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Ninja
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Ninja

Kids take turns making one quick move to tap another player's hand, then freeze like a statue.

Ages3rd–5th, PreteenKids5-15 per circleTime10-15 minWhereIndoor or outdoorEnergyActive

Get ready

  1. Have kids stand in a circle, close enough to almost touch hands.
  2. For a big group, make two or three circles.

How to play

  1. Everyone puts their hands in the middle, shouts 'Ninja!', then jumps back into a ninja pose and freezes.
  2. Go around the circle in order. On your turn, make one quick move to try to tap someone's hand, then freeze.
  3. The person being tagged may make one quick move to dodge, then freeze too.
  4. If your hand gets tapped, that hand is out and goes behind your back. Lose both hands and you're out.
  5. No moving except on your turn or when dodging. Keep going until one ninja is left.

Tips & variations

  • Hands only. Make the rule clear: a tap is a light touch on the hand, never a slap.
  • Kids who are out can be judges who call out anyone who moves when it isn't their turn.

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