Color Square Game

The Guide

1. Create a square on the ground: The square should have a different color on each side. We like using sidewalk chalk (cheap and washes away nicely) but you can also use colored tape or various objects (e.g. leaves, pine cones, sticks, and small rocks) if you’re on grass. Make the square big enough for all of the children playing to stand on any one side of the square (with a little room to wiggle before they bug their buddies).
2. Start them off: Say something like, "All explorers on red!" Kids should run to the red line. Then, shout out "All explorers on green!" Accordingly, kids should run to the green line. Repeat this for each of the four colors/patterns until kids seem to get the hang of it. Next, introduce, "All explorers on rainbow!" See what kids do (always fun to see how they try to figure it out). Then, tell them that the "rainbow" command means move to the center. For younger children, just listening and following these five basic directions will be challenging and fun.
3. Add some twists for those who are ready:
   • Repeat the same color—Repeat the command that you just gave, and you'll see kids bodies move before their minds catch up with them...testing this is a great way to boost self control!
   • Split by gender—Shout out clues that are just for girls or just for boys.
   • Give clues about the colors—Rather than say, "All explorers on green" say, "All explorers on the color of the grass" or "All explorers on the color of the frogs."
   • Give clues about participants—Include some personal information about the kids. For example, "All explorers who like pizza on yellow!"
   • Change up the way kids move—Change the method of travel to the next spot in your directions to add cognitive and physical challenge. For example, "Explorers, hop to yellow." or "Girls, march to red."
4. Step back and let the kids go: As soon as kids get the game, they will LOVE the chance to give them commands. In fact, you’ll likely be out of a job.