![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_Hero.jpg?w=1024)
Watching the Olympics will inspire you. Summer is a great time to challenge family and neighbors to a little friendly competition. Here are a few ideas. Don’t forget to have fun!
Ready, Set, Race
There’s nothing more classic than a running race. Decide where the race will start and finish. It can be as short or as long as you like. Who’s the fastest? Let’s find out!
Kick the Ball
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-1.jpg?w=1024)
Kickball is a summer favorite. On a street without traffic, draw bases with chalk. Are you playing on grass? Old shirts or toys will work!
Up and Over
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-2.jpg?w=1024)
Grab a ball and a net. It’s time for volleyball! No net? Tie a jump rope between two trees. In a yard or park, turn on sprinklers for added fun.
Chalk Games
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-3.jpg?w=1024)
You can do a lot with a piece of chalk. Draw a hopscotch court. Or host a guessing game. Can a friend guess what you’re trying to draw?
Toss It In
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-4.jpg?w=1024)
In the game cornhole, players throw beanbags at targets. Don’t have beanbags? Use little balls or toys. Don’t have cornhole targets? Buckets or bowls work.
Knock 'em Down
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-5.jpg?w=1024)
Try lawn bowling! Find a patch of grass in a yard or park. Set up your “pins.” Empty bottles work well. Roll a ball at them. How many can you knock down?
Jump for Joy
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-6.jpg?w=1024)
How long can you jump rope without getting tangled up? You can also try some jump-rope tricks. Can you cross and uncross your arms?
Off to the Races
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/210524_CMS_HomeGames_2nd-7.jpg?w=1024)
Relay races are exciting. How fast can you run with an egg on a spoon? Pillowcases are great for a potato-sack race.