Recess games to play at school is the topic of our post today!
Ah, recess! That precious pocket of time where our students get to shed the structure of the classroom, let loose, and simply be kids. As a former teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the vital role that recess plays in recharging young minds, promoting physical health, and fostering social skills.
I’ve also seen recess turn into a chaotic free-for-all, leaving some kids sidelined, others overwhelmed. How can we, as educators, strike the perfect balance between freedom and structure during this break? How can we ensure that this time is inclusive, engaging, and fun for each one of our students?
The answer is…Recess games!!
I’ve always been a staunch believer in the power of play. The right game can turn any playground into a stage of creativity, a field of teamwork, a gym of physical activity, and a classroom of life skills. And today, I’m here to share with you some of my favorite recess games that have the potential to transform school’s recess into a time that every student looks forward to.
Recess Games to Play at School
Here are some practical suggestions for recess games to play at school:
1. Four Square
This classic game only requires some pavement, chalk, and a ball. The playground is divided into four squares, and the objective is to move up to the highest square by keeping the ball in play.
2. Duck, Duck, Goose
This is a great game for younger children. They sit in a circle while one student walks around tapping the others on the head saying “duck” until they choose someone and say “goose”. The “goose” then gets up and chases the first student around the circle, trying to tag them before they can sit down in the “goose’s” spot.
3. Jump Rope Challenges
Jumping rope is not only fun, but it’s also great exercise. Students can take turns jumping and creating fun challenges.
4. Tug of War
All you need is a rope and some open space. This game is great for team building and physical exercise.
5. Capture the Flag
This game encourages strategy and teamwork. The playing field is divided into two territories, and each team tries to capture the other’s flag without being tagged in the enemy territory.
6. Simon Says
This game is great for listening skills. One student plays “Simon” and gives the other students commands starting with “Simon says”. If a command is given without saying “Simon says” first, students who follow that command are out.
7. Kickball
This game is like a combination of baseball and soccer. It’s a team game that’s great for older children and can accommodate a larger group.
8. Hopscotch
This game can be played with chalk and stones. It encourages coordination and balance.
9. Tag Variations
There are so many different ways to play tag – freeze tag, flashlight tag, etc.
10. Chalk Drawing Contests
If the school allows, students can use chalk to draw on designated areas of the pavement. You can have contests for the best drawing or just let creativity run wild.
11. Relay Races
Traditional relay races or fun variations like egg-and-spoon or sack races can be very enjoyable and promote team spirit.
12. Parachute Games
If you have a play parachute, there are various games that can be played, such as “parachute popcorn” where you throw lots of small balls onto the parachute and try to keep them bouncing.
13. Hide and Seek
An old classic that never goes out of style. This game can be played in so many different ways and environments.
14. Red Light, Green Light
In this game, one person plays the “stoplight” and the rest try to touch him/her. When the stoplight faces the group, they say “red light” and everyone must freeze. The stoplight then turns their back and says “green light”, and the kids try to get as close as possible.
15. Soccer Drills
Set up some soccer drills or a mini match. This is a good way to get kids active and working as a team.
16. Bench Ball
This game requires a ball and two benches. Teams aim to get all their players onto the opposing team’s bench by hitting the opponents with the ball below the knees.
17. Scavenger Hunt
Create a scavenger hunt around the schoolyard. This will encourage exploration and problem-solving.
18. Obstacle Course
Set up a fun and challenging obstacle course. This helps students develop their gross motor skills and is a great way to keep them active.
19. Pictionary (Outdoor Version)
Use outdoor chalk to have students draw pictures related to a certain topic, and have others guess what it is.
20. Mother May I
In this game, one student plays the “mother” and the other students stand at a starting line. The students ask “Mother, may I take [number] steps forward?” The “mother” then replies either “Yes, you may” or “No, you may not”.
Final thoughts
And there you have it, fellow cultivators of curiosity and creativity! A repertoire of engaging, fun, and inclusive recess games that can transform any schoolyard into a playground of laughter, teamwork, and active learning.
While structured lessons within the four walls of a classroom are undeniably important, let us never forget the lessons that the outdoors, freedom, and play teach our students. In these moments of unbridled joy and spirited play, we see leadership, strategy, negotiation, resilience, and so much more.
