Parachute Games for Kids: Fun Group Activities for Any Occasion
Discover the colorful world of parachute games, a favorite activity for birthday parties, classrooms, family reunions, and outdoor play. Using a large, multicolored fabric parachute, kids can participate in a wide range of playful and cooperative activities that promote teamwork, coordination, and pure fun.
What Are Parachute Games?
Parachute games for kids use a round, colorful fabric—typically made of durable nylon—with hand straps all around the edges. Available in various sizes (from 3.6 to 7.3 meters in diameter), parachutes are perfect for indoor gym time or outdoor group games. Even a large sheet can be used as a substitute for some activities.
These games encourage movement, cooperation, imagination, and a great deal of laughter. Ideal for children ages 4 and up, parachute play brings joy while supporting physical and social development.
Practical Info
- Number of Players: 4 or more
- Age Range: From 4 years old
- Supplies: A parachute (or large sheet), balls, lightweight objects depending on the game
- Setting: Best played outdoors or in a gymnasium
- Duration: Around 30 minutes (or longer with multiple games)
Looking for another fun and active group game? Try our Pop and Stop Bubble Game—a playful activity that keeps kids moving, laughing, and reacting to every bubble that pops!
How to Play: Fun Parachute Game Ideas
Here’s a collection of classic and original parachute games kids will love. These games work for school, summer camp, parties, or just active playtime in the backyard.
Parachute Tag
Lift the parachute high in the air. Call out the name of one child, who must run to the other side before the parachute falls and touches them. It’s a fun, fast-paced game that sharpens reflexes and keeps everyone alert.
The Mushroom
All players lift the parachute together and quickly sit down while pulling it behind their backs. This movement traps the air underneath, creating a giant mushroom dome. Kids love the visual effect and the cozy feeling inside.
Cat and Mouse
One child (the mouse) crawls under the parachute, while another (the cat) moves on top trying to catch them. The rest of the group waves the parachute to hide and help the mouse escape. It’s great for group cooperation and energy release.
Face to Face
Divide the group into two teams, standing on opposite sides of the parachute. Place a ball in the center. Teams work together to move the parachute and score a point by making the ball roll off the other team’s side.
The Sea
Kids make gentle or strong waves by shaking the parachute up and down, mimicking the ocean. It’s ideal for introducing rhythm, coordination, and teamwork through sensory play.
The Wheel
Children hold the parachute at waist height, stand sideways, and walk together in a circle while keeping the parachute horizontal. It requires synchronicity and builds group coordination.
The Plate
Children pull the parachute tight and lean back together without letting go. The goal is to stretch the fabric as much as possible, creating tension and a disc-like shape. This builds strength and balance.
Popcorn
Place soft balls (like tennis balls or foam balls) on the parachute. Children shake it to make the balls pop into the air. Try to keep as many balls bouncing as possible without them falling off.
Parachute Golf
Roll a lightweight ball across the parachute toward a central hole. Kids must adjust their movements to guide the ball in. Count the number of movements it takes—like strokes in mini-golf!
The Net (Fish Game)
Choose a few “fish” to crawl under the parachute while others hold it above. At a secret signal, the group quickly lowers the parachute to try and trap the fish underneath. It’s a mix of stealth and timing.
The Walk
Place a ball on the parachute’s edge. Children work together to walk it around in a circle without it falling off. This requires slow, precise teamwork and concentration.
Parachute Tug-of-War
Split the group into two teams holding opposite sides. On signal, both sides pull. The goal is to drag the other team across a designated line—like classic tug-of-war, but with fabric tension instead of rope.
Twister with a Parachute
Use the parachute’s color segments as a Twister board. Call out commands like “Right foot on blue!” Kids follow the directions, creating a tangle of limbs and laughter.
Merry-Go-Round
Everyone holds the parachute with one hand and walks in the same direction. On command (sit, stand, spin, stop), the group responds together. It’s like a human carousel, combining rhythm and group response.
Pancake
Spread the parachute flat on the ground. On the first signal, kids lift it overhead; on the second, they flip it in the air trying to make it land flipped over. A fun challenge requiring timing and coordination.
Kim’s Game
Place small objects or instruments under the parachute. One child goes under to pick one and makes a sound or describes its shape. Others try to guess what it is based on sound or touch.
Round Dance
Play music while children spin the parachute slowly or quickly. When the music stops, they freeze. Start again when the music resumes. It’s perfect for preschoolers and works like musical chairs.
Jumping Game
Place one or more balls on the parachute. The group tries to bounce the ball as high as possible, then catch it again in the center. It’s a thrilling coordination game and a favorite with younger kids.
Need more high-energy group play ideas? Check out our Balloon Confusion Game—a fast-paced activity where kids race, react, and laugh as they chase down balloon chaos!
Why Parachute Games Are Great for Kids
Parachute play is more than just fun. It supports children’s physical, cognitive, and social development in many ways:
- Gross motor development: Jumping, lifting, pulling, and running
- Teamwork & communication: Promotes collaboration and group strategy
- Imagination & creativity: Invent new games, stories, or challenges
- Spatial awareness: Understand directions, coordination, and body control
- Sensory engagement: Feel the textures, movements, and vibrations of the fabric
- Listening & following rules: Essential in group games and school activities
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or camp counselor, parachute games are a go-to choice for lively and cooperative play.
Looking for more games that build focus, coordination, and balance? Explore our full collection of skill games for kids for even more playful challenges!
FAQ – Parachute games for Kids
- Can I play parachute games indoors?
Yes, if you have a large space like a gym or multipurpose room. Outdoor use is ideal but not required. - What size parachute do I need?
Small groups (4–6 kids) can use a 3.6m parachute. Larger groups may need a 6m or 7.3m one. - Can I use a bedsheet instead of a parachute?
For some games, yes! A flat white sheet works well for simpler activities. - Are parachute games suitable for preschoolers?
Absolutely! Just choose simple movements and emphasize cooperation over competition. - How do I clean a parachute?
Use a damp cloth to spot clean. Avoid machine washing unless the product label allows it.
Looking for ready-to-use adventures? Discover our printable PDF kits on Treasure Hunt for Kids: mystery games, escape rooms, and treasure hunts to download and play instantly!
