Old-time play: fun children's games
Kids are geniuses at play, aren’t they? They can have a great time even in open spaces without playground equipment, and they come up with ways to play with toys that adults would never imagine! Of course, kids today are creative too, but back in the days before smartphones and game consoles, children played in even more inventive ways.
Many of those old-fashioned games are still fun for kids today.
In this article, we’ve gathered lots of classic, enjoyable games from the past.
We’re also introducing plenty of activities you can try right away, so be sure to check them out!
- Nostalgic games that were popular when we were kids
- Fun Indoor Games for Elementary School Kids Without Any Equipment
- Recommended outdoor games you can enjoy without any equipment
- [Let’s Make and Play!] Handmade Toy Ideas You Can Create Yourself
- [Children’s Club] Easy and fun indoor games. Exciting party games
- A special feature on nostalgic toys and the trends we craved as kids—loads of the things we wanted back then are here!
- [Active Outdoors!] A roundup of garden games you can enjoy with your kids
- [Make with Kids] Handmade Outdoor Play Toy Special
- [For Kids] Today’s Handmade Craft Ideas
- [For Kids] Today's Recommended Recreation Idea Collection
- [List] A roundup of games and recreational activities kids love
- [Play Right Away!] Exciting Recreation Games Recommended for Elementary School Students
- Elementary School Fun Day a Big Hit! Indoor Game Idea Collection
Old-time games. Fun children's games (31–40)
Back Telephone (a game like “Chinese whispers” played by tracing on someone’s back)

A communication-based game that sparks laughter and surprise: the Back-to-Back Drawing Telephone Game.
A few people line up in a single file.
The person at the front looks at a picture on a sheet of paper and traces it with a finger on the back of the next person to pass it along.
Each person continues the same way in turn, and the last person draws the picture on a whiteboard or similar so everyone can compare the result.
The more accurate the transmitted drawing is, the more surprising it is; if it turns into a completely different picture, it leads to big laughs.
Differences in drawing ability and perception stand out, and the unexpected twists are sure to energize the group.
The rules are simple, it requires minimal materials, and it can be enjoyed in classrooms or indoors.
It’s a game where communication and imagination are put to the test, and the unpredictable ending is part of the fun.
Tamaire Hoop Rock-Paper-Scissors

Using items makes it even more exciting! Here’s an idea for a Ball-Toss Hoop Rock-Paper-Scissors game.
When you hear “ball toss,” many people probably think of the equipment used at sports days.
This time, let’s try a version you can easily set up indoors.
All you need are some colored balls and small hula hoops.
As an introduction to the game, it’s a good idea to first give players time to freely toss balls into the hoops.
Ultimately, the activity evolves so that the person who wins rock-paper-scissors within each group gets the role of throwing the balls into the hoop.
Feel free to adapt and arrange the game as you like.
Kendama Fencing

Let’s play by arranging the game! Here’s an idea for Kendama Fencing.
Fencing is a sport that originated from medieval European chivalry, where two athletes face off one-on-one using swords, right? This time, let’s use kendamas instead of swords.
Split into two teams and keep a distance of about five meters between them.
Choose one player from each team, and have them aim for the opposing team’s side while balancing the ball on the kendama’s cup.
The rule is: when they pass by each other, the player who knocks the opponent’s ball off with their hand advances.
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.
high-jump-style rubber jumping

Let’s get into classic Showa-era games! Here’s an idea for rubber jumping, similar to high jump.
Rubber jumping is the game where you hook a rubber band around your legs, stretch it, and jump over it alternately.
It seems to have been popular mainly among girls during the Showa period.
What you need is flat elastic.
Start with the height at your ankles.
As you get used to it, raise it to your calves, knees, thighs, and then your waist.
If you practice every day, your athletic ability will improve, and you’ll likely be able to clear higher levels over time.


