Best Party Games for Kids

Photo: iStock.com/ktmoffitt

A party just isn’t a party without a few games in the mix. That’s true for people of all ages, but when you’re planning a little get-together for the kids, it’s especially important to make sure that there’s plenty of engaging entertainment. You can make the most of your next gathering by considering a few of these party games for kids.

Classic Games

Musical Chairs

What better way to get everyone laughing and in the spirit of the moment than by playing a lively game of musical chairs? A true favorite, this game is simple to play. Count the number of kids playing the game, then arrange that many chairs (minus one) in a circle facing outward. Begin playing music while everyone walks in a circle around the chairs. When the music stops, everyone must quickly be seated. The person left standing is out. Remove one chair to begin the next round until there is only a single person left standing.

Musical chairs is a classic kids game to play at parties

Sack Races

Hosting a good old-fashioned sack race is not just a fun way to excite the kids, but also an easy way to take the party outside for a while. A little fresh air will do everyone some good! You don’t need to invest in burlap sacks to play this game. A stack of old, large pillowcases will suffice beautifully. To play, each member simply steps inside the sack. When you shout “go,” that’s their cue to hop to the finish line. Whoever reaches it first is the big winner!

Let’s Limbo

Limbo is one of those children’s party games that’s just a plain goofy way to have an enjoyable time, listen to some music, and pit the kids against each other, all in the spirit of good fun. All you need is a long stick to play—a broomstick will do just fine. One person holds one end while another holds the other. Playing some music in the background sets the tone and may add a little rhythm to everyone’s movements. As the stick is held parallel to the ground, the contestant passes beneath the bar while leaning backward as needed. The stick is lowered by an inch or so after everyone has gone under it at least once.

Unique Games

The Missing Piece

Here’s a children’s party game that is both educational and fun! Consider it a live version of memory. To play, pile a selection of items in the center of a table. Have all the kids look at everything for at least a minute. Encourage them to take in the details of each item so that they don’t forget anything. Then have them close their eyes while you remove one item. Allow each child two guesses to figure out which item is no longer there. The game continues until everyone has a turn to play.

Sticky Tag

Tag is among the most popular party games for kids, but adding a “sticky” element puts a fun twist on the concept. To play, assign one person to be “sticky,” or “it.” That person must chase everyone else and try to catch at least one other person. The person who is caught is then “stuck” to the other person; they’ll join hands and run after the other kids. The game continues as more and more people become sticky chasers, until there is just one child left.

Sticky Tag - fun kids game to play at parties

At the Museum

It’s tough for kids to sit still, especially at a party. But this is one occasion when they’ll actually want to remain motionless — if they want to win the game, that is! Playing this game involves some imagination. The kids must freeze as if they’re exhibits in a museum while one child acts as the guard. The guard turns and closes his eyes while the exhibits spring to life and move around. As soon as the guard turns back around, the exhibits must freeze again. Anyone who continues to move is out. The game ends when there’s only a single child left!