What kids party games are popular today?
Adding entertainment to your event is really important. It keeps idle minds and hands busy. But what kids party games are popular today? Do your little ones still want to whack a Piñata, or is there something new, flashy or more exhilarating you should be considering? We dive in during today’s piece, talking about what games kids want and the categories to look at that you might not even know about (we see you, slime parties).
Old-school party games
For younger primary-aged children, classic games like Musical Chairs, ‘Duck, Duck, Goose’, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Freeze and Dance, a Piñata, or Hot Potato all still slap. Combine these with a little free play and ambient music, and what’s not to love? You can probably get away with these until they’re 8 or 9.
Competitive games
Get the blood pumping with Sport’s Day style relay races like a sack race, egg-and-spoon, 3-legged race or tug-of-war. If mums and dads are there, try a wheelbarrow or relay. Break into teams for a treasure or scavenger hunt, or get a little more outside-the-box with a balloon pop or water balloon fight.
Creative games
Hire an arts & crafts party supplier and let them make t-shirts, masks, hats, cupcakes, slime and more. If you want something less messy, try a game of telephone or a story chain. And if you really want to get them giggling, try a sensory game where they put their hands into a sealed box with a hole and try to guess what they’re touching. Consider objects like a damp sponge, jello, a fluffy toy, and the like.
Video games
Gaming parties are all the rage for older kids. You could plan a trip to a local arcade or theme a party around one of these console favourites:
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Super Mario Party
- Overcooked! 2
- Minecraft
- Nintendo Switch Sports
- Rocket League
- Crash Team Racing
- Moving Out
- Gang Beasts
Just remember to check with the other children’s parents to make sure the game and its subject matter are okay with them and advise them about the amount of screen time their little one will have at the event.
Sport games
Who doesn’t like sport!? A goal kicking contest, basketball free throw game, dodgeball, kickball, mini golf, lawn bowling and frisbee are all great games that you can play with small-sized equipment in your local park or outdoor venue.
Challenge games
Themed obstacle courses and escape rooms are becoming more popular for older children, and there are tons of articles online on how to make one. It’s a great way to burn off some excess energy while exercising their minds.
Need even more ideas for what to plan, how to budget or where to get suppliers? Maybe you’d like a timeline of when to do what? We have all this and more on our kids party blog. Bookmark it to read new helpful features for parents every single month.
