In a world where technology is often the default, having some creative games to play when boredom sets in is great for children, especially in an Orlando daycare. It may seem unimportant, but through playing, children learn skills and conquer fears, furthering childhood development. In addition, play can be a great way to reduce stress – for kids and adults!
Play can also be a valuable for building relationships. Think back to your favorite childhood games – games like Jacks, Tag, Red Rover, or Red Light, Green Light. These types of games are all played with more than one child, which offers bonding opportunities.
At Kids & Company, we believe in the value of play. So in this article, we’ve round up some old school games to play with children that are worth reviving!
Listening & Looking Games
These types of games can be played almost anywhere – in the car, at the doctor’s office, or in line at the grocery store. These games are relatively quiet, quick, and require no materials.
1. Celebrity - One child thinks of a famous character from a book or movie. The other players must ask questions about the character, such as “Where does this character live?” or “What does this character enjoy doing?” until the players can guess the celebrity’s identity.
2. Telephone - One player thinks of a word or phrase and whispers it to another player, who whispers it to someone else. The game continues until the word has been shared with everyone. The last person says the word, which is usually very different than the original one.
3. The Alphabet Game - Each player attempts to find the letters of the alphabet, in order, on road signs or nearby buildings. The word must start with the letter – i.e. “Dairy Queen” could be used for D or Q.
Pretend Play
Children have always used pretend play to make sense of their world. Look around and see what your child’s interests are and offer a few props to get them started. For a child who loves animals, you can transform dishtowels into bandages and set up a stuffed animal veterinary office. Another example would be to take old clothes, shoes, and hats and create a costume box.
Active Games
Games that involve an active portion are a great physical release while teaching them social skills, like taking turns and following directions. Games like Tag or Red Light, Green Light are great examples of these games that can be played outdoors. You can also teach your child jump rope rhymes or use sidewalk chalk to make hopscotch.
These types of games can be utilized in an Orlando daycare, at home, or wherever there is fun to be had! Keep a few classic games to play with children in your parenting arsenal and your whole family can enjoy them.
Kids & Company has programs including infant care, voluntary prekindergarten (VPK), before and after school care, and summer camps. We have locations on Bumby Ave., Curry Ford Rd. and Chickasaw Tr. in Orlando, FL to suite your family’s needs. For more information about our facility or programs, contact us online or give us a call at (407) 277-1015.