You know that feeling when you watch your kids play outside, their laughter ringing through the air, and you just wish you could bottle that joy? That’s where I am right now. I’ve been dreaming about creating a simple outdoor game area for our family—somewhere we can toss a frisbee, kick a soccer ball, or maybe just have a good old-fashioned tug-of-war. I can still remember the summer days of my childhood spent running around in the yard, feeling free and wild. Isn’t it the little things that hold the most memories? I want my kids to have that, too. Honestly, how amazing would it be to step outside and have a whole world of fun waiting right there at our doorstep? So, what do you say? Let’s turn this small patch of grass into our very own family playground!
Items You’ll Need
- Cornhole Boards
- Giant Jenga
- Frisbee
- Tug-of-War Rope
- Horseshoe Set
- Bocce Ball Set
- Badminton Set
- Outdoor Twister Mat
- Kubb Set
- Scavenger Hunt Kit
- Water Balloon Launcher
- Portable Fire Pit
- Kickball
- Mini Soccer Goals
- Giant Connect 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Select the Location
I started by picking a flat, grassy area in my backyard that was large enough to accommodate all the games. It should be a space that's safe for everyone to enjoy without any hazards.
Step 2: Mark the Game Zones
Next, I marked out different zones for each game. Using cones or simple stakes, I set up outlines for where the Cornhole Boards, Giant Jenga, and other games will be placed. This helps everyone know where to go!
Step 3: Set Up Cornhole Boards
I set up the Cornhole Boards towards one end of the area, making sure they are the recommended distance apart for a fun game. I ensured they were stable on the ground so they wouldn't tip over.
Step 4: Arrange Giant Jenga
I placed the Giant Jenga set in an open space where everyone can participate without feeling crowded. I stacked the blocks and made sure they were ready to go!
Step 5: Prepare the Frisbee Section
I found a spacious area and laid out some markers to indicate where we would have Frisbee toss games. This was important so everyone knows where to throw and catch.
Step 6: Set Up for Tug-of-War
I picked a strong location with good grip for the Tug-of-War Rope. I made sure there was plenty of space on either side so that two teams could pull without running into anything.
Step 7: Designate Horseshoe Area
I prepared the Horseshoe Set by placing the stakes a proper distance apart in the designated area. I made sure the ground was level for proper gameplay.
Step 8: Set Up Bocce Ball Area
I created a long, rectangular space for the Bocce Ball Set and marked out the boundaries. This area needs to be smooth to roll the balls effectively.
Step 9: Prepare the Badminton Court
I strung up the Badminton net in the middle of the area, with one court on each side, allowing plenty of space for runs and jumps. I made sure the net was taut and at the right height.
Step 10: Unroll Outdoor Twister Mat
I rolled out the Twister Mat in a flat area where everyone can gather around. I ensured it was smooth and secured so it wouldn't bunch up during play.
Step 11: Setup Kubb Game
I marked a rectangular area for the Kubb Set, ensuring it was clear of any obstructions. I placed the wooden blocks and baton in the correct positions for easy access.
Step 12: Prepare Scavenger Hunt Kit
I organized the Scavenger Hunt Kit by hiding different items around the area and marking them in a checklist format. This will be fun for everyone to look for.
Step 13: Set Up Water Balloon Launcher
I found a safe and open area for the Water Balloon Launcher, making sure it was backed up against something safe to avoid accidents. I prepared the balloons for some fun!
Step 14: Prepare Portable Fire Pit
I set up the Portable Fire Pit in a safe corner with plenty of space around it. I placed seating around it for when we want to relax and enjoy s'mores or stories at the end of the games.
Step 15: Setup Kickball and Soccer Goals
I marked out a small field area for Kickball, setting up the bases and mini soccer goals along the sidelines, ensuring there's enough room for everyone to run around.
Step 16: Set Up Giant Connect 4
Finally, I assembled the Giant Connect 4 game in a central spot where everyone can easily reach it when they want to sit down and play while enjoying their snacks.
Step 17: Finalize and Beautify the Area
Once everything was set up, I added some colorful blankets and pillows for seating, strung up some fairy lights for evening ambiance, and placed a cooler with refreshments nearby.
Step 18: Invite the Family
With everything ready, I sent out an invite to my family to come and enjoy a wonderful day filled with games, laughter, and bonding in our new outdoor game area!