Easy Outdoor Movement Games for the Garden
Simple garden games that get the whole family running, kicking and throwing — plus tips for setting up an outdoor activity circuit.
Fresh air and open space make the garden a perfect place for active play. You don’t need a big lawn or lots of equipment — a few well-chosen pieces can turn any garden, patio or park into a place for running, kicking and throwing games the whole family can join in with.
Five garden games to try
- Mini football shoot-outSet up a pop-up football goal and take turns shooting from different distances. Move the shooting spot further back as your child’s kicking gets stronger.
- Ring toss tournamentA wooden ring toss game is great for all ages. Add up the numbers on each peg, play best of three, or let younger children stand closer to the target.
- Hoops and goalsAn adjustable basketball hoop works on grass or patio. Start with the rim low for early success, then raise it as your child grows in confidence.
- Stepping stone riverStepping stones aren’t just for indoors. Lay a stepping stone trail across the lawn and pretend the grass is a river that has to be crossed.
- The garden circuitCombine everything into a circuit: cross the stepping stones, score a goal, throw three rings, then shoot a basket. Time each lap and cheer each other on.
Tips for a great garden session
- Choose a flat area of grass or patio away from ponds, steps, paths and hard edges.
- Use ground stakes where supplied to keep goals secure.
- Keep sessions short and fun — stop before children get tired.
- On hot days, play in the shade and take regular water breaks.
Keeping it safe
Supervise children during all outdoor play and check equipment is set up correctly before each use. Follow the manufacturer’s age guidance for every product, and bring equipment inside after use to keep it in good condition.
See our full Outdoor Movement collection for more garden play ideas.
