This is a fun variation of "pass the parcel" which is suitable
for even the youngest kids, and it has the advantage of not needing any prizes!
You will need to supervise the dressing up carefully and make sure that all the
children get a go by carefully manipulating where the music stops!
Age: 3+
Preparation:
Fill a large bag or basket with dressing up clothes, old hats
and scarves, odd socks and boots, etc. If you can include some joke items such
as fake ears and plastic spectacles the children will enjoy the game even more.
Play:
Form the children into a circle and give the bag to the birthday child. Put some
cheerful music on. While the music plays, the children pass the bag around the
circle. When the music stops, whoever is holding the bag must reach in and pull
out one article of clothing (make sure they choose quickly without looking!) and
put it on.
If you have a large number of children, or younger children, you will enjoy the
game more with two bags circulating simultaneously (and they will be lighter for
the children to manage).
Variations:
Adapt this for older kids or slumber parties by including some
nicer accessories, which will become one of the "going away" presents - perhaps
a necklace, badge or cap. Throw in a couple of booby prizes too!
Call My Bluff
This is a fun word game (made famous by the TV show) which can
help children to learn new words, practise dictionary work and presentation
skills! It works best in a classroom or large group setting, and you will need
time to prepare.
Make A Ping Pong Bat And Net
The Chinese introduced table tennis to the world and have always been extremely
good at the sport. You can make your own ping pong bats and net and have a go!
Make A Name Book
More of a craft activity than a game, this is a great way for kids to get to
know each other at the beginning of the school year.
Fishing (Tiu-u or Chinese Dominoes) This game of Chinese dominoes sounds a little complicated to
begin with but is in fact very simple to play. The name ‘fishing’ comes from
the idea that players ‘fish’ for matching dominoes. You can either print out
our dominoes or make your own more authentic version with popsicle sticks
(instructions included!)
Matching Game cards can be used to play Memory
(Concentration), Go Fish and many other card games, as well as played with
our sorting mats by one child on their own. Printable Games
