Looking for games for kids that don’t require any special equipment? That don’t need internet? Just plain and simple outdoor field day games that they can just play?
My kids laugh anytime I say, “Back in my day…”But, can we agree that things have definitely changed since we were kids, and technology plays a huge part in that.
Believe me, I’m guilty of it too. This cell phone generation is just different. But, it doesn’t mean I haven’t taught my kids the games we used to play.
The easy backyard games that take nothing more than you and a few siblings/friends/neighbors to enjoy.
Field Day Games Without Equipment
Looking for some fun outdoor games to play with a large group?
Whether you’re camping, enjoying an outing at a park, or sitting in your own backyard, these games take nothing more to play besides a bit of energy.
Here are some great games that require no equipment and are perfect for your next outdoor party or picnic.
One of the best things about these games is that they can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So whether you’ve got a group of kids or adults, these games will be perfect for your next get-together.
Classic Games Kids Can Play Without Equipment
Hide-and-SeekPick one person to be “it” and have them start counting while everyone else hides. The counting spot can also be designated as base where players can run to be safe anytime during play. The last person found will be it for the next round.
SardinesThink hide-and-seek, but reversed. The larger group hides their eyes, counting and then searching for one player. Once found, the group joins the hidden in their hiding spot and they lie close together like sardines.
Red Light, Green LightDesignate one person to be the light while everyone else lines up at the opposite end of the field. The light will begin the game by yelling, “Green light!” and turning their back to the others. Everyone else is to run/walk towards the light before it “turns red“. When the light yells, “Red light,” and turns around, everyone must freeze in place. Anyone caught still moving will have to go back to the starting line to begin again. The first person to make it to the light will become the traffic light for the next round.
Duck, Duck, GooseThis classic game couldn’t be more simple. Everyone sits in a circle with one person designated as “it.” That player then walks around the circle gently touching each player on the head as they pass calling out, “duck.” But, if “it” touches a player’s head and calls out. “goose,” that person must get up and chase the player around the circle. If tagged before getting back to the empty seat in the circle, the goose then becomes it. Otherwise, the game resumes until another player successfully tags “it.”
Simon SaysThis games requires good listening skills. One person is “Simon” and gets to give the others tasks to do. They simply say, “Simon says… touch your nose (for example).” If a player does something without Simon saying it, they are out. The last person standing becomes the next Simon.
Red RoverThis games requires a number of players, divided into two teams. Once teams are designated, they stand parallel from each other with at least 10 yards between them. The teams hold hands in their line and take turns yelling out, “Red Rover, Red Rover, let (name of person on opposite team) come over.”The person whose name is called then runs toward the other line in an attempt to break through the line. If successful, they grab a player and take them back to join their team.. If unsuccessful, they join the new team. Play continues until one team has only one person and they are not able to break through.
There are so many fun games to play outside, and the best part is that you don’t need any equipment! All you need is a bit of space and your imagination.
Here are some more of our favorite outdoor games that are perfect for a field day:
Tag You’re It
There is probably no other easier game to play without equipment than the classic game of tag.
TagTag is as simple as one person being “it” and chasing the other players in an attempt to tag them. The tagged person then becomes “it.”
Shadow TagIn this variation, one person is designated “it” and has to tag the shadow of other players. The last player left untagged is “it” for the next round.
Freeze TagAs in classic tag, one person is “it” and tries to tag the other players. In Freeze Tag, there is an additional element where the player tagged must freeze in position. They then have to wait to be unfrozen by another player. The last person left frozen is it for the next round.
Cartoon TagThis version of tag offers a unique defense mechanism for players. To avoid being tagged, player can yell out a cartoon character in order to avoid the tag. The first person tagged is the next “it.”
Blind Man’s BluffAs the name suggests, in this variation of tag the person who is “it” is blindfolded. Once blindfolded, the person is spun around and listens for the other players and tries to tag them. The first person tagged is the next one “it.”
What are the best outdoor games to play with friends? It depends on your group’s interests, but there are a few classics that are always fun.
Here are a few of our favorite running games:
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!
Stretch those legs and get those feet running with these races and relays that require nothing more than the will to run!
100 Yard DashMeasure out 100 yards (or your preferred distance) and designate a start and finish line. The first runner to the finish line wins.
Relay RaceMark out a start and finish line and divide into equal teams. When the race begins, the first player races to a designated point and then tags the next runner. This continues until the last player on each team crosses over the finish line.
Spider RaceEach team needs two players of comparable height. The players stand back-to-back and link elbows. The pair then (carefully) runs to a designated point before running back towards the initial starting line. Player two will run backward on the first stretch, and then player one will run backward on the stretch back to the finish line. (Can also be run as a relay tagging in the next “spider” team at the initial starting point)
Wheelbarrow RaceOnce teams are chosen and the race course is set, each team/pair forms a wheelbarrow. To form the wheelbarrow, one player gets down on their hands and knees before lifting their legs to their teammate. The teammate holds their legs up as they race together towards the finish line.
Sprint RaceA sprint running race is a short distance race. Therefore, take the distance off the dash race above and shorten it. Runners race as fast as they can the short track to the finish line. The first one across wins.
Backwards RaceJust as the name portrays, racers will walk or run towards the finish line… backwards!
Cartwheel RaceAgain, easily explanatory with its name. Racers line up (far apart) and do cartwheels to the finish line. The first one to cross wins.
These outside games to play are the perfect way to get your kids moving and having fun. And, the best part is, you don’t need any equipment to play them!
Take a Leap
Get jumping! Whether vertical or horizontal, it’s all about the fun to be had.
Long JumpClear a jumping area free of any debris and nearby hazards. Set a designated starting point for the jumpers. Then, each jumper runs from that point and jumps at the beginning of the jump area. The longest jump wins.
Vertical JumpOther than a visual way to measure how high each athlete jumps, this takes little more than leg strength. Have each jumper stand in position (next to a wall or other height marker, if available) and, using only their body, jump as high as they can with their arms stretched over their heads. The athlete who reaches to highest point wins.
Leap FrogDesignate a start and finish line and divide into two teams. You can play with 2 or more players on each team (players of comparable size work best). Once you have your teams, line up at the starting line. When the race begins, one player bends down into a frog position while the next player leap frogs over their back. That player then gets into position for the next player to leap frog. The race continues with players leapfrogging over each other to the finish line.
What games can you play outside without equipment?
Are your children saying they’re bored? Just want to get them outside and moving? Perhaps your kids have friends over or met new kids at the park or campground; whatever it may be, these games can be played outdoor without any equipment.
When playing games outdoors, it is very important to replenish energy and water in time. But when children play games with their parents outdoors or in activities organized by the school, there are various inconveniences outdoors.
At this time, we can use custom lanyards to hang our water glasses or keys, etc. Schools can also customize lanyards, on which the school name and information can be added to better manage students and ensure their safety. Order Now!
What outside games can we play?
If you have the space outside and the weather to play, why not head out and enjoy the fresh air?! This is a short list of 21 outside games, and we have even more ideas (some requiring equipment of sorts) on this epic list of field day games.
What can I play without a ball?
Fortunately, there are so many outdoor games that can be played without a ball! Beyond the games listed above, there are more outdoor field day games that don’t require a ball for game play.
What games can you play without anything?
The great thing about each of these games is that you don’t have to worry about spending hours setting them up or taking them down. With no equipment needed, all you need is a few willing participants to have a fun field day!
What games can you play without internet?
Okay, it’s time to unplug and get playing! Once you have rounded up a few teammates and found a spot to play you have no other excuse. Have fun!
Whether you’re playing, enjoying a walk in the park, sitting in the backyard, or driving a luxury car rental on the road, there’s nothing more to these games than a little energy.
Garden Courte is a blog written by [James Marcus], a passionate gardener and writer. She has been gardening for over 20 years and has a deep understanding of plants and how to care for them. In her blog, she shares her knowledge and experience with others, providing tips and advice on gardening, plant care, and more.