Here are a few quick and easy games to keep people entertained with no planning, setup or resources needed. We all need a few of these along the way! Movement games can be used just for fun, to burn off a bit of energy between other activities or on the go for a bit of entertainment while walking somewhere.

1. Earthquake, Flood, Gecko

Each command requires an action:

Earthquake = get on the floor.

Flood = Get off the floor.

Gecko = ‘Stick’ to a wall.

Shout the commands and see how quickly everyone can follow them. This can be played anywhere with no planning. It’s fun and active and can be extended with new commands.

Parents and group leaders: once you’ve taught this game you can use the commands to gain children’s attention before re-directing to another activity. It can also be a fun way to add in a short bit of movement between static tasks. I’ve even used it to maintain safety (‘Gecko’ can be quicker and more effective than a lecture when I need a child to stay near a wall, when walking near a road, for example. I just have to be certain that the child won’t dash into danger instead of away in their haste to complete the challenge).

2. Elephant Chain

Make an ‘elephant chain’ by having each person put one arm between their legs (a tail) and the other arm forwards (a trunk). Each ‘trunk’ holds onto someone else’s ‘tail’ to form a line. Challenge the elephant chain to work together to be able to walk. Swap around so everyone gets to be the leader.

More challenges:

• Walk backwards between two given points.
• Travel under something e.g. the kitchen table / between someone’s legs (choose someone tall!)
• (With several people) make an elephant chain circle.

3. Robots

All robots may only walk in a straight line, they may not turn. Encourage participants to move in a robot-like manner (e.g. rigid, mechanical arm movements, beeping noises). The robot minder (an adult or if playing with a group, a designated player or two) must gently turn the robots so they can keep moving and don’t get ‘stuck’ walking into walls or obstructions (encourage ‘malfunction’ sounds when this happens).

4. Video Game

Give commands as if you are using a remote control for a video. Players need to follow the commands.

Play = walk. (You could also use ‘Start’ if you prefer).

Pause = freeze still.

Rewind = walk backwards.

Fast forward = run.

Change channel = move in a different way.

If you enjoyed these and are looking for more quick active games, no resources required, have a look at the Active Alphabet Challenge.