Make your toddler or preschooler’s party unforgettable with these 5 classic, fun, and easy-to-set-up party games. Perfect for birthdays, playdates, and family gatherings!
5 Exciting Party Games for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Planning a party for toddlers and preschoolers can be both thrilling and challenging. As a parent, you want to ensure that the celebration is memorable and filled with fun activities. Classic party games are a surefire way to keep the little ones entertained. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a holiday gathering, or just a playdate, these games have stood the test of time and are beloved by kids around the globe. Below, you’ll find five engaging games that are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, guaranteed to bring smiles and laughter to any party.
How to Host a Toddler & Preschooler Party with Fun Games
- Choose Age-Appropriate Games: Select games that toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy safely and easily.
- Prepare the Space: Clear an area large enough for running, hopping, and moving freely.
- Gather Supplies: Chairs, spoons, eggs, sacks, and small prizes or treats.
- Explain Rules Clearly: Use simple instructions and demonstrate when necessary.
- Keep the Atmosphere Light: Encourage fun over competition to make sure all kids feel included.
5 Party Games for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Musical Chairs: A Classic Favorite
How to Play:
- Setup: Arrange chairs in a circle, with one less chair than the number of players.
- Play: Start music and have kids walk around the chairs. When music stops, everyone finds a chair.
- Eliminate: The child left standing is out. Remove one chair and repeat.
- Continue: Play until one winner remains.
Musical Chairs is a timeless game that never fails to entertain. For a twist, consider using musical bobs or statues for younger toddlers. Your kids will love this game so much, they’ll want to play it at every party!
The Eggs and Spoon Race: A Fun Challenge
How to Play:
- Setup: Line up children and give each a spoon with a hard-boiled egg balanced on it.
- Race: On “go,” kids race to the finish line without dropping their egg.
- Rules: If an egg falls, the child must stop, pick it up, and continue. They may also return to the start if needed.
The Eggs and Spoon Race is exciting and tests balance and coordination. You can avoid the mess by using an egg and spoon kit, making it easier and cleaner.
The Sack Race: Jump into Fun
How to Play:
- Setup: Provide sacks for hopping. Burlap sacks or pillowcases work great. Try a sack race kit that includes medals.
- Race: Kids hop inside sacks to the finish line.
- Win: The first to cross the finish line wins.
The Sack Race brings giggles and excitement. Choose soft sack materials to protect delicate skin.
The Treasure Hunt: A Quest for Fun
How to Play:
- Setup: Hide wrapped sweets, lollipops, or small toys around the party area.
- Hunt: Give kids clues or let them freely search for treasures.
- Complexity: For older kids, create more intricate hunts with tokens or painted rocks.
Treasure hunts are universally loved and customizable to any party theme or age group. Consider adorable Treasure Hunt cards from MollyBees or free printables from Home Schools Share for added fun.
The Wheelbarrow Race: Teamwork at Its Best
How to Play:
- Setup: Form pairs. One child acts as “wheelbarrow” supporting on hands, the other as “driver.”
- Race: Driver holds legs and guides to finish line.
- Win: The first pair to finish wins.
The Wheelbarrow Race encourages teamwork and coordination, making it a fantastic addition to any party.
Final Thoughts
Party games are the heart of any children’s celebration. They not only entertain but also foster social development and coordination. Choosing the right games will ensure your party is a hit and the children leave with smiles on their faces. For more party planning ideas and to get the best game supplies, check out my Amazon affiliate link.