KS2 Playground Games Activities

Get Children Active with Nine Exciting Playground Games

Transform your KS2 PE lessons and playtimes with this comprehensive resource featuring nine classic and creative playground games that develop teamwork, strategy, physical skills, and pure fun for children across Key Stage 2.

Nine Complete Games Included:

1. Dishes and Domes: A fast-paced team game where players race to flip cones up or down! Develops speed, agility, teamwork, and strategic thinking as teams compete to have all cones facing their way when time runs out
2. British Bulldog Variations: Explore safer, adapted versions of this classic running game! Children develop dodging skills, speed, and courage as they attempt to cross from one side to the other without being caught
3. Piggy In The Middle: A timeless game that builds passing accuracy, interception skills, and spatial awareness as players work to keep the ball away from the player in the middle
4. Capture The Flag: An epic team strategy game! Children develop tactical thinking, teamwork, and communication as they defend their flag while attempting to capture the opposition's flag
5. 44 Save All: A thrilling chasing game where caught players can be saved by teammates! Develops running skills, teamwork, and strategic decision-making about when to save and when to evade
6. Jail: A strategic tag variation where caught players go to 'jail' and can be freed by teammates! Encourages teamwork, risk assessment, and tactical thinking alongside physical activity
7. Tag Variations: Explore multiple versions of tag including freeze tag, blob tag, and tunnel tag! Each variation develops different skills while keeping the classic chasing game fresh and exciting
8. Beanbag Snatch: A quick-reaction game that develops hand-eye coordination, speed, and competitive spirit as players race to grab beanbags when their number is called
9. War Ball: An action-packed team game combining throwing, dodging, and strategy! Children develop ball skills, spatial awareness, and teamwork in this energetic playground favourite

Why Teachers Choose This Resource:

• Curriculum-Aligned: Supports KS2 PE objectives for competitive games and physical activity
• Ready to Use: Complete instructions with rules, setup guidance, and safety considerations for each game
• Minimal Equipment: Uses basic PE equipment like cones, beanbags, and balls that schools already have
• Varied Skills Development: Games develop running, dodging, throwing, catching, teamwork, and strategic thinking
• Inclusive Activities: Games can be adapted for different abilities and group sizes
• Versatile Use: Perfect for PE lessons, playtimes, after-school clubs, and wet weather alternatives
• Builds Social Skills: Encourages cooperation, fair play, communication, and sportsmanship

Perfect For:

• KS2 PE lessons and warm-up activities (Years 3-6)
• Structured playtime and break time activities
• After-school sports clubs and activity sessions
• Building teamwork and social skills
• Getting children active and engaged
• Rainy day indoor alternatives (adapted versions)

Learning Outcomes:

Through these games, children will develop fundamental movement skills including running, dodging, and throwing, build teamwork and communication abilities, understand game rules and fair play, develop strategic and tactical thinking, improve fitness and physical confidence, and learn to win and lose graciously.

What Makes This Resource Special:

These aren't just random games—they're carefully selected playground classics and variations that children genuinely love to play. Each game balances physical activity with skill development, ensuring children are not just moving but learning, strategizing, and working together. The variety means you can keep playtimes and PE lessons fresh and exciting all year long.

Building Physical Literacy:

Playground games are where children develop the physical confidence, social skills, and love of movement that lead to lifelong active lifestyles. These games provide structured fun that gets every child involved, moving, and enjoying physical activity in a supportive, engaging environment.

Beyond PE Lessons:

These games are perfect for lunchtime supervisors, after-school club leaders, and anyone working to keep children active and engaged during unstructured time. Clear instructions mean anyone can lead these games confidently, creating positive play experiences for all children.

Get your KS2 students moving, laughing, and learning! These classic playground games provide the perfect blend of physical activity, skill development, and pure fun—building fitness, teamwork, and social skills while creating the joyful play experiences that children remember for years to come.