone involved and excited.

Teams work together to reach the finish line.

Balloon Pop Relay

The Balloon Pop Relay adds a thrilling twist to the traditional relay race. Teams race to pop balloons as part of the challenge, adding an element of excitement and fun.

Kids will love racing against time and each other in this game.

Parachute Games

Parachute Games are engaging activities that involve teamwork and coordination. Kids can sit under, wave, spin, bounce objects, and even dance with the parachute, fostering social interaction and physical activity.

Adding balls or other objects makes the games even more interactive and fun.

Creative and Crafty Party Games

Creative and crafty party games are perfect for sparking children’s imagination and creativity. These activities allow kids to express themselves through various artistic and hands-on tasks.

Here are some examples of creative and crafty party games:

• Making costumes
• Decorating cupcakes
• Creating friendship bracelets
• Painting rocks
• Designing personalized party hats

These games provide endless opportunities for fun and creativity.

Dress Up Relay Race

The Dress Up Relay Race combines the fun of dressing up with the excitement of a relay race. Teams race to put on costumes and complete a task, using their imaginations to create characters and scenarios.

A dress-up station with costumes and accessories enhances the experience.

Cupcake Decorating Contest

In a Cupcake Decorating Contest, kids get to express their creativity by designing their own cupcakes using various toppings. Each participant decorates their cupcake, and the decorated cupcakes are showcased for judges to evaluate.

Winners are selected based on creativity and presentation, adding a competitive edge to the fun.

DIY Photo Booth

Setting up a DIY Photo Booth at a party allows kids to pose with props and costumes, creating fun memories. Easy to set up, this activity provides endless entertainment as children pose and take pictures with friends.

Memory and Observation Games

Memory and observation games challenge children’s cognitive skills while providing entertainment. These games require kids to pay close attention and recall details, enhancing their memory and observational abilities.

Here are some fun and engaging memory games that will keep kids entertained and mentally stimulated.

Kim's Game

Kim’s Game involves a tray with a mix of objects covered by a tea towel. Children are given one to two minutes to memorize the items before they are covered again. The child who remembers the most items wins, making it a classic test of memory and observation skills.

Guess the Number in the Jar

In Guess the Number in the Jar, kids try to guess the total number of objects in a jar. This game can include various small items like candies or marbles, making it a fun and engaging activity that challenges children’s estimation skills.

Who/What Am I?

Who/What Am I? is a guessing game where players ask yes/no questions to identify the character or object stuck to their back. The objective is to guess the identity through questions, engaging children’s deductive reasoning skills in a fun, interactive way.

Messy and Silly Party Games

Messy and silly fun party games are a guaranteed way to bring laughter and excitement to any kids’ birthday party. These games allow children to let loose and have fun in a playful and sometimes chaotic environment.

These games, from eating doughnuts without hands to diving into jelly, create memorable moments filled with joy and giggles.

Doughnut Dangle

Doughnut Dangle is a hilarious game where kids try to eat doughnuts hanging from strings without using their hands. The challenge lies in biting the swinging doughnuts, making it a favorite among party guests.

Jelly Race

In the Jelly Race, children use only their mouths to retrieve a toy, such as a LEGO person, from a bowl of jelly. This messy game is a great way to get kids laughing and engaged in silly fun.

Face Cookie

Face Cookie is a fun game where kids place a cookie on their forehead and try to move it to their mouth using only their facial muscles. This challenging and amusing game provides lots of laughs as kids try to eat the cookie using only their facial muscles.

Water-Based Party Games

Water-based party games are perfect for hot weather and provide a refreshing way for kids to cool off while having fun. Activities like water balloon toss, slip ‘n slide, and sponge relays make these games ideal for summer parties and outdoor fun.

Water Balloon Toss

In the Water Balloon Toss, children throw water balloons to each other, and if a balloon breaks on their turn, they’re out. This game tests coordination and timing, with the last team standing declared the winner.

Sponge Relay

The Sponge Relay involves teams competing to transfer water using sponges to fill a bucket. Players must carry wet sponges above their heads while racing, adding an element of fun and challenge.

The Sponge Relay emphasizes teamwork and speed.

Slip 'n Slide

A Slip ‘n Slide provides endless fun as children slide down a long, plastic sheet lubricated with soap and water. This activity is a popular choice for summer parties, offering kids a wet and slippery surface to slide on and enjoy.

Educational Party Games

Educational party games blend fun with learning, providing a way for children to engage their minds while playing. Activities like Alphabet Scavenger Hunt, Math Bingo, and Science Experiments promote literacy, math, and scientific inquiry skills.

Alphabet Scavenger Hunt

The Alphabet Scavenger Hunt is an engaging game where kids search for items that start with each letter of the alphabet. This activity encourages literacy and observational skills as children recognize letters and match them with objects.

Math Bingo

Math Bingo replaces traditional numbers with math problems, making it an engaging and educational game. Children solve math problems to mark their bingo cards, promoting numerical skills in a fun way.

Science Experiments

Science experiments, such as making slime or creating volcano eruptions, turn a party into an exciting and educational experience. Hands-on activities like these foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and curiosity, keeping kids entertained and engaged.

Conclusion

When planning a children's birthday party, incorporate a range of fun and engaging activities that cater to kids of all ages. Choose from classic, outdoor, creative, educational, and even messy games to suit every party theme and setting. These games not only entertain but also promote physical activity, teamwork, and cognitive skills. Use these ideas to create unforgettable moments filled with laughter and joy at your next kids' party!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Classic Party Games for Kids?

You can't go wrong with classic party games like Musical Chairs, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, and the Egg and Spoon Race! These favorites are always a blast and perfect for kids of all ages!

What Are Some Good Outdoor Party Games for Kids?

Outdoor party games like Sack Race, Tug of War, and Treasure Hunt are fantastic picks! They not only get the kids moving but also fill the party with excitement and adventure!

Can You Suggest Some Indoor Party Games for Bad Weather?

Absolutely! Indoor games like Simon Says, Hot Potato, and Sleeping Lions will keep the fun alive and entertaining, no matter the weather outside! Get ready for some laughs and great memories!

How Can I Include Educational Games in a Kids Party?

You can absolutely make a kids' party exciting by including educational games like Alphabet Scavenger Hunt, Math Bingo, and fun Science Experiments! Not only will the kids have a blast, but they'll also be learning valuable skills in a super engaging way!

What Are Some Fun Messy Games for Kids Parties?

Get ready for laughter and fun with messy games like Doughnut Dangle, Jelly Race, and Face Cookie! These thrilling activities will create unforgettable moments at your kids' party!