Parachute

Parachute is a kid-approved game that can provide hours of outdoor fun and entertainment for children of all ages. To play, you will need a large parachute made from colorful material and between eight and ten players. There isn’t one set game with fixed rules for playing parachute, in fact there are endless possibilities when it comes to the games you can play with this attractive toy. It has long-term value, especially if your kids are young and like to participate in group activities.

Uses

Parachute games are an excellent way to bring children together in a number of environments, including day care, camp, and family gatherings. Parachutes are very easy to store and encourage teamwork and cooperation between the players. Not to mention, parachute is a great way to illustrate the true meaning of community.

parachute1Equipment

Naturally, you will need a parachute to play. You should be able to find a quality parachute for between $20 and $100. Look for a used parachute if you’re on a tight budget. When playing with the parachute, it is helpful to have some other equipment around. Other items that can be used while playing parachute include small bean bags, a volley ball, a rubber ball, a beach ball, jump ropes, or tennis balls.

parachute3How it Works

The parachute is made of colored fabrics and has handles around the edges for the players to hold onto. There should be a leader in order to coordinate the players and make sure they’re all doing the right thing. Players may begin by ruffling the parachute slightly to create a billowing effect, or lifting their arms all the way up and down to create a mushroom. Once the players have a chance to try out the parachute, why not try some fun activities? There are so many different games to play with a parachute. The following are just a few family favorites:

  • Ball Roll: Have the players try to work together to roll a ball directly into the hole in the middle of the parachute. Alternatively, have children work together to try to avoid the ball falling down the hole in the middle.
  • Merry Go Round: Make a Merry Go round by having children turn their bodies back and forth in a sideways fashion while holding the handle with one hand high in the air. Players should walk in a circle. Stop and start music to have children switch directions.
  • Snakes: Place three or four jump ropes in the middle of the parachute. Pretend they are snakes. Have children shake the parachute and avoid touching the jump ropes and getting bitten.
  • Tag: Have the players lift the parachute into the air. Call out two children’s names and have them run to switch places before the parachute falls on them.
  • Change Places: This game works well if you have a large group. Have the players lift the parachute, then call out birthday months, names that start with different letters of the alphabet, or favorite colors. Students run from their places and must find a new place before the parachute falls