5 Party Games to Play with Toddlers

1. Parachute

Often played at daycares or preschools, this game is best with more than two people. Spread out a large sheet (or a parachute if you have it!) and have everyone hold an edge tightly in both hands. Play the Parachute Song, the little ones will follow the music, raise it overhead and say “Up, up, up!” then lower it saying “Down, down, down!” When you call “Under, under, under!” everyone can let go of the sheet and hurry under. Alternatively, you can include a ball and put in on the parachute, tell the kids not to let the ball drop out. This makes the kids very excited seeing the ball “jumping” up & down! This game helps kids develop their fine motor skills while teaching them to wait and listen.

2. Simon Says

A game that you can play one on one or with a group of kids, Simon Says is a classic that teaches kids how to follow instructions. The rules are easy: You are Simon and what you say goes. Call out commands— “Simon says touch your toes! —and your kid has to follow them. It’s key they listen for the words “Simon says”—if you call out a command like “Jump up!” without prefacing with Simon says, players can be eliminated. Be sure to throw in some funny commands, too—do a silly dance, wiggle your ears, hop like a frog! This game is great for teaching toddlers the names for their body parts.

3. Freeze Dancing

Choose some of your kids’ favourite tunes and turn up the volume. Ask them to dance until the music stops. When it does, they have to freeze in whatever position they find themselves in – even if they have one leg up. Great for bonding with parents, as the little ones can dance together with them!

4. Scavenger Hunt

Is there anything more fun than a scavenger hunt? Send your toddler hunting for objects around the house based on commands, such as “find me something round” or “find me something red.” It works well when the parents are present, so the kids can get the items from the adults.

5. Pass the Parcel

Use some old paper to wrap up a few of your child’s favourite toys (don’t use too much sticky tape). Play the music, the kiddos will pass the parcel around. When the music stops, whoever is holding on to the parcel gets to unwrap 1 layer. Ask them to guess what’s inside – is it Teddy? Or Dolly? Or Panda? They will enjoy the surprise of finding out.