25 Fun Team Building Activities for Kids
Looking for ways to help kids work together? Here are 25 team building activities that teach cooperation and problem-solving:
- Puzzle Piece Challenge
- Human Knot
- Balloon Tower
- Blindfolded Drawing
- Silent Line-Up
- Scavenger Hunt
- Obstacle Course
- Tug of War
- Water Balloon Relay
- Nature Art Project
- Marshmallow Challenge
- Egg Drop Challenge
- Bridge Building
- Escape Room for Kids
- Treasure Map Creation
- Charades
- Telephone Pictionary
- Back-to-Back Drawing
- Story Building
- Mime Time
- Trust Fall
- Blindfolded Obstacle Course
- Human Camera
- Minefield
- Circle of Trust
These activities help kids communicate, solve problems, work towards goals, lead, and build confidence.
Age Group | Activity | Key Skill |
---|---|---|
Toddlers | Duck, Duck, Goose | Social skills |
Preschool | Balloon Tower | Cooperation |
Grade School | Scavenger Hunt | Problem-solving |
Tweens | Escape Room | Critical thinking |
Mix up activities, keep them age-appropriate, and discuss what was learned after each one. Regular team building helps kids develop essential life skills while having fun.
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1. Puzzle Piece Challenge
The Puzzle Piece Challenge gets kids working together to complete a jigsaw puzzle. Here's how it works:
- Split kids into groups of 3-4
- Give each group a bag with puzzle pieces (25-30 pieces)
- Remove 2 pieces from each puzzle and mix with other groups' pieces
- Set a 20-minute time limit
Don't show groups the final picture they're trying to create. This adds challenge and encourages more communication.
As kids work, you'll see them:
- Discussing strategies
- Sharing pieces
- Helping each other find fits
This mirrors real teamwork, where people pool resources and skills for a common goal.
After the activity, ask kids:
- What worked well in their team?
- What challenges did they face?
- How did they overcome challenges?
This reflection reinforces teamwork lessons.
"It's a fun challenge. I can look at the same piece dozens of times before finding where it fits which in turn gives a feeling of accomplishment." - Stephanie Sherry, Digital Reformatting and Microfilm Services
This quote shows how puzzles boost perseverance and satisfaction - key teamwork elements.
2. Human Knot
The Human Knot is a classic team game that's perfect for kids. Here's how to play:
1. Gather 8-20 kids in a circle.
2. Have each child grab hands with two different people across the circle.
3. The goal is to untangle the "knot" without letting go of hands.
This activity takes about 15-20 minutes and works best for kids 12 and up. It builds problem-solving, communication, and cooperation skills.
To make it tougher, try:
- Setting a time limit
- Blindfolding some players
- Requiring silent play (no talking)
After the game, ask kids:
- What strategies worked well?
- How did you communicate?
- What was the hardest part?
"Always generates some laughs as well as communication amongst the team." - David Piang-Nee, Participant
3. Balloon Tower
The Balloon Tower challenge gets kids working together to build the tallest free-standing tower using only balloons and tape. Here's how:
Teams of 4-5 kids compete to build the tallest tower in 20 minutes using:
- 50-75 uninflated balloons
- 1 roll of clear packing tape
- 1 pair of scissors
Rules:
- Tower must be free-standing
- No taping to walls, furniture, or team members
- Only provided materials can be used
To run it:
- Split kids into teams and hand out materials
- Explain rules and set 20-minute timer
- Give 10-minute and 5-minute warnings
- Measure towers and declare winner
For added challenge:
- Impose a "no talking" rule
- Require some team members to keep hands behind backs
After, discuss:
- What strategies worked well?
- How did your team communicate?
- What would you do differently next time?
This activity takes 30-45 minutes total and works for groups of 6-50 kids in various settings.
4. Blindfolded Drawing
Blindfolded Drawing helps kids build communication skills, trust, and creativity. Here's how:
- Split kids into pairs
- Give each pair paper, pencils, and a blindfold
- One child is the "artist" (blindfolded), the other is the "guide"
- The guide describes an object for the artist to draw
Tips:
- Set a 1-2 minute time limit per round
- Encourage guides to use shapes and directions
- Switch roles after each round
This works for groups of 4-20 kids and takes about 15-30 minutes total.
To make it tougher:
- Have guides describe without naming the object
- Add a competitive element by voting on best drawings
After, discuss:
- How did it feel to draw without seeing?
- What made giving or following instructions hard?
- How can we communicate better in everyday life?
"Blindfold drawing ended up being a happy mood booster that doesn't require any time to set up." - KidMinds
5. Silent Line-Up
Silent Line-Up helps kids develop non-verbal communication skills and work together without speaking. Here's how:
- Gather the group and explain the rules: no talking allowed
- Give a specific criterion for lining up (e.g., by height, age, or birthday)
- Set a timer and let kids organize themselves silently
This works for groups of 5-20 kids and takes about 10-15 minutes.
Tips:
- Start with easier criteria and progress to harder ones
- Encourage kids to use gestures and body language
- Watch how different kids take on leadership roles
After, discuss:
- What strategies did you use to communicate?
- How did you decide who should go where in line?
- What was the hardest part of staying silent?
To make it tougher:
- Add a time limit
- Use more complex criteria
- Have kids line up on a balance beam or narrow space
This activity helps kids practice important skills they'll use throughout life.
6. Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts get kids working together while having fun. Here's how to set one up:
1. Choose a theme that fits your group (nature, household items, holidays)
2. Make a list of items to find (use pictures for younger kids)
3. Split kids into small groups of 3-4
4. Set a time limit to find as many items as possible
5. Add fun tasks or riddles to solve along the way
To make it more exciting:
- Photo hunt: Take photos of items instead of collecting them
- Neighborhood bear hunt: Ask neighbors to put teddy bears in windows for kids to spot
- Nature collage: Create art with natural items found
Keep safety in mind:
- Set clear boundaries for searching
- Ensure adult supervision
A well-planned scavenger hunt helps kids develop problem-solving skills, practice teamwork, and stay active. It's a simple yet effective way to bring a group together and create lasting memories.
7. Obstacle Course
An obstacle course gets kids working together while improving physical skills. Here's how to create one:
1. Choose a safe space with room to move
2. Use everyday items like hula hoops, pool noodles, and chairs
3. Include challenges that require different skills
4. Create clear start and finish points with obstacles between
5. Explain rules for safe navigation
To make it team-oriented:
- Form small groups to complete the course together
- Create a relay race with team members taking turns
- Add problem-solving elements that require teamwork
For added fun, try:
- Spy Training: Include decoding puzzles between physical challenges
- Laser Maze: Use string to create a "laser" field kids navigate without touching
- Water Challenge: Add water balloons or sprinklers
Adjust difficulty based on age. Younger kids might enjoy simpler tasks like crawling under a net, while older ones can tackle more complex challenges.
Safety is key. Always supervise and ensure all obstacles are secure and age-appropriate. With proper planning, an obstacle course can build teamwork, improve physical skills, and create lasting memories for kids.
8. Tug of War
Tug of War pits two groups against each other in a test of strength and teamwork. Here's how to set it up:
1. Find a flat, grassy area at least 15 meters long 2. Mark a center line on the ground 3. Place two cones about 5 meters apart on either side of the center line 4. Use a sturdy rope about 20 meters long 5. Mark the rope's center with bright ribbon or tape
To play:
- Split kids into two equal teams of 6-8 players
- Teams grab the rope on opposite sides of the center marker
- On the signal, teams pull the rope towards their side
- The team that pulls the opposing team's marker across the center line wins
Safety tips:
- Have kids wear gloves to prevent rope burn
- Ensure proper footwear to avoid slipping
- Supervise closely
To make it more fun, try:
- Best of Three: Play multiple rounds
- Mixed Teams: Combine different age groups or classes
- Themed Pull: Have teams dress up as characters or in specific colors
Tug of War helps kids build physical strength, teamwork, strategy skills, and unity. Remember to emphasize fair play and good sportsmanship throughout.
9. Water Balloon Relay
The Water Balloon Relay is a fun summer activity that challenges kids to work together while handling delicate water balloons. Here's how to play:
1. Mark a start line and finish line about 20 feet apart 2. Place a chair at the finish line for each team 3. Split kids into equal teams of 4-6 players 4. Teams line up single file behind the start line
Rules:
- First player runs to the chair with a water balloon
- They must sit on the balloon until it pops
- After popping, they run back and tag the next teammate
- Game continues until all team members have popped their balloons
- First team to finish wins
To make it more fun, try:
- Chin Pass: Players pass the balloon using only their chins
- Spoon Carry: Balance the balloon on a spoon while running
- Obstacle Course: Add obstacles to navigate while carrying the balloon
Safety tips:
- Ensure play area is free of sharp objects
- Have players wear shoes to avoid slipping
- Supervise closely to prevent rough play
After the game, turn clean-up into a fun activity. Set a 30-second timer and see which team can collect the most balloon pieces.
10. Nature Art Project
The Nature Art Project gets kids outdoors and sparks creativity while building teamwork. Here's how it works:
1. Take the group on a short nature walk to collect items like leaves, twigs, flowers, and stones
2. Split kids into small groups of 3-4
3. Challenge each team to create an art piece using only the natural materials they've collected
4. Give teams 20-30 minutes to complete their projects
5. Have each team share their creation and explain their process
To make it more engaging, try:
- Assigning themes like "animals" or "landscapes"
- Having all teams contribute to one large nature mural
- Using leaves and paint to create colorful leaf prints on paper
Tips for success:
- Encourage kids to use their senses while exploring and creating
- Play calming background music to enhance focus and creativity
- Discuss the importance of respecting nature and leaving no trace
This activity combines exploration, teamwork, and artistic expression using materials found in nature.
11. Marshmallow Challenge
The Marshmallow Challenge gets kids working together to build the tallest free-standing structure. Here's how:
Materials per team:
- 20 sticks of spaghetti
- 1 yard of masking tape
- 1 yard of string
- 1 marshmallow
Instructions:
- Split kids into teams of 3-5
- Give each team the materials
- Set an 18-minute timer
- Teams must build the tallest structure with the marshmallow on top
Tips:
- Encourage teams to start building right away
- Remind them to test stability often
- Marshmallow must be on top and intact
After, discuss:
- How did your team work together?
- What was the hardest part?
- What would you do differently next time?
Tom Wujec, who popularized this activity, noted:
"Kindergarten children often excelled compared to adults due to their openness to ideas and iterative learning process."
This shows the challenge can teach valuable lessons about teamwork and creativity to kids of all ages.
12. Egg Drop Challenge
The Egg Drop Challenge gets kids thinking like engineers. Here's how it works:
Teams design containers to protect a raw egg from breaking when dropped from a height. The goal? Create the smallest, lightest contraption that keeps the egg intact.
Materials:
- Raw eggs
- Building supplies (straws, paper cups, tape, etc.)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
How to run it:
- Split kids into teams
- Give each team an egg and building materials
- Set a 30-60 minute time limit for design and construction
- Drop each team's container from 20 feet high
- Check if eggs survived the fall
Tips:
- Encourage kids to sketch designs before building
- Allow 2-3 test drops to refine designs
- Discuss what worked (and didn't) after each attempt
One science teacher shared:
"My students wrapped an egg in pool noodle pieces and rubber bands. It survived the drop perfectly, while a meticulous design with cotton balls and a parachute cracked on impact. The kids learned that simple solutions can often work best."
To make it tougher:
- Limit materials
- Increase drop height
- Add obstacles on landing
The Egg Drop Challenge combines creativity, science, and teamwork in one exciting activity.
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13. Bridge Building
Bridge building helps kids work together and think creatively. Here's how to set it up:
Materials:
- Straws, toothpicks, or popsicle sticks
- Tape or string
- Two chairs or tables
- Small weights (coins or marbles)
Challenge: Teams must build a bridge that:
- Spans between two chairs (about 50cm apart)
- Can hold the most weight
- Uses only the given materials
How to run it:
- Split kids into groups of 4-6
- Give teams 30 minutes to plan and build
- Test bridges by adding weights until they break
Tips:
- Ask kids to sketch designs before building
- Encourage teams to test as they build
- Discuss what worked (and didn't) after each test
To make it tougher:
- Limit materials
- Increase span distance
- Add obstacles underneath
"In our class, one team used a triangle design for their popsicle stick bridge. It held 50 pennies before breaking, while the flat designs only held about 30. The kids learned firsthand how shape affects strength", shared a 3rd-grade teacher from Ohio.
This activity teaches problem-solving, teamwork, and basic engineering concepts.
14. Escape Room for Kids
Escape rooms offer a fun way for kids to work together, solve puzzles, and beat the clock. Here's how to set one up:
1. Choose a theme kids will love (treasure hunt, space adventure)
2. Create 5-10 puzzles that lead from one clue to the next. Examples:
- Coordinates grid: Match letters and numbers to find lock codes
- Periodic table puzzle: Use element symbols to spell words
- Balloon clues: Hide messages inside balloons to pop and discover
3. Set up the room with everyday items to hide clues:
- Locked box for final goal
- UV pen and blacklight to reveal hidden messages
- Zip ties to secure items that need "unlocking"
- Jigsaw puzzle to piece together for a clue
4. Set a time limit (usually 60 minutes) and decide on hints allowed
5. Guide kids through the experience, offering hints when needed
6. After the game, discuss what worked well and what was challenging
"In our classroom escape room, we used a coordinates grid puzzle where kids had to match A1=A, B1=G to find the lock code. It was a hit! The students loved the 'aha' moment when they cracked the code", shared a 4th-grade teacher from California.
Use materials you already have to keep costs down. This activity helps kids develop problem-solving skills, teamwork, and critical thinking in a fun, hands-on way.
15. Treasure Map Creation
Treasure map creation gets kids working together while sparking imagination. Here's how:
1. Gather materials: Large paper sheets, markers, items to create an aged look (coffee, tea bags, water)
2. Have kids work in groups to draw their map, including:
- Islands, trees, rocks, and waves
- A compass rose for direction
- A big red X to mark the treasure spot
- A dotted line leading to the treasure
3. Age the map:
- Mix tea and coffee in warm water
- Sponge the mixture onto the paper
- Crumple the map and let it dry
4. Hide clues: Place letters at 4 locations that spell out where the treasure is hidden
5. Set up the hunt: One kid acts as the "pirate" who knows where the treasure is, while others follow the map to find the hidden letters
This activity helps kids practice teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. It's easy to adapt for different settings - indoors, in a backyard, or at a park.
"We used this for my son's birthday party. The kids loved creating their own maps and then swapping with other teams to follow each other's clues. It kept them busy for hours!" shared a parent from Ohio.
16. Charades
Charades gets kids moving, thinking, and working together. Here's how to play:
- Split kids into two teams
- Prepare words or phrases to act out
- Set a 1-2 minute time limit per round
- One player acts out the word without speaking while their team guesses
- Award a point for correct guesses within the time limit
To make it more fun for kids:
- Use pictures instead of words for non-readers
- Allow props for younger children
- Create themed rounds (Disney characters, emotions)
For larger groups, try a "lightning round" with shorter acting times.
"We played charades at my daughter's 8th birthday party. The kids loved it so much, they asked to play again after cake!" shared a parent from California.
Charades helps kids practice communication, creativity, and teamwork while having fun.
17. Telephone Pictionary
Telephone Pictionary combines the classic games of Telephone and Pictionary. Here's how to play:
- Give each child a stack of paper and a pen
- Have everyone sit in a circle
- Each child writes a phrase on their top sheet
- Pass the stacks to the left
- The next child draws a picture based on the phrase
- Fold the paper to hide the original phrase, then pass again
- Continue alternating between writing and drawing until stacks return to owners
This game works best with 6-10 players. For larger groups, split into smaller circles.
To make it more fun:
- Use colored paper and markers
- Set a 30-60 second time limit for each turn
- Have kids vote on the funniest transformations
Kids love seeing how their original phrases change. It shows how communication can get mixed up, while providing lots of laughs.
"We played Telephone Pictionary at my son's 10th birthday party. The kids couldn't stop giggling at the silly drawings and mixed-up messages. It was a hit!" - Sarah, mom of three from Ohio
18. Back-to-Back Drawing
Back-to-Back Drawing helps kids improve communication and creativity. Here's how:
- Pair up kids and have them sit back-to-back
- Give one child a picture and the other paper and a drawing tool
- The child with the picture describes it to their partner, who tries to draw it based only on the description
- After a set time, pairs compare the original picture with the drawing
For younger kids, use simple images like shapes or cartoon characters. For older children, try more complex pictures or abstract art.
To make it tougher:
- Set a time limit (e.g., 5 minutes per round)
- Use unusual or abstract images
- Prohibit certain words (e.g., no shape names)
After, discuss:
- What strategies worked well?
- How did you communicate with each other?
- What was the hardest part?
"We use Back-to-Back Drawing in our elementary art classes to help students understand the importance of descriptive language. It's amazing to see how their communication skills improve over time", says Lisa Chen, an art teacher from Portland, Oregon.
This activity improves communication and teaches the importance of clear instructions and active listening.
19. Story Building
Story Building helps kids develop creativity, listening skills, and teamwork. Here's how:
- Gather kids in a circle
- One child starts the story with a single sentence
- Each child adds one sentence to continue the story
- Continue until everyone has contributed
This takes 5-10 minutes and works best with 3-6 children.
To make it more exciting:
- Use a bag of toys for inspiration
- Set a timer for each turn
- Choose a theme or genre for the story
Story Building helps kids learn to:
- Think on their feet
- Build on others' ideas
- Work together effectively
"In our elementary classes, we use Story Building to help students understand narrative structure and improve their listening skills. It's amazing to see how their storytelling abilities develop over time", says Lisa Chen, an art teacher from Portland, Oregon.
For younger kids (5-9), keep it simple and fun. Older children can handle more complex challenges, like incorporating specific elements or following a particular plot structure.
20. Mime Time
Mime Time helps kids develop non-verbal communication skills and creativity. Here's how to play:
- Split kids into teams of 4-10 players
- Give each team a scenario or object to act out
- Set a 2-3 minute time limit for teams to plan their mime
- Have teams perform for the other groups
- The audience tries to guess what's being acted out
Try these variations:
- Across the Room: Teams convey messages like "I'm tired" or "The food is terrible"
- Guess My Profession: Players act out jobs like baker, artist, or teacher
- Everyday Actions: Mime common activities like brushing teeth or folding laundry
Tips:
- Explain basic pantomime rules (no talking, mouthing words, or using props)
- Start with simple, familiar objects or scenarios for younger kids
- Encourage big movements and facial expressions
- Use a timer to keep the game moving
"Facial expression is very important in communicating non-verbally", says Longzijun, an expert in mime activities for children.
For added fun, make it a competition. Award points for correct guesses and most creative performances. This encourages teams to work together and come up with clever ways to act out their scenarios.
21. Trust Fall
The Trust Fall helps kids develop trust, communication, and responsibility. Here's how to do it:
- Choose a safe area with soft flooring
- Form groups of 8-10 children
- Select one child to be the "faller"
- Position others in two lines facing each other, arms interlocked
- The faller stands with their back to the group, arms crossed over their chest
- On a signal, the faller falls backward into the waiting arms of their teammates
Safety tips:
- Start with small falls and gradually increase height
- Use clear verbal cues: "Ready?" "Falling!" "Fall on!"
- Rotate roles so each child experiences being both faller and catcher
For younger kids, try this simpler version:
- Faller stands on the ground, falls backward
- One partner catches the faller
As kids get comfortable, try variations:
- Blindfold the faller for an added challenge
- Form a circle of catchers around one central faller
- Use a raised platform (1-2 feet high) for older, more experienced groups
"The Trust Fall teaches children they can rely on one another, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation", says a spokesperson from the Boy Scouts of America.
This activity builds trust, improves communication, develops responsibility, and boosts confidence.
22. Blindfolded Obstacle Course
The Blindfolded Obstacle Course helps kids build trust, communication, and problem-solving skills. Here's how:
- Create a safe course using soft items like cushions and foam blocks
- Pair up kids - one blindfolded, one guide
- The guide directs their blindfolded partner through the course using only words
To make it more fun:
- Add a time limit
- Create multiple courses for teams to compete
- Switch roles halfway through
Safety tips:
- Do a risk assessment first
- Ensure adult supervision
- Keep obstacles low to the ground
- Limit movement to a slow walking pace
For older kids, try:
- Using directional language like "north", "south", "east", "west"
- Adding a task to complete while blindfolded (e.g., carrying a ball to a basket)
- Creating a more complex course with turns and twists
"Blindfold games teach children how to better use their other senses and build empathy and awareness about nonsighted individuals", notes Teaching Expertise.
This activity improves listening skills, builds trust, enhances spatial awareness, and develops empathy.
23. Human Camera
The Human Camera activity helps kids develop trust, communication, and observation skills. Here's how:
- Pair up kids
- One is the "camera", the other the "photographer"
- The "camera" keeps eyes closed while the "photographer" guides them
- The "photographer" directs the "camera" to capture three scenes
To take a "photo":
- Position the "camera" correctly
- Gently squeeze their shoulders
- Let the "camera" open their eyes for 3 seconds
After three "photos", switch roles.
To make it tougher:
- Add specific themes for photos (nature, shapes, colors)
- Increase the number of photos to capture
- Set a time limit for each "photo"
"The photographer walks behind her 'camera,' with hands on her camera's shoulders." - Thich Nhat Hanh and the Plum Village Community
After, discuss:
- What scenes did they capture?
- How did it feel to be the "camera" or "photographer"?
- Did their observation skills improve with practice?
This activity improves communication, builds trust, and enhances observation skills.
24. Minefield
Minefield helps kids develop trust, communication, and problem-solving skills. Here's how to play:
Setup:
- Create a 5x5 meter area with masking tape
- Scatter soft objects as "mines"
- Mark clear start and finish lines
How to play:
- Split kids into pairs
- One child is blindfolded, the other guides verbally
- Guide must stay outside the minefield
- Blindfolded child navigates without touching objects
- If they touch an object, the pair starts over
- Switch roles and repeat
Rules:
- Guides can only use words: forward, backward, left, right, stop
- No physical contact allowed
- Only guides can speak during the activity
To make it more fun, try:
- Fitness Challenge: If blindfolded player touches an object, guide does quick exercise
- Silent Guidance: Use clapping or other non-verbal cues instead of words
- Team Challenge: Multiple pairs navigate simultaneously
After, discuss:
- How did it feel to rely on someone else's guidance?
- What communication techniques worked best?
- How does this relate to real-life teamwork challenges?
25. Circle of Trust
The Circle of Trust helps kids develop trust, support, and cooperation. Here's how to play:
- Form a tight circle with 8-10 children
- Choose one child to stand in the center
- The center child crosses arms over chest, closes eyes, and keeps body straight
- They lean backward or sideways
- Other children gently catch and support them
- The group passes the center child around the circle
- Switch roles so each child gets a turn in the center
Safety tips:
- Ensure the circle is tight with no gaps
- Place stronger kids evenly around the circle
- Start with small leans before full falls
- Always have adult supervision
For younger kids, try this simpler version:
- Form a smaller circle of 3-4 kids
- Center child sways gently side-to-side
- Others provide light support
After, discuss:
- How did it feel to trust your teammates?
- Was it easier to trust after a few turns?
- How can we build trust in other situations?
This activity builds confidence and strengthens group bonds. It teaches kids to rely on each other and work as a team.
Team building activities offer more than just fun. They teach essential life skills kids will use throughout their lives. By doing these activities, kids learn to communicate, solve problems, work towards goals, lead, and build confidence.
To make the most of team building:
- Schedule regular activities
- Mix up the types of activities
- Choose age-appropriate challenges
- Ask kids which activities they liked best
- Discuss what was learned after each activity
Remember, the goal is to make these activities fun while fostering teamwork. As Hot Ground Gym says:
"Team building exercises are an awesome and fun way to build social skills and confidence in children."