Carnivals can include much more than just rides.
If you are interested in coordinating a church or school fundraiser or just want to create a family fun fest, organizing a kid-friendly carnival is an idea that many organizations find successful. When planning such an event, preparing a few carnival games for kids can be helpful idea to keep children of all ages entertained.
Balloon Stomp
Have kids stomp balloons to win a prize.
Balloon Stomp is a child-friendly variation of a popular carnival game where players toss darts at balloons to win prizes. As a safe alternative to throwing dangerously pointy objects, players stomp on balloons instead. Write the names of various prizes on small strips of paper and fold them into small squares. Insert the folded papers into several balloons before inflating. Inflate the balloons with the papers inside and also several empty balloons, and place them all in a specified area on the ground. Have children stomp on one, or a specified amount of balloons-perhaps three-for a chance at winning a prize.
Knockdown
Empty tin cans can create a knockdown game.
Knockdown is a simple carnival game that requires little work to assemble and, outside of the cost of prizes, very little expense. On a small table, stack 10 empty tin cans in the shape of a pyramid. Using tape or chalk, draw a line on the ground about 10 to 15 feet in front of the table. Have kids take turns tossing a small ball or bean bag at the tin can pyramid. The number of cans knocked down will determine the size or value of the prize. For outdoor carnivals in warm weather, use squirt guns in lieu of balls or bean bags.
Lollipop Tree
Every player receives a lollipop in this game.
Lollipop Tree is a game of chance where kids can win a prize by choosing a "winning" lollipop. Construct a "lollipop tree" to hold the candy by using cardboard, peg board, or any materials that can stand up and hold the weight of several lollipops. Make several holes in the treetop section to accommodate the lollipops. Divide your prizes in categories, such as small, medium or large, and assign each category a color. Color only the end tips of the lollipop sticks with with colors that correspond to the prizes and appropriate amounts. Insert the lollipops into the treetop keeping the sticks concealed. Kids who choose a lollipop with a colored stick can choose a prize for the category of that color, and all children can keep the lollipop they choose.
Tags: Balloon Stomp, Have kids, Lollipop Tree, stomp balloons