Lovely childcare

Ideas for indoor activities, games, and group play that 5-year-olds enjoy

9 years of experience as a nursery school teacherShibata Risa
I am an active nursery school teacher with 9 years of experience. After graduating from university, I worked at a daycare center. The time I spent happily with children—playing piano, singing songs, and doing finger-play—are priceless memories to me. Currently, while raising three children of my own, I work at an after-school day service, engaging with children and providing individualized developmental support. Drawing on my diverse experiences as a childcare worker and as a mother, I hope to express and convey my thoughts through writing.

At age five, children deepen their friendships through play—cooperating with peers and becoming aware of others’ feelings—while developing social skills and teamwork.

In this article, we’re sharing indoor play ideas that are perfect for the developmental needs of five-year-olds.

We’ve gathered a wide range of activities: energetic games that get kids moving, activities that nurture thoughtful problem-solving, and simple DIY toy-making ideas that are easy to create and fun to play with.

We’re focusing on activities that encourage communication with friends during play, so use these ideas as a reference and enjoy meaningful time with the children.

Ideas for indoor activities and games, and group play that 5-year-olds enjoy (91–100)

Ball tag

[Childcare] Ball Tag #tag #nurseryteacher #outdoorplay #childcareideas #kindergarten

Ball tag

Let me introduce a tag game using a soft ball, called “Ball Oni.” Once the tagger (oni) is chosen, the tagger chases the others while holding the ball.

The tagger throws the ball at the players who are running away.

The player who gets hit by the ball becomes the next tagger and they switch roles.

Running and throwing the ball provide full-body exercise.

When playing Ball Oni, be sure to use a soft ball and explain safety rules beforehand, such as not aiming at the head or face.

If you’re in a large area, it might also be good to set boundaries for where players can run.

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In conclusion

We introduced some recommended indoor play ideas for five-year-olds. Did you find activities that match the children’s personalities and interests? New games can excite and thrill children while providing lots of stimulation, so let’s actively incorporate them. Once the children get used to the games, try adjusting the rules to make them a bit more challenging—this keeps them engaged and prevents boredom, making it highly recommended. Even indoors, it would be great to provide care and activities that allow children to feel satisfied and experience a sense of achievement.