[List] A roundup of games and recreational activities kids love
Here’s an article that rounds up games kids absolutely love!
If you’ve ever thought, “A bunch of kids are here—what should we have them do?” or “We always end up doing the same things and it’s getting stale,” this might be helpful.
We’ve included both outdoor and indoor activities, so you can decide based on the weather.
We’re also featuring classic games that have long been beloved in Japan—adults might find them nostalgic, too.
Above all, this is a collection of ideas chosen with the hope that everyone will have a great time!
- Play ideas kids can enjoy from 1st to 6th grade [indoors & outdoors]
- [For Kids] Today's Recommended Recreation Idea Collection
- [Elementary School] Quick and Easy! Indoor Recreational Activities Perfect for Lower Grades
- Recommended for upper elementary grades! Exciting indoor recreation and games
- Popularity ranking of recreational activities for children
- [Children’s Club] Easy and fun indoor games. Exciting party games
- [For Kids] Indoor Games and Activities Recommended for Winter Break
- Nostalgic games that were popular when we were kids
- [Play Right Away!] Exciting Recreation Games Recommended for Elementary School Students
- A big hit at after-school childcare! A special feature on group games and activities you can play without any equipment
- [For Kids] Outdoor Recreation Games: Fun Outdoor Play
- Indoor recreation for children: A roundup of exciting games
- [Elementary School Rec] Recommended Games and Performances for a Fun Party
[List] A Compilation of Games and Recreational Activities Kids Love (61–70)
Safe baseball

Let’s play using soft materials! Here’s a safe baseball idea.
When you think of baseball, you probably imagine wooden or metal bats and cork-filled balls.
But when playing with preschoolers or kids who aren’t familiar with baseball, how about enjoying the game with soft equipment? Use a pool noodle cut in half as the bat, and a ball made by crumpling newspaper.
Give it a try!
Indoor basketball hoop craft

Let’s play with a handmade basketball set! Here are some ideas for crafting an indoor basketball hoop.
After watching Olympic basketball, many kids probably started admiring the players, right? This time, let’s try making an indoor basketball game you can build and play with.
You’ll need two hangers, yarn, cardboard, scissors, and more.
It’s great because the steps are simple.
This is also a recommended idea for when you want to get moving indoors!
Target shooting

Fun for toddlers and up! Here are some ideas for a target-shooting game.
Among Olympic sports, there’s shooting, where competitors use firearms to hit targets and compete for accuracy.
This time, let’s play a similar game that focuses on aiming at targets.
You’ll need straws, rubber bands, origami paper, tape, masking tape, scissors, glue, and a toilet paper roll.
Using a toy “gun” made from the toilet paper roll, the simple rule is to knock down the targets.
It’s great because everyone—from toddlers to adults—can enjoy it together.
Rin-rin hammer made from scrap materials

Let’s try playing with a jingling hammer made from scrap materials.
Although its shape is completely different from a hammer throw implement, it would be great if guardians could explain the rules and key points of hammer throw to children.
When throwing, make sure to create a safe environment where it won’t hit furniture or people before giving it a try.
A gymnasium or an open field would allow you to practice with peace of mind.
Another advantage is that it makes a jingling sound when thrown, making it easy to tell where it landed.
Be sure to give it a try!
Fluffy Tennis Using Scrap Materials

Here’s an idea for fluffy tennis using recycled materials.
Tennis usually involves a racket and a ball, but this time let’s try tennis using a plastic bottle and a bag! You’ll need a plastic bottle, a bag, stickers, a pen, and masking tape.
Draw your favorite illustrations on the bag, then fill it with air.
Decorating the plastic bottle freely with masking tape and stickers will get everyone excited.
Work together to keep the softly floating bag from falling.
Growth Janken

Grow bigger when you win at rock-paper-scissors! Here’s an idea for a Growth Rock-Paper-Scissors game.
Start in a crawling pose like a baby! Each time you win, you “grow”: from a crouching child to a standing adult.
You can play one-on-one, of course, but it’s also great fun with a large group.
To keep it fresh, try tweaking the pose you strike when you level up, or set rules like not playing rock-paper-scissors with the same person consecutively.
That way, everyone can enjoy it without getting bored!
Territory-Janken

Let’s move our bodies and play! Here’s an idea for a territory-taking rock-paper-scissors game.
Two players face off; if you win, take three steps forward, and if it’s a tie, both take one step, racing toward the goal.
It’s fun to see each person get creative—taking big strides or making big jumps to move ahead! You can also customize the rock-paper-scissors itself, like using your whole body for “body rock-paper-scissors” or using your feet for “foot rock-paper-scissors.” It’s a great way to have fun while inventing ideas together with the kids.


