Preschoolers — those energetic, imaginative little bundles of joy aged 2, 3 and 4 years — are at the perfect age for party games. Their curiosity and excitement make them eager participants, but their attention spans are short, so it’s important to keep games simple, fast-paced, and most importantly, fun!
Whether you’re planning a birthday bash or just a playdate with friends, here are some tried-and-true party games that are perfect for preschoolers.
These games and more awesome party games are in our Total Party Game Guide. With more than 25 party games with instructions and tips, you will use it again and again when planning parties. The guide can be downloaded instantly.
🦆 Duck, Duck, Goose
Children sit in a circle. One child walks around the circle tapping heads — “duck, duck, duck… GOOSE!” The chosen goose jumps up and chases the tapper around the edge of the circle, trying to tag them before they sit down in the spot where the goose had been sitting.
Top tip: Make sure the space is soft and clear of obstacles.
🐊 Crocodile, Crocodile
A game of anticipation! One player (the crocodile) stands at one end. The others ask, “Crocodile, Crocodile, may we cross the golden river?” The crocodile answers with a condition (e.g., “yes but only if you’re wearing red”). Those who meet it cross safely — others must run without getting caught by the crocodile. If they are caught, they join the crocodile in the middle.
Top tip: Use cones to mark the area where the kids can and can’t run.
🎯 Pin the Tail on the Donkey
A timeless classic! Blindfolded children take turns trying to pin the “tail” on a donkey poster (or any themed version — like “Pin the Horn on the Unicorn”).
Tip: Use Blu-Tack tails for easy clean-up and safety.
🎁 Pass the Parcel
Wrap a small prize in several layers of paper. As music plays, children pass the parcel around the circle. When the music stops, the child holding it peels off a layer. The one who unwraps the last layer keeps the prize!
Tip: Consider putting a small treat or sticker between each layer so everyone gets something.
🕺 Musical Statues
Play music and let the kids dance! When the music stops, they must freeze like statues. Anyone who moves is out — or just let them keep playing for fun.
Tip: You can award ‘statue champion’ awards or prizes for different poses without eliminating anyone.
🦈 Shark Attack
Lay out “islands” (hula hoops, mats or cushions) on the ground. When you yell “Shark attack!” kids must jump onto an island to stay safe. One island is removed each round and those without an island are eliminated.
Tip: This game could be themed to fit your party theme.
🌊 Jump the River
Place two ropes or long strips of fabric on the ground a short distance apart. Kids try to jump over the “river” without falling in. Make it wider each round!
Tip: Use soft mats underneath for safety.
🕰️ What’s the Time, Mr. Wolf?
One child plays Mr. Wolf and stands at one end of the play area. The others call out, “What’s the time, Mr. Wolf?” and take steps forward based on the answer (“3 o’clock” = 3 steps). When Mr. Wolf says “Dinner time!” they chase the others back to the start!
Tip: Set a clear line as the “safe zone.”
Final Thoughts
The best preschool party games are those that are inclusive, simple to explain, and full of movement. Avoid anything that involves waiting too long for a turn, and aim for group games where everyone stays involved. Most importantly, follow the kids’ lead — if they’re laughing and moving, you’re doing it right!
Our Total Party Game Guide and other party game guides can be downloaded at our Etsy store. Check out the range here.
