Field Games

Field Games are silly, fast and friendly outdoor games, a bit like a school sports day with the seriousness taken out. Think races, relays, balancing challenges and team games that are more about giggles than winning. They're also a chance to practise for Patrol Games, the big team competitions where your Patrol (the team you join when you arrive) takes on the rest of Camp.

Sports day classics have been making families laugh for generations. The egg and spoon race is all about balance and nerve. The sack race means hopping as fast as you can without toppling over. In a three-legged race, two people tie their inside legs together and try to run as one, which rarely goes to plan.

Tug of war pits two teams against each other on either end of a long rope. Relay races see teammates pass a baton down the line. And in the limbo, everyone bends over backwards to shuffle under a pole or ribbon that gets lower and lower each round. Wheelbarrow races, hula hoop challenges and giant team games are all part of the same family of fun.

Your Activity Leader gets everyone warmed up, explains each game and shows you how it works. Then it's time to have a go, with a mix of races and challenges played in teams or pairs. It's a great place to try out the sillier games before you're asked to volunteer for them in front of a crowd. Expect plenty of cheering, a few wobbles and at least one spectacular tumble into the grass.

Yes, and it's even better when grown-ups get stuck in too. Children love seeing their parents hop in a sack or try to limbo, and nobody needs to be sporty to join in. Many of the games are about balance, teamwork and timing rather than speed, so younger and older children can play side by side. The goal is to have fun together, and a bit of friendly rivalry never hurts.

Comfortable clothes you can move in and closed-toe shoes with a good grip are best. The games are played on grass and forest ground with roots and bumps, so trainers are ideal. Bring a drink too, as all that racing is thirsty work.

You might also like Capture the Flag, Scavenger Hunt and Ultimate Frisbee.

See all Camp Kindling activities