Firefly Flashlight Game

It’s no secret that kids love flashlights. Warm summer nights after dark are the perfect time to have fun with flashlights. If you live in a place that has real fireflies, your kids will enjoy using flashlights to pretend to be fireflies themselves. Flashlight tag is a popular game that doesn’t require much planning or equipment and can be enjoyed by as many people as there are in your family. Tag is one of the simplest games around, but playing it after dark with flashlights – perhaps on a family camping trip – will make it unforgettable.

Supplies

To start, you will need a minimum of three people. The more the better – you can play this game at large family gatherings as well. It can only be played in the dark because if it’s light outside there is no need for a flashlight. Firefly flashlight tag should be played in a large, open space. As a precaution, you should check out the area before playing the game. Ensure that you are far from busy roads. If needed, create boundaries for your children. For instance, if you are playing at home the game could be played in the backyard. You should also make sure that the space is clear and free of hazards, such as campfire grilles, logs or branches, and other obstacles that could cause injuries. Keep in mind that you’ll be playing the game in the dark, so it’s best to have a wide open space with no obstacles.

How-To

Before you start the game, make sure everyone knows the rules and the boundaries. Choose a code word for kids to yell if they have hurt themselves or wish to stop the game. One person is first selected to be the firefly. He or she gets to hold the flashlight. The firefly should move away from the rest of the group and stand with his or her eyes closed and the flashlight off. After counting to thirty, the firefly can start trying to tag the other players. He or she should flash the flashlight trying to “catch” the others. When another player is caught in the glare of the flashlight, he or she becomes the firefly. The game continues like this until everyone has had a chance to be the firefly or until the players are tired.

Fun Ideas

There are so many fun variations to this game. In a larger group, more people can be fireflies with flashlights. Another variation for a smaller group is to have everyone except one chosen person carry a flashlight. The person who is “it” must try to hide and there is a time limit on when he or she can be caught. Another idea is to use transparent colored paper to personalize each flashlight. That way, when the other players see the flash they know who is the firefly.

Summary

Firefly flashlight tag is a fun game that will get your kids moving outside during the summer. Once you’ve tried the original game, try a variation.