[For Kids] Have Fun at After-School Day Service! A Special Feature on Indoor Game Ideas

Dictation Rock-Paper-Scissors

Indoor Games Recommended by After-School Care Teachers ② [Rainy Day]

Here’s an idea for a writing-based rock-paper-scissors game you can play during rainy-day breaks or in spare moments.

Normally, with rock-paper-scissors, you battle by showing rock, scissors, or paper with your hands.

This time, you’ll complete a kanji while playing.

First, choose a theme kanji, then play rock-paper-scissors.

The winner writes one stroke of the theme kanji on paper.

Repeat this, and the first person to complete the kanji wins!

Stick-pulling sumo

Here’s an idea for a sumo-style game using a stick.

You’ll need a pool cue, a mat, and a platform.

It’s a fun game that builds strength and balance! Two players hold a single pool cue and pull against each other, trying to either make the opponent step off the platform or let go of the stick.

It also helps develop patience through focused, physical competition.

Since the game starts with the mat and platform setup, it’s a great activity for after-school day services.

Kids can have fun while boosting their fitness and competitive spirit.

Mixed-age dodgeball

A scene of growth in dodgeball with the older and middle classes: “Passing on the play”

Let’s nurture compassion and cooperation! Here are ideas for mixed-age dodgeball.

Younger kids are often curious about and admire the games older kids play, right? This idea is perfect for situations commonly seen in after-school programs! When children of different ages play together, older kids can demonstrate leadership, and younger kids can learn the importance of helping one another.

Emphasizing teamwork, with rules and flow designed so everyone can have fun, will also help improve communication skills through the game.

By playing, children naturally develop the ability to cooperate and deepen their bonds with their peers.

Touch-in game

Let’s develop tracking skills and a sense of force! Here are some ideas for a touch-in game.

These are perfect for nurturing visual concentration and control of force.

Children can aim to improve their physical abilities while having fun by keeping a balloon from falling and collecting colored balls from the floor into a basket.

Simple yet effective for building concentration, this idea lets kids play by controlling balloons and colored balls—making it a fun game that can be used in after-school day services!