Games like Hide and Seek aren’t just old-fashioned pastimes. And they’re not just for children! If you’re running low on high-energy games for preteens or teens, try the ideas below. Games like Hide and Seek, Tag, and Capture the Flag will be a hit with your youth group.
In many of these classic games, teammates cooperate to outwit whoever is It. The goal is to avoid being tagged. These low-cost, accessible games involve speed and agility. Basic rules for the original Kick the Can game are available here.
Best of all, the youth activities can be modified in many ways. Set goofy rules, or ask kids to come up with their own innovative twists on games like Hide and Seek. Play active games for teenagers outdoors or inside, as weather and space allow.
If you’d like, award small prizes to players on the winning team. When kids are worn out from playing, gather for some snacks and fellowship.
Pro Tip: After teens are pros at games like Hide and Seek, have them lead a children’s ministry game night. Or let them volunteer and lead games at a church carnival or community outreach event!
6 Teen Games Like Hide and Seek
Next, let’s look at exciting variations on awesome games. Students will have a blast discovering new twists on old favorites!
1. Designate a whole group to be It.
Do you have lots of players? Then more than one person can be It. Have kids travel as a group.
2. Use more than one object.
Add challenge to classic games like Kick the Can by using more than one can. (By the way, the “can” can be any type of object. So use your imagination!)
3. Try a Hide & Seek escape room.
Next, spice up youth game night with a creative alternative. Find a large area for the escape room. And recruit volunteers to help you set up and run this activity.
