Games and activities to enjoy on Children’s Day, including crafts
May 5 is Children’s Day.
It used to be called Tango no Sekku (the Boys’ Festival), but in recent years it has become widely recognized as Children’s Day, a day to wish for children’s healthy growth.
It’s still often seen as a celebration for boys, but in fact it’s a day to celebrate all children regardless of gender and to thank mothers who gave birth to them.
In this article, we introduce play ideas and recreation games perfect for Children’s Day.
We’ve gathered many games related to Children’s Day and koinobori (carp streamers).
Please feel free to use these ideas at home or when celebrating in early childhood settings and give them a try!
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- [Childcare] Games and performances that liven up Children's Day
- [Children’s Day] Ideas for DIY carp streamers
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- Recommended games for Children's Day, including party games that really liven things up
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- Recommended for Children's Day! DIY samurai helmet ideas [May 5]
- [For Kids] Today’s Handmade Craft Ideas
- [Parent-Child Rec] Recreational activities and games for parents and children to enjoy together—also great for sports days.
- Fun games for kids in Kansai. Recreation games
- [For Kids] Let’s Play in English! A Collection of Fun Recreational Activities and Games
- [For Kids] Easy Origami Ideas to Enjoy in May
Games and activities to enjoy on Children's Day. Craft activities too (41–50)
Making Koinobori Hanging Decorations
This is an irresistibly cute hanging carp streamer decoration! When we hear about hanging carp streamers, we tend to picture the grand ones you see in public squares or at schools, but this one is a charming miniature—small enough to fit in a single cup and perfect for displaying on a desk or study table.
You can make it creatively with everyday materials like origami paper and straws that are easy to gather.
Feel free to use any colors and designs you like, and craft your own carp streamers more freely, boldly, and adorably!
Games and activities to enjoy on Children's Day, including crafts (51–60)
Bingo game
Bingo, a staple at events and parties, is also a great game to enjoy at home on Children’s Day.
If you prepare prizes like foods associated with Boys’ Festival and your kids’ favorite sweets, they’ll get to feel the special spirit of the day.
These days, you can even find packs of bingo cards at 100-yen shops, making preparation easy, which is a nice bonus.
It’s a well-known game with simple rules that can excite everyone from children to adults.
Go for it! Takino-bori!
“Why are the carp streamers swimming in the sky?” A puppet show is a great way to answer this simple question children often ask! It’s said that the carp streamers that swim in the sky are inspired by a Chinese legend: a carp that climbed a raging waterfall transformed into a dragon and ascended to the heavens.
With the message, “Even a little carp worked hard and made it up the waterfall, so let’s all try taking on new challenges,” why not put on a play using handmade puppets and props for children who are about to experience many things?
In conclusion
We introduced games and recreational activities you can enjoy on Children’s Day.
From games that let you make the most of the day to unique craft activities, there are plenty of ideas parents and kids can enjoy together.
Because Children’s Day comes just once a year, be sure to make the most of it with special activities that will become lasting memories.
It’s sure to be a wonderful day filled with children’s smiles.