Laughing Contest game – A funny and interactive party challenge
The Laughing Contest game is a hilarious and lighthearted activity where kids try to make each other laugh—without laughing themselves! Ideal for birthday parties, school events, or rainy-day indoor fun, this simple group game is guaranteed to create unforgettable memories and lots of giggles.
Game overview and setup
This laughter-filled game is easy to organize and requires no materials—just enthusiastic players and a sense of humor.
- Number of players: Minimum 6 children
- Age range: From 6 years old
- Setting: Indoors or outdoors
- Play time: About 20 minutes
- Supplies needed: None
This makes it a great last-minute option for parties or group gatherings where you want to break the ice and energize the atmosphere.
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How to play the Laughing Contest game
Once the group is gathered, follow these simple steps to launch the game:
1. Form a circle
Have all the children sit or stand in a circle so they can see one another clearly.
2. Designate the “Laugher”
Choose one child to be the Laugher. Their mission is to make others laugh using funny faces, sounds, or jokes—but without any physical contact.
3. The challenge begins
While the Laugher performs, the rest of the players—called the Contestants—must keep a straight face. No smiling, chuckling, or bursting into laughter!
4. Elimination and scoring
The first child to laugh is out for that round. The last player who hasn’t laughed wins the round and earns a point. They become the next Laugher.
5. Winning the game
After several rounds, the child with the most points is crowned the ultimate Laughing Contest champion.
This game can be repeated as many times as you wish and easily adapted for any group size.
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Variations to keep it fresh
To make the Laughing Contest game even more entertaining, here are some fun variations you can try:
- Themed laughter: Set a theme like pirates, animals, or superheroes. The Laugher must perform in character.
- Team mode: Divide players into two teams. One team performs while the other keeps straight faces. Rotate and tally the points!
- Props allowed: Let the Laugher use silly props, hats, or costumes to increase the challenge and creativity.
- Silent laughter: Contestants must hold in not just laughs but any reaction at all—no smiling or eye twitching!
These variations make the game more inclusive and adaptable for various ages and party styles.
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Educational benefits of the Laughing Contest game
Besides being fun, this social game helps children develop important emotional and interpersonal skills:
- Boosts creativity and humor through improvisation and roleplay
- Improves self-confidence as kids perform in front of peers
- Strengthens communication skills and expressive language
- Enhances emotional control by resisting the urge to laugh
- Develops observation by reading others’ facial expressions and gestures
- Encourages empathy and social bonding
- Fosters a positive group dynamic through shared laughter and joy
Whether used as a warm-up activity or a main party event, the Laughing Contest builds much more than laughter—it builds connections.
FAQ – Laughing Contest game
Here are a few helpful tips and answers to make your Laughing Contest even more fun and adaptable to different groups and situations.
- How can I include shy or introverted children in this game?
Give shy players the option to observe a round before participating, or let them start as Contestants instead of the Laugher. Once they see others having fun, they often join in more comfortably. - Can I use background music during the game?
Yes! Light, cheerful background music can create a relaxed atmosphere and help set the tone—just make sure it’s not too loud so everyone can hear each other clearly. - How can I keep eliminated players engaged?
Invite eliminated players to form a “laugh patrol” that watches for even the smallest giggle from remaining Contestants. This gives them an important role while keeping the energy up. - Is this game suitable for children with special needs?
Absolutely, but adapt as needed. For example, replace physical gestures with simple facial expressions, or allow nonverbal Laughers. Keep rules flexible and supportive for all participants. - What’s the best way to wrap up the game on a high note?
End with a group laugh challenge—see how long everyone can laugh together without stopping! It’s a great way to close the game with shared joy and unity.
Keep the fun going with more printable games
Want more creative activities to keep your party full of smiles? Explore our wide range of printable party games, mystery hunts, and escape rooms designed for kids ages 4–12. Fun, ready-to-play, and easy to set up!
