Choosing the Right Outdoor Game for Your Family

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be hard to find time to simply relax. And getting your whole family together for some fun can be even harder. Still, one of the best ways to bond and create lasting memories is through outdoor games. Outdoor games promote physical activity, encourage teamwork, and improve family communication. They also provide great fodder for some good-natured teasing and can earn the victors all-important bragging rights. So, let’s dive into how to choose the right outdoor game for your family.

1. Think About Your Family Members’ Interests and Age Range

Before picking your activity, consider the interests and ages of your family members. Ask yourself:

• What do we enjoy? Think about what makes your group happy. Do you love athletic activities like running and jumping, is your cerebral set more into strategizing, or is it something in between—like games of skill that aren’t as physically demanding?
• What is the age range? Games that engage toddlers might not keep teenagers’ attention, and vice versa. And of course there are some great games in which even older (more mature) members of the family can participate.

Suggestions:

• Frisbee: Simple and engaging for all ages, and even the family dog can get into the action!
• Tag: A classic. Enough said.
• BounceNet: Like a game of catch or passing a volleyball, BounceNet can be a great hand-eye activity that requires little to no running around (depending on how you play). It can be a great way for teenagers, adults, and even seniors to spend some time together outside, getting some exercise and socializing.

2. Consider the Space Available

The space you have (and don’t) can significantly impact your game choice. A large backyard, a local park, or even a beach can be great places to spread out—but there are lots of things you can do in tighter confines too.

Small Spaces: If your space is limited, opt for games that require minimal setup and allow you to avoid “hazards” like flower beds and beautiful bay windows. After all, we don’t want to break anything—property, body parts, etc.

Suggestions:

• Bocce ball: A great game for the whole family, bocce requires skill but minimal athleticism. Bonus—it’s conducive to a little trash talking!
  
• Cornhole: Two boards, six bean bags. Simple enough. You don’t need much space, and you can keep one hand free for the beverage or snack of your choice.
  
• BounceNet: Small and light enough to go with you almost anywhere, you can play BounceNet whenever and wherever the mood strikes. It’s a great, low-impact way to get the family playing.

Large Spaces: Explore games that involve lots of movement and require more room. Touch football, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and Spikeball are great options. You can also alter the way you play BounceNet. String up a volleyball net and play volleyball rules with your BounceNet set, or get with a partner and play super high shots that will inevitably cause you to run…and smile…and laugh.

3. Evaluate Physical Requirements

Knowing the physical capabilities and limitations of your family members is crucial. You want a game that everyone can enjoy without feeling like they just ran a marathon (spoiler alert: you won’t find running a marathon on this list).

• Low-impact games: Consider options for family members who may have limitations, like younger kids or grandparents who have mastered the fine art of sitting.
• High-energy games: If your family thrives on competition, look for games that can burn off that energy! Just remember to keep the band-aids handy.

Suggestions:

• Capture the Flag: Great for families with older kids who can run and strategize (also an awesome game with large, extended families with similar physical abilities).
• Giant Jenga: Fun and engaging without requiring too much physical exertion. The heaviest breathing might just happen while the tower nears its tipping point.

4. Look for Inclusivity and Teamwork

The best outdoor games foster teamwork and inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels like a vital part of the activity. Look for games that encourage collaboration rather than competition, or at least make the competition as friendly as possible!

Suggestions:

• Tug of War: A classic game that builds teamwork and can result in some hilarious tumbles.
• Relay Races: Adaptable for any skill level. Just make sure to establish a “no tripping your sibling” rule upfront—trust me on this.
• BounceNet: See how many hits you can string together before the ball hits the ground (this is especially fun with more players). For added fun, make up your own rules about players hitting in a certain order or all shots having to be “overhead” shots, etc.

5. Plan for Weather and Duration

Outdoor games can be heavily influenced by the weather. Consider activities that are versatile or can be adapted based on conditions—because outdoor fun is less fun in 100+ degree heat or driving rain.

• Sunny Days: Options abound on nice, sunny days. That said, remember to apply your sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Safety first!
• Rainy Days: Some games, like scavenger hunts, can even be fun in the rain. Or if you have a slip-n-slide, pull it out and let Mother Nature do the work for you!

Suggestions:

• Water Balloon Toss: A fantastic way to cool down on a hot day—and a fun way to lean into the weather on a rainy day.

6. Make It Fun!

At the end of the day, what matters is having fun. Change up classic games by altering the rules, or make up your own game from scratch (Dad, here’s your chance to create rules that help you keep that undefeated record).

• Incorporate Themes: Consider themed days where everyone dresses up or brings props related to the game. “Pirates vs. Ninjas” tug-of-war anyone?
• Create Friendly Challenges: Set up mini-tournaments with fun prizes to keep everyone engaged. Winner gets to pick what’s for dinner—loser has to set the table and do the dishes!

Conclusion

Picking the right outdoor game for your family can enhance your time together and create wonderful memories (depending on who wins)! By considering interests, space, physical requirements, teamwork, weather, and, most importantly, fun, you can find an activity that everyone will love. So, text the family and tell them to get outside. It’s game on!

What’s your favorite outdoor game to play with family? Share your thoughts (or funny/favorite memories) in the comments below!