5 Games Kids Can Play on a Swing Set

Swingsets and playground activities can keep kids active and engaged for hours, but after some time, they might get bored of them. What then? You’ve spent money on a fun swingset, and now your kid is over it? Playing games with your kids is a great way to reignite their enjoyment of their swing set, and it’ll give you some special bonding time with them, too. Here are some swing set games you can play with your kids.

1.   A swing race

For our first game, it would be better if you had more than one kid playing at a time, ideally two. If not, then you’ll need to play with your kid if the swingset is capable of handling your weight. To play, first, allow each kid to get comfortable on the swing and ready to swing. Make a big deal about the preparation; it is a race.

The aim of the game is to try to swing as fast and as high as they can for the longest from a stationary position. If your kids are swinging together with each other or their friends, then you can stand in as the judge. If not, then you may want to ask another person to be the judge for you two.

2.   Balancing act Challenge

There’s more on a swingset than just swings, so try to use all the tools at your disposal. Another fun game to play is to have a balancing competition. You could do this anywhere, really, but the best place would be to find a safe place to balance that’s slightly raised off the ground, like a balancing beam, for example.

Start by both standing on the beam together holding onto supports or each other if need be. On the count of three, let go and see how they can keep their balance for the longest. You could switch things up a little and try to balance on one leg or after spinning. Try to make it more challenging if it’s too easy for your child.

3.   Kicking the ball mid-air

For swings that aren’t suitable for adults, you could throw the ball to your kid and allow them to kick it back to you while swinging. While this may require you to fetch the ball often, it poses a unique challenge for your child, especially since it requires them to multitask.

Stand a few meters away from where your child swings and allow them to get a decent amount of momentum before you throw the ball. They should use a soft ball that won’t hurt their foot when they kick it. As they make their ascent, through the ball to meet them halfway, allowing them to try to kick it back to you. For every ball that makes it back to you, give them a point.

4.   Shooting hoops

Some of the best swingset brands, like VulyPlay, include a basketball hoop with their sets. What better way to bond with your child than to shoot hoops with them? There are so many games you could play, like a 1v1 or target practice. Regardless of what you play, shooting hoops will be a fun pastime for you and your kid!

5.   A race through an obstacle course

For this one you might need to add a few more items to the course or have a swingset that’s designed for adults too, and yes, you get those! Set up an obstacle course for you and your child to race through. Make sure that it’s challenging but manageable for them. Set a start point and finish line and race your child through it, ensuring that you allow them to win. But, give them a challenge still.

Safety considerations

Safety should always be a concern when playing any game on a swing set. Consider your child’s age and ability before playing the games above with them and adjust them accordingly. While a little bit of competition and fun is always great, it’s not advised if it will be too dangerous for you or your child.

Final Thoughts

There’s only so much you can do with your child on a swing set, especially if it’s made for younger kids. But never fear, because, with some research and imagination, there is actually a lot you can do while your kid swings or plays on the set, even if it’s just pushing them on the swing. So, get out there and have a fun time with your child on their swingset!