We know that there are many benefits of getting children outside and physically active but Sometimes, they just need a bit of encouragement to get them started. Here are a few playground games to inspire them to go outside and get the most out of their playground.
Be warned - when you get them outside and engaged, you may struggle to get them back inside!
Follow the leader
Following the leader not only keeps children physically active but teaches them to mimic and perform actions.
The ‘leader’ must move around the jungle gym by running, hanging, climbing, or swinging, alternating their movements and performing different actions that the other players must mimic.
Red Light, Green Light
This game challenges listening and reaction time. One player, the traffic light, stands at the one end of the jungle gym, with the other players on the other end. Their goal is to get to the traffic light, but they can only move when the light is green ie the person is facing away from the group. When the traffic light turns around and says “red light!”, all players must stand still. If someone is caught moving, they have to go back to the beginning.
The Floor is Lava
Inspiring imagination, by pretending the floor is lava, children must move between activities on the jungle gym without touching the floor.
One of the hardest parts of being a parent is getting your children away from enticing computer screens and into the outdoors, we hope using these games you will succeed in giving them the benefits of outdoor exercise
You could even take your fitness routine outside and play with them! See our previous story on jungle gyms and adult fitness.