When you think of summer, do you picture kids glued to screens—or running barefoot through the grass, laughing and chasing each other until sunset? This summer, let’s bring back the magic of simple, old-school games! These timeless activities don’t need fancy equipment or complicated rules—just a little imagination and a lot of energy.

In this post, you’ll find 15 classic outdoor games that are perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you’re planning a backyard party, a neighborhood playdate, or just want some screen-free summer fun, these ideas will spark big smiles and even bigger memories. Let’s dive into the best old school games for kids and get ready for the most unforgettable summer yet!

Why Old-School Games Are Perfect for Summer

Old-school games bring a sense of nostalgia, simplicity, and pure fun that’s perfect for summertime. With long, sunny days and plenty of opportunities to play outside, these classic games encourage kids to be active, creative, and social—without needing screens or fancy equipment.

Here’s why they’re such a great fit for summer:

  • Unplugged Fun – No batteries or Wi-Fi required—just imagination and energy.

  • Easy to Set Up – Most games need little or no equipment.

  • Budget-Friendly – Free or super low-cost entertainment.

  • Anywhere Play – Perfect for backyards, parks, beaches, or campsites.

  • Memory-Making Magic – Creates joyful, lasting memories with friends and family.

Whether it’s hopscotch, freeze tag, or jump rope, these games never go out of style—and they’re the perfect way to fill summer with laughter and movement.

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16 Old-School Games to Teach Your Kids This Summer

1. Red Rover

How to play: Split into two teams. Players hold hands in a line and call for someone from the opposite team to run and try to break through their linked arms.
Tip for making it safe and fun: Use soft grass and encourage gentle play. Reinforce the idea that the fun is in the challenge, not the collision.

2. Capture the Flag

Best for large groups: It’s more exciting with teams of 5 or more.
Great for parks and open fields: Ideal for open spaces with lots of running room. Mark boundaries clearly and set clear “jail” zones.

3. Kick the Can

A mix of hide-and-seek and tag: One person guards the can while others hide and try to kick it before being tagged. This is really fun to play at night. 
Perfect for neighborhood groups: Works great around porches, trees, and yards where hiding spots abound.

4. Hopscotch

Chalk + sidewalk = instant fun: Draw a traditional grid or let kids invent their own patterns.
Creative ways to make new hopscotch challenges: Try silly rules like hopping backward, one-foot-only, or themed boards like animals or numbers in different languages.

5. Duck Duck Goose

Classic circle game for younger kids: Simple and hilarious fun—great for ages 3-7.
Tip: Remind players to walk, not run, if space is tight to avoid slips or falls.

6. Freeze Tag

Endless laughs, endless running: One player tags others to freeze them—teammates can unfreeze with a tap.
Variations: Try Shadow Tag (step on the shadow), TV Tag (say a TV show to unfreeze), or Freeze Dance (play with music!).

7. Four Square

Easy driveway game with just a ball and chalk: Number each square 1–4 and rotate when a player is out.
Fun twist: Add rules like “double bounce” or “no hands” rounds to keep it fresh.

8. Marbles

Teach kids this nostalgic sidewalk game: Players try to knock marbles out of a circle using a “shooter.”
Simple starter rules: Start with 5–10 marbles in a ring and take turns aiming with your shooter marble.

9. Jump Rope Games

Double Dutch, rhymes, solo tricks: Great for coordination and rhythm.
Pro tip: Use sidewalk chalk to write out jump rope rhymes, or turn it into a group challenge.

10. Mother May I?

Perfect for small groups: One “mother” gives movement commands, and players must remember to ask “Mother May I?” before moving.
Teaches listening skills too! Great for patience, memory, and impulse control.

11. Simon Says

Indoors or outdoors: A great game when it’s too hot or raining.
Add silly summer-themed actions: Like “Simon says jump like a frog” or “pretend to swim.”

12. Hide and Seek

Endless versions: Try Sardines (one hides, others squeeze in) or flashlight hide-and-seek after sunset for older kids.
Safety tip: Set boundaries and time limits to keep everyone accounted for.

13. Hula Hooping

Physical and fun—host mini contests!: See who can hula the longest or add arm/leg hooping for a twist.
Great energy burner: Plus, it improves coordination and balance.

14. Sack Races

Great for family BBQs or birthday parties: Put on some sacks, Line kids up, hop to the finish line, and cheer each other on.
Tips for making DIY burlap sacks: Old pillowcases or trash bags can work in a pinch (add a layer of duct tape to the bottom for durability).

15. Tug of War

Teams + one strong rope = epic summer memories: Mark a center line and a victory line on each side—first team to pull the knot past the line wins!
Make it safer: Use a soft surface like grass and encourage teamwork, not brute strength.

16. Jackpot

Fun tossing game using a football or ball: One person throws the ball and calls out a point value; others try to catch it to “win.”
Variation: Try “Mystery Jackpot” where only the thrower knows the points until after the catch.

Tips to Keep the Games Fresh All Summer

Even the best games can get old if played the same way every time. Here are a few fun and easy ways to keep things exciting all summer long:

  • Rotate games weekly
    Switch up the lineup every week to keep kids curious and excited. You can even let them vote on which game to play next!

  • Create summer challenge lists
    Make a checklist of games to complete throughout the summer. Add fun milestones like “Play 5 games barefoot” or “Win three rounds of tag.”

  • Make fun prizes or certificates
    Celebrate participation with small prizes or printable certificates for things like “Best Team Spirit” or “Fastest Runner.” It adds motivation and a sense of achievement.

  • Involve neighbors or siblings for bigger teams
    The more, the merrier! Invite other families or neighborhood kids to join in. Bigger teams can make games like Red Rover and Capture the Flag even more fun.

Supplies Checklist for Classic Summer Games

You don’t need fancy equipment to have a summer full of fun! Here’s a quick list of simple, budget-friendly items that will cover most old-school games:

  • Chalk
    Perfect for hopscotch, four square, or drawing creative obstacle courses on the sidewalk or driveway.

  • Hula hoops
    Use hula hoops for classic hooping contests or creative relay games that involve spinning and racing.

  • Rope
    Rope is a must-have for tug of war, sack races (tied burlap), or even as a finish line in footraces.

  • Cones or markers
    Great for setting boundaries, marking goals, or dividing teams—plastic cups work in a pinch!

  • Kickballs, jump ropes, and buckets
    Kickballs work for four square or dodgeball-style games. Jump ropes offer endless solo or group play, and buckets can be used for water games or as fun props for obstacle courses.

Looking for more Summer fun? Checkout the Ultimate Summer Survival Kit

What Old School Games are You Going to Play this Summer?

This summer, invite your kids to unplug from screens and rediscover the simple joy of old school games for kids. These classic games for families bring back memories, build friendships, and create moments your kids will treasure—just like you did. From outdoor summer games in the yard to sidewalk chalk tournaments with the neighbors, there’s endless fun waiting right outside your door.

What was your favorite childhood summer game? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear your favorites and maybe even add a few more to our list!