Indoor recreation for children: A roundup of exciting games
We’ve put together recreational activities, games, and indoor play ideas that bring out children’s smiles.
You’ll find plenty of large-group games and activities perfect for preschools and schools, as well as lots of options families can enjoy at home.
They’re ideal for rainy days or any time it’s hard to go outside.
If you’re looking for recreations, games, or indoor activities to enjoy with kids, be sure to check these out.
Even if kids start out feeling, “It’s a shame we can’t play outside…,” by the end they’ll surely be saying, “That was fun!”
- Play ideas kids can enjoy from 1st to 6th grade [indoors & outdoors]
- [Play Right Away!] Exciting Recreation Games Recommended for Elementary School Students
- [Elementary School] Quick and Easy! Indoor Recreational Activities Perfect for Lower Grades
- Popularity ranking of recreational activities for children
- [Children’s Club] Easy and fun indoor games. Exciting party games
- [For Kids] Today's Recommended Recreation Idea Collection
- Recommended for upper elementary grades! Exciting indoor recreation and games
- [For Kids] Indoor Fun! Large-Group Recreational Activities and Games
- A big hit at after-school childcare! A special feature on group games and activities you can play without any equipment
- Elementary School Fun Day a Big Hit! Indoor Game Idea Collection
- [For Kids] Fun Indoor Game Ideas for After-School Day Services
- Indoor games and recreational activities recommended for daycare and kindergarten
- Indoor Games for Small Groups: Exciting Recreational Activities
Indoor recreation for children: A roundup of exciting games (161–170)
Exercise play using balloons
Let’s try playing with a variety of movements using a parachute (paraballoon)! For example, place crumpled newspaper or paper balls on top of the parachute and shake it to bounce them around—this move is called “popcorn.” You can also dash under the parachute while the teacher lifts it up, or crawl under it when it’s laid flat on the ground—those sound fun too.
Rather than deciding on a specific activity, start by freely touching and exploring the parachute.
For these kinds of games, a mini-sized parachute is recommended.
Boccia
Boccia is a game where you throw balls and try to land them in high-scoring zones.
When you run it at the nursery’s summer festival, using beanbags makes it safe—even if one accidentally hits a friend, there’s little risk of injury.
It’s a simple game, but tossing into the target spot is surprisingly tricky.
You can make it more fun by adjusting the rules—like giving participation prizes to infants and prizes based on points for preschoolers.
Let’s have parents, teachers, and friends all cheer the children on.
We can’t wait to see their smiles when they land a throw exactly where they aimed.
Who is the leader?
Here’s an introduction to a body expression game called “Who’s the Leader?” Each child will need one hula hoop, so please prepare them in advance.
A leader—either a teacher or a child—stands at the front, and the other children line up, each standing inside their hula hoop.
After the cue “Ready, go!”, everyone jumps either to the left or to the right within their hoop.
If a child jumps in the same direction as the leader, say “Correct!” and give a round of applause.
It’s also fun to have the children face away from the leader and leave it entirely to luck.
Try different variations and enjoy playing!
Photo guessing quiz
How about having everyone bring a childhood photo and enjoying a photo-matching quiz? Some people probably haven’t changed much, while others might look completely different from when they were little.
If childhood photos feel a bit embarrassing, baby photos are fine too.
It makes the game harder, but maybe even more fun.
You could also create multiple-choice options.
If you can match someone from their baby photo, that’s impressive! Try guessing from the eyes or the feel of their smile.
Treasure Hunt Game
A treasure hunt game is an indoor activity that children can enjoy together with their preschool teachers.
After confirming the room is safe, hide items that children will love so they can freely explore.
By searching for and finding the treasures, they can experience fun and a sense of accomplishment.
Watching them wander around looking here and there is heartwarming.
If they’re struggling and say, “I can’t find it!” the teacher should offer support and search together with them.
A treasure hunt game is a charming activity that can be enjoyed with childcare workers.
Sinking Game
The Sinking Game is a fun game where you can feel the thrill of “the ship might sink!” Place several mats randomly around a large space like a hall or gym.
These mats are the ships, so divide the children into groups and have them stand on the mats.
The teacher becomes a scary shark living in the sea.
When the shark (the teacher) calls out, “We’re sinking!”, the children must get off their current ship (mat) and move to a different ship (mat).
If the shark tags them while they’re moving, they’re out! If they can move to another ship without getting caught, they’re safe.
Try mixing in other words that start with the same sound as “chinbotsu” instead of saying “We’re sinking!” to make it even more fun!
Making a balloon helicopter
This is a balloon helicopter that you play with by attaching a handmade propeller to an inflated balloon! Attach a propeller made from a straw and origami to the mouth of the inflated balloon.
Then just let go of the balloon! The escaping air spins the propeller and lifts the balloon into the air.
Making the propeller and inflating the balloon may be a bit difficult for small children.
That’s why it’s perfect as an activity to enjoy together with a parent or guardian! It’s fun not only indoors but also in open spaces like parks where you can launch it and watch it fly.
