4th Day of 4th Grade Celebration Back to School Activities
Have you heard about the 4th day of 4th grade celebration?!?! The first week of school is all about setting the tone for the year,
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Are you looking to organize a fantastic field day for your upper elementary students without breaking the bank?
You’ve come to the right place!
Field days are a great way to build team spirit and create lasting memories during the school year. Unfortunately, not every school hosts an annual event, leaving teachers to take on the planning and execution themselves. Don’t worry!
We’ve got you covered with 55+ best field day games and activities that are perfect for a DIY event.
This post is brought to you by:
Who Freed the Fish, A Classroom Mystery Reader’s Theater Whodunnit!
It’s the perfect activity for celebrating your own field day!
This mystery takes place on Field Day! When the fish go missing, your students will be pointing fingers at everyone! You can find it on TPT here!
When planning your own field day, there are several factors to keep in mind.
These guidelines will help you create an unforgettable experience for your students without stretching your resources too thin.
We understand that not every teacher has a limitless budget.
That’s why our list of games and activities focuses on using low-cost or readily available materials, like hula hoops, pool noodles, and ping pong balls.
With some creativity and resourcefulness, you’ll be able to create a fun-filled day without breaking the bank.
As a teacher, you’re likely already juggling multiple responsibilities.
To help you save time, we’ve compiled games and activities that require minimal setup and planning.
Our suggestions include classic field day games such as relay races and tug of war, as well as creative games that repurpose everyday items like pizza boxes and sidewalk chalk.
Since you’re doing this on your own, it’s crucial to strike a balance between creating an exciting event and managing your time efficiently.
To help you streamline the planning process, we recommend setting up an activity station volunteer and rotation schedule and enlisting the help of activity station volunteers. This way, you can ensure your students have a blast without overburdening yourself.
A successful field day should be enjoyable for all students, regardless of their physical abilities or interests.
Our list includes a variety of games, from competitive races to team building exercises, that cater to different skill levels and interests.
This will help keep younger kids engaged while still challenging the older ones, ensuring that everyone has a great time on this fun day!
Let’s dive into some of the classic field day games that have stood the test of time. These activities are not only fun but also simple to set up and execute.
Relay races are a field day staple that fosters teamwork and friendly competition. Here are a few fan-favorites:
In this classic relay race, students race while balancing a ping pong ball on a spoon. When they reach the finish line, the next team member takes over. The first team to have all members complete the course wins.
Pair up your students, with the one team holding the other’s legs while they walk on their hands. The teams race to the finish line, where the next pair takes over. Whichever team finishes first is the winning team.
Tie two students’ legs together, and watch them race to the finish line. Once there, the next pair takes their place. The first team to have all pairs cross the finish line wins.
Students hop to the finish line in a sack (or pillowcase). The next student in line goes once their teammate completes the course. The team that finishes first wins.
This classic game needs little introduction. Two teams face off, each pulling their end of a rope. The team that pulls the other past a predetermined mark wins.
Set up a thrilling obstacle course using simple materials like hula hoops, pool noodles, and beach balls. You can tailor the course to your students’ abilities, making it challenging yet achievable.
Encourage teamwork and camaraderie with these activities:
Design tasks that require group effort, such as moving a soccer ball through a course using only pool noodles. The first team to complete the challenge wins.
Give each team materials like sidewalk chalk or poster boards to create team banners or come up with a chant to boost morale.
You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to have a great time on field day. In fact, with just a simple ball, you can engage students in a wide variety of games and activities. Here are 25 ideas to get you started:
Dodgeball: A classic game where teams try to hit opponents with a ball while avoiding getting hit themselves.
Kickball: A fun blend of baseball and soccer that’s easy to set up and play.
Foursquare: Divide students into four squares and have them bounce the ball to one another without letting it drop.
Basketball: Set up a hoop, and let the students play a friendly game of basketball.
Soccer: Organize a soccer match using a basic ball and a makeshift goal.
Volleyball: All you need is a net and a ball for students to enjoy a fun game of volleyball.
Hot Potato: Students pass the ball around while music plays, and whoever is holding the ball when the music stops is out.
Catch: Simply pair up students and have them toss the ball back and forth to practice hand-eye coordination.
Crab Soccer: Students crawl like crabs while trying to kick the ball into the opposing team’s goal.
Scatterball: Similar to dodgeball, but there’s only one ball, and players must stay within a designated area.
Monkey in the Middle: One student stands in the middle while others toss the ball over their head, trying to keep it away from the “monkey.”
Wall Ball: Students take turns throwing the ball against a wall, then catching it on the rebound.
Keep Away: One team tries to keep possession of the ball while the other team attempts to steal it away.
Around the World: Students stand in a circle and try to pass the ball around the entire circle without dropping it.
Clean Your Room: Divide the play area into sections and give each team a ball. The objective is to keep your team’s area free of balls by kicking them into opponents’ areas.
Team Juggle: Students work together to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible, using any body part except their hands.
Silent Ball: Students pass the ball around without talking. If a student talks or drops the ball, they’re out.
Ultimate Ball: A combination of football and soccer, where students pass the ball down the field and try to score by catching it in the end zone.
Blindfolded Ball: Blindfolded students try to score a goal using only their sense of touch and direction from their teammates.
Medicine Ball Relay: Teams race to carry a weighted ball down the field and back using only their chests and backs.
Rolling Relay: Students take turns rolling a ball between their legs and down the field to the next teammate.
Long Ball: A mix between baseball and kickball, with the ball being thrown and caught instead of kicked.
Pass the Ball: Students form a circle and must pass the ball using only their feet.
Bump and Run: Students throw the ball into the air and then race to catch it before it hits the ground.
Target Practice: Set up targets (such as cones or buckets), and have students practice aiming and throwing the ball at them.
Add a refreshing twist to your field day with these water-based activities. Be sure to have a plan for students to dry off after participating in these games.
Pair up students, and have them toss water balloons back and forth. With each successful catch, they take a step back. The last pair standing without breaking their water balloon wins.
In this relay race, students race to sit on a water balloon and pop it before running back and tagging the next student. The first team to finish the relay wins.
Fill a kiddie pool with water, and let students participate in various games such as “fishing” for floating objects or splashing their way through a pool noodle obstacle course. Just remember to supervise younger students closely during water activities for safety.
A water hose and a bucket are all you need to create a refreshing and entertaining field day experience for your students. Here are some fun and easy games that make the most of these simple items:
Fill the Bucket Relay:
Divide students into teams and have them race to fill their own team member’s bucket with water from the hose. The first team to fill their bucket to a designated line wins.
Water Hose Limbo:
Have students take turns trying to limbo under a stream of water from the hose. Lower the water stream with each round, and the last person standing wins.
Hose Run:
Set up an obstacle course that students must navigate while holding the water hose. They can race individually or as teams to complete the course.
Water Hose Tag:
Designate one student as “it” and give them control of the hose. They must spray other students to “tag” them. The last person remaining dry becomes the new “it.”
Students race with a small amount of water in their buckets. They must carry the bucket on their heads and try not to spill any water. The team with the most water left in their buckets at the end wins.
Firefighter Relay:
Teams race to fill their buckets using the water hose and then pour the water into a container on the other side of the field. The first team to fill the container wins.
Water Tug of War:
Set up two buckets and have students use the water hose to push a small ball from the center into the opposing team’s bucket, which is turned onto its side like a goal. The team that gets the ball into their opponents’ bucket first wins.
Water Hose Jump Rope:
Swing the water hose like a jump rope, and have students take turns jumping over the stream of water without getting wet.
Duck Duck Spray:
Have the students sit in a circle. The “goose” will go around the circle with the water hose crimped shut until they get to the “goose.” The player that’s it will uncrimp the hose and spray the duck instead of saying “Goose.”
Splash and Dash:
Set up a finish line a short distance away from the water hose. Have students race to fill their buckets, then run to the finish line and dump the water on themselves. The first student to complete the task wins.
Who says you need fancy equipment for a fantastic field day? Here are some enjoyable games that use basic items like hula hoops, beach balls, and jump ropes.
Hula Hoop Soccer: In this creative game, two teams race to push a soccer ball through a course marked by hula hoops. The first team to score a goal wins.
Hula Hoop Relay: Students pass a hula hoop around their team while holding hands. The first team to pass the hoop to every member of team wins.
Toss Hula Hoops: Set up a ring toss game using hula hoops and cones or stakes. Students take turns trying to toss the hoops onto the targets.
Students race to pass a big beach ball over their heads to the last person in line, who then runs to the front. The first team to have every member in their original order wins.
Play a game of soccer using a big beach ball instead of a traditional soccer ball. This twist on the classic game adds a new level of excitement.
Students take turns jumping rope down to the finish line and back. The next student in line goes once their teammate completes the jump ropes course. The first team to finish wins.
In this relay race, students jump rope to the finish line and back as quickly as possible. The first team to complete the course wins.
Have students use pool noodles to hit a soccer ball and score goals. This fun variation of soccer is a blast for all ages.
Create games by cutting pool noodles into smaller pieces. Students can use them as batons in relay races or build structures for team-building activities.
A little imagination goes a long way in creating a memorable field day. Here are some inventive games that won’t break the bank.
Students race while balancing a pizza box on their heads. When they reach the finish line, the next student takes over. The first team to complete the course wins.
Using sidewalk chalk, draw a straight line for students to walk along as if it were a balance beam. For added difficulty, the straight line can incorporate zigzags and turns.
Create games like hopscotch, four square, or even a large-scale maze for students to navigate using only sidewalk chalk.
Set up a ring toss game using everyday items like paper plates and water bottles. Cut the center out of paper plates, and have students toss them onto the water bottles.
Spice up the classic three-legged race with new challenges, like walking backward or completing an obstacle course while tied together.
Now that you’re armed with tons of exciting games and activities, let’s go over some tips for planning and executing your DIY field day.
Before diving into the fun, outline your field day’s schedule, including breaks and time allocations for each activity. This game plan will ensure a smooth flow of events throughout the field day activity.
To keep things organized and minimize downtime, create an activity rotation schedule for your students. This way, everyone gets a chance to participate in each game and stay engaged.
Enlist the help of parent volunteers, older students, or fellow teachers to manage activity stations. Having extra hands on deck will help the day run more smoothly and allow you to focus on the big picture.
Even if the whole school isn’t participating, I bet some of the teachers on your team will be interested in the great idea of teaming up with you!
Room moms are an amazing resource for planning, gathering materials, and even rounding up some other volunteers to be activity station helpers!
Maybe your whole school does want to get involved!
If you’re lucky enough to have other classrooms on board, here are some things you should think about:
Creating an inclusive, engaging field day event is much easier when the entire school community gets involved. Here are some ideas for encouraging parent involvement in planning, implementing, and running your DIY field day event:
Start by informing parents about the field day event early in the school year. Regularly update them on the progress and share any new developments or needs through newsletters, social media, and school announcements.
Invite interested parents to join a Field Day Committee to help plan and organize the event. This group can brainstorm ideas, delegate tasks, and work together to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Create a sign-up sheet for parents to indicate their availability and interest in volunteering on field day. Be specific about the roles and responsibilities, such as activity station helpers, snack station coordinators, and set-up or clean-up crews.
Recognize that not all parents have the same availability or skillset. Offer a variety of ways for parents to contribute, such as donating supplies, making phone calls, or helping with pre-event preparations.
Clearly communicate the expectations and guidelines for parent volunteers, such as arrival times, dress code, and any necessary training or materials. This will help ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Before field day, hold a volunteer orientation or training session to familiarize parent helpers with the games, activities, and event logistics. This will give them the confidence and knowledge to effectively support the field day.
Reach out to local businesses for support, like donating supplies or providing refreshments. In return, consider showcasing their logos on banners or flyers and publicly thanking them during the event for their contributions.
Foster a sense of camaraderie among parents, teachers, and students by promoting teamwork, open communication, and a shared vision for the school’s field day event.
By incorporating these strategies, you’ll create a well-supported, engaging, and memorable field day that brings together the entire school community, all while building lasting connections among parents, students, and teachers.
Remember, the goal of a field day is to create a fun, memorable experience for your students. Keep the atmosphere light and emphasize the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.
It’s essential to ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate in and enjoy field day activities.
Here’s a list of inclusive games designed specifically for students with physical disabilities or those who are wheelchair-bound, allowing them to have just as much fun as their peers:
A Paralympic sport similar to bocce ball, Boccia can be played by students with various physical disabilities. Using soft leather or rubber balls, players take turns tossing or rolling their balls to get as close as possible to the target ball.
Designed for visually impaired players, Goalball involves teams of three trying to throw a ball embedded with bells into the opponents’ goal. The players use the sound of the bells to locate and intercept the ball.
A popular adaptive sport, wheelchair basketball follows the same basic rules as traditional basketball but is played using specially designed sports wheelchairs.
This adapted version of volleyball allows students with mobility impairments to participate. The game is played on a smaller court, and players must keep one cheek (hehe) in contact with the floor while playing.
Set up targets or buckets at varying distances and have students take turns tossing beanbags. This simple activity can be easily adapted for students with different abilities by adjusting the target height or distance.
Using lightweight rackets or paddles, students can play a modified version of tennis by hitting a balloon back and forth. The slower pace and reduced impact make it more accessible for students with physical disabilities.
Create a tabletop soccer game using a ping pong ball and small figures or objects to represent players. This activity allows students with limited mobility to enjoy a soccer game with their classmates.
Organize a series of wheelchair races on a flat, obstacle-free surface. Students can participate in relays or individual races, making it a fun and inclusive activity for all.
Adapt the classic ring toss game by using larger rings or targets and allowing students to toss the rings from a seated position.
Design an obstacle course tailored to the abilities of your students with physical disabilities. Incorporate activities like navigating through cones, tossing beanbags, or passing a ball to a teammate.
By including these adaptive games in your field day event, you’ll create a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all students, regardless of their physical abilities.
Encourage teamwork and camaraderie among students to foster an atmosphere of support and fun for everyone involved.
With our 55+ best field day games and activities, you’re ready to plan a memorable DIY event that’s sure to impress your students.
From classic games like relay races and tug of war to creative, low-cost activities that make the most of everyday items, you’ll have no trouble putting together an unforgettable day of fun.
So, gather your hula hoops, pool noodles, and sidewalk chalk, and get ready to give your students an experience they’ll cherish long after the school year ends.
Good luck, and have a fantastic field day!
This post is brought to you by:
Who Freed the Fish, A Classroom Mystery Reader’s Theater Whodunnit!
It’s the perfect activity for celebrating your own field day!
This mystery takes place on Field Day! When the fish go missing, your students will be pointing fingers at everyone! You can find it on TPT here!
Have you heard about the 4th day of 4th grade celebration?!?! The first week of school is all about setting the tone for the year,
The last few weeks of school are a great time to do some of the those fun enrichment activities that you may have had to
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