[For Kids] Fun Indoor Game Ideas for After-School Day Services

Rhythm 4

[Introduction to the Game] Rhythm 4 Game [Basics]

This is a game that tests your ability to listen to instructions and make decisions by calling out your own name in time with a 4-beat rhythm.

You advance through the four counts using actions like tapping the desk or clapping, so the overlap of sound and movement adds to the fun.

You need to listen carefully to which person the previous player called and on which number, then decide and act accordingly.

By adding variations—such as changing the actions for each number or introducing instructions that aren’t just names and numbers—you can enjoy the game at a higher difficulty level, which is recommended for those who’ve gotten the hang of it.

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kappamaki

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Butt tag

When we think of tag, we usually imagine running around as fast as we can, but this is a more relaxed version you can enjoy at an easier pace.

The basic rules are the same as regular tag, but the way you flee and chase is different.

Both the runners and the chaser (the “it”) move forward while sitting with their knees up, using only their bottoms and arms.

You must never stand up! Anyone tagged by “it” becomes the next chaser.

To make it clear who’s “it,” it might be good for that person to wear something noticeable like a hat or a sash.

Since foot speed doesn’t matter here, people can play together regardless of differences in physical ability!

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SAKI

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Strikeout

A fun “struck-out” game that helps kids develop both physical movement and thinking skills.

It lets them practice judging distance to the target and supports physical development.

Another advantage is that, through “struck-out,” they can enjoyably improve motor skills and cognitive functions.

Playing with friends or adults also cultivates teamwork and a spirit of helping one another.

You can make a “struck-out” set using familiar materials, so try crafting one by hand to suit your children’s developmental stage!

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kepiko

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Wiggly Tail Tag

We’d like to introduce a wiggly tail-tag game that also requires some clever footwork while running.

Use triangular red cones or blocks to create a winding path.

When players face each other, the person closer to the winding path is the runner, and the one farther away is the chaser.

Once they’re facing off, if the runner taps the chaser’s hand, the runner starts escaping along the winding path.

Because the path twists and turns, it’s hard to predict how the tail will move—that’s the key point.

It’s fun to focus, watch the tail’s movement, and think about the timing to grab it.

Once you get used to it, you can make the winding path longer to increase the running distance and make the game even more exciting.

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mayumi

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Greeting game

[Japanese Activity] Greeting Game / [Aisatsu Game] Greetings, Bowing #1

Let’s greet according to the time of day! Here are some greeting game ideas.

These fun activities help you learn greetings suited to different times and cultures in a game-like way.

Walk around to music, and when the music stops, look at the illustration the teacher shows and say the appropriate greeting for that time of day—this helps develop decision-making skills! You can also incorporate greetings from other cultures, such as the United States and France, to learn greetings from around the world and expand your vocabulary.

Give it a try!

Go! Go! Gold Medal

[Untokodokkoi Sports Day 29] Go! Go! Gold Medal!

Let’s enjoy a parent-and-child exercise together! Here are some GO! GO! Gold Medal ideas.

This activity is a fun workout where you move your body to music using small hoop-like items.

You can make the rings from everyday materials, like cutting them out of newspaper or paper plates.

Since it’s themed around gold medals, finishing them with gold holographic tape would be great.

Facing each other and making eye contact, as well as physical touch, can deepen your bond even more.

indoor hockey game

Introducing a super popular “Hockey Game” for kids! A play activity that seriously boosts motor skills! Highly recommended as an indoor physical activity for preschoolers through elementary schoolers. #recreation #lifewithkids #gymnastics #PE

Kids are guaranteed to be hooked! Here’s an indoor hockey game idea.

Hockey, which was a big hit at the Olympics, is played with sticks and a hockey ball.

This time, let’s try an indoor version you can enjoy at home.

All you need are marker cones.

Set up two red and two blue marker cones facing each other as goals, then use another color of marker cone as the “ball.” Slide it along the floor and aim for the goal—game on!