Preschool Activity Ideas  
Barnyard Match Up

Why is this a fun game? Preschool activity ideas like Barnyard Match Up are twists on old games for kids that we all know and love, like Hide & Seek and Marco Polo.

We took these two games and converted them into a party game by changing up the goal from not being found to finding your partner the quickest.

Preschool Activity Ideas
Barnyard Match Up

Set Up

• Players are divided up into groups of 4. 
  
• Each group is given the name of a barnyard animal (pigs, ducks, dogs, cats, etc) and scattered around the playing area.
  
• All the players are given a blindfold to put on.

Blindfolds

Directions

• The blindfolded players begin the game by calling out the sound that their animal makes (dogs "bark", ducks "quack", etc.) 
  
• They are trying to recognize similar animal sounds and gather together with the other members of their group.
  
• The winners are the first group to gather all of their players together.
• Modifications: For younger players or those with disabilities – Have the players stay down on their hands and knees. Encourage them to move slowly and feel for where they are going so they don't run into anyone.

Secrets for a Great Time:

• Make sure the playing area is safe and free from hazards.
  
• Make sure players are not cheating by looking through their blindfolds.
  
• Group members should be spread throughout the playing area at the start of the game and not too close to each other. 
  
• Adjust the size and number of groups as necessary.
  
• Movement should be slow and controlled. Walking slowly or crawling should work.

For a Twist

• Try to gather 2 groups of animals together, like dogs and cats. Players bark and meow and listen for other barks and meows to come together.
  
• Have one group of animals try to herd another group of animals.

More Preschool Activity Ideas

Didn't find what you were looking for?

We've got plenty more free pre-k ideas to choose from.

You might also be interested in toddler games or baby games if your kids a little younger.

These games are perfect for one-on-one interactions with your preschooler, and they can be easily modified if necessary to fit your child's needs and ability level.

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