Four Square game for kids: active outdoor fun with a ball
The Four Square game for kids is a classic American playground game that promotes coordination, quick reflexes, and social interaction. Played with just chalk and a ball, it’s an easy-to-set-up activity that keeps children engaged, moving, and laughing. Perfect for school recess, summer camps, or backyard parties, this game is as fun today as it was generations ago.
An easy game to set up and enjoy outdoors
Ideal for small groups, this game requires minimal materials and space, making it great for spontaneous outdoor play.
- Number of players: 4 or more
- Recommended age: 6 and up
- Play time: About 20 minutes (or more depending on group size)
- Supplies needed: Sidewalk chalk and a medium-sized ball
- Play area: Outdoors on a flat surface
Keep the energy high with the Hot Potato passing game—a fast-paced favorite that gets kids moving, laughing, and reacting quickly in a group!
How to set up and play the Four Square game
This game blends hand-eye coordination, strategy, and movement. Here’s how to get started:
- Use chalk to draw a large square divided into four equal smaller squares (label them 1 through 4).
- Each player claims one square. If you have more than four players, they rotate in as others are eliminated.
- The player in square 1 serves the ball by bouncing it once in their square, then hitting it into another player’s square.
- The receiving player must allow the ball to bounce once, then hit it into another square.
- Play continues with the ball bouncing only once per square before being hit.
- A player is eliminated if:
- They fail to return the ball before a second bounce
- The ball lands outside the square or on a boundary line
- They hit the ball into their own square
Eliminated players rotate out, and a waiting player joins in. The goal is to reach and stay in square 1 for as long as possible.
Variations to keep the game fresh
Add a twist to your game by introducing new rules or challenges:
- Timed rounds: Use a timer and rotate players after a set time, not just when eliminated
- Themed rounds: Add creative challenges, like bouncing the ball with only one hand or using a specific word when serving
- Reverse rotation: Instead of clockwise movement, rotate players counter-clockwise when someone is eliminated
These small changes keep the game exciting, especially for frequent players.
Add excitement to your party with the Bouncy Ball Toss challenge—a fun twist between darts and basketball that keeps kids aiming and bouncing!
Educational and developmental benefits
The Four Square game is not just great for energy release—it also supports important physical and social development:
- Improves hand-eye coordination and fine motor control
- Promotes physical activity in a fun and inclusive setting
- Teaches sportsmanship and fair play
- Enhances focus, reaction time, and strategic thinking
- Builds confidence and resilience through friendly competition
- Encourages teamwork and communication in group play
- Helps children follow rules and take turns, supporting classroom or group dynamics
It’s a fantastic way to get kids active while developing life skills that go beyond the playground.
Looking for more energetic games that keep kids moving and smiling?
Check out our printable game kits, packed with interactive activities for birthdays, holidays, and everyday fun.
