Different Ways to Play Hide and Seek

The traditional way to play hide and seek never gets old, but you may want a change if it is requested every day. Here are a few ways to play hide and seek with a twist while staying in the backyard.

Have the kids pick out some toys that are not too small and are allowed outside. While they cover their eyes and count, you hide the toys around the yard. You can let them run around loose and try to find them or play hot and cold if they are having a hard time. If the kids don’t understand the concept of hot and cold, you can use different words “you’re getting closer” or “you’re getting farther away.” Or give away little hints they have to figure out.

Sardines is a fun variation on hide and seek. You will need a few kids to play (at least three or four). The person who is designated as “it” does the hiding instead of the counting. Once the allotted time is up everyone has to try and find the hidden person. As each child finds the person who is hiding, instead of calling out they found them, they hide with them. This continues until all the kids are in one spot. It can get really squishy playing this game – just like in a can of sardines.

Chain hide and seek is also best if at least four children are participating. As the person who is “it” finds the other kids playing, they have to hold hands and form a chain until everyone is found. Falling down and giggling are sure to ensue as the kids try to run around while holding hands. This is a great one to play in the park. Involve all the kids in the park and see how long the chain can get.