The Toss n’ Run game is a high-energy outdoor activity for kids that combines running, throwing, catching, and fast reactions. Perfect for children aged 7 and up, this group game is ideal for birthday parties, recess breaks, or any fun outdoor gathering. With just a ball and a few simple rules, it turns a wide-open space into an exciting playground!
What Is the Toss n’ Run Game?
This dynamic Toss n’ Run game mixes movement, anticipation, and quick thinking. One child throws the ball in the air while shouting out a number—and everyone else must run, except the child whose number is called. That child has to catch the ball, yell “Freeze!” and keep the game going.
Simple to organize and full of action, it’s perfect for kids who love to move, laugh, and react fast!
Want a thrilling adventure to protect hidden loot? Try our Treasure Protectors challenge mission, where kids guard treasures, solve puzzles, and work as heroic defenders.
Game sheet
Here’s what you need to know to get started with this active group game:
- Number of Players: 6 or more
- Ages: From 7 years old
- Materials Needed: 1 soft ball
- Setting: Outdoors
- Play Time: Around 15 minutes per round
Simple, energetic, and endlessly replayable—this is a great way to burn off energy while building coordination.
Add colorful excitement to your next event with The Rainbow Relay group race, where kids dash through challenges in vibrant procession.
Why Your Kids Will Love the Toss n’ Run Game
This game is pure fun from start to finish! Kids love the unpredictable nature of waiting for their number, the burst of action when it’s called, and the challenge of catching the ball under pressure.
- Fast-paced and full of surprises
- Keeps everyone moving and involved
- Great for groups with different energy levels
- Minimal setup, maximum fun
- Encourages both teamwork and individual action
It’s the kind of game kids will want to play again and again! Want a mix of brainpower and speed? Try our Riddle Race puzzle run challenge, where kids solve clues while racing to the finish.
How to Play the Toss n’ Run Game
To keep things running smoothly, follow these simple steps:
- Assign Numbers: Each child gets a unique number (use stickers or call them out clearly).
- Form a Circle: Players stand in a large circle; one child stands in the middle with the ball.
- Throw and Call: The child in the middle tosses the ball high and yells a number while running away.
- Catch or Chase: The child whose number was called tries to catch the ball before it lands. If they miss, they pick it up, throw it again, and call a new number.
- Freeze! If the ball is caught, the catcher yells “Freeze!”, names another player, and tosses the ball to them.
- New Thrower or Forfeit: If the named child catches it, they become the next thrower. If they drop it, they’re either eliminated or receive a fun forfeit.
Repeat until everyone has had a turn or only one player remains. For swashbuckling fun and treasure quests, don’t miss our Pirates Gold adventure challenge, perfect for kids ready to set sail and search for gold.
Fun Variations to Try
Spice up the game with these creative twists:
- No Eliminations: Instead of being out, missed catches earn points or silly forfeits.
- Freeze Tag Hybrid: After “Freeze!”, the catcher tries to tag someone before they run.
- Team Play: Divide kids into teams and alternate throwers within each group.
- Bonus Rounds: Add challenges like throwing with your non-dominant hand or calling out a color instead of a number.
These variations make the Toss n’ Run game adaptable for all skill levels and group types. For high-stakes hide‑and‑seek fun, try our Cops & Robbers chase-and-escape game, where kids strategize, chase, and outsmart each other in our classic pursuit challenge.
Educational Benefits of the Game
This game offers more than fun—it helps kids grow in key developmental areas:
- Gross Motor Skills: Builds agility, balance, and coordination
- Hand-Eye Coordination: Improves tracking and catching ability
- Listening & Focus: Kids must stay alert and react quickly
- Rule Following: Reinforces structure and fair play
- Teamwork & Patience: Teaches turn-taking and respectful communication
- Emotional Regulation: Helps manage excitement, frustration, and pressure
It’s the perfect mix of movement, focus, and fun! Looking for more action-packed ideas? Explore our full collection of kids’ running games, perfect for keeping energy levels high at any event.
FAQ – Toss n’ Run Printable Game
- What type of ball is best?
A soft foam ball or lightweight playground ball works best for safety and ease of catching. - Can I play this with fewer than six kids?
Yes, just reduce the number of assigned numbers and adapt the rules to fit your group size. - How do I keep it fair?
Make sure every child has a chance to throw and keep the atmosphere friendly and encouraging. - Is it okay to skip eliminations?
Absolutely! Use forfeits, points, or bonus rounds instead to keep everyone playing longer. - Can I play this game indoors?
It’s not recommended. This game needs lots of running space and is best suited for outdoor play.
And for printable fun beyond outdoor races, check out our PDF adventure kits for kids—perfect for birthdays, holidays, classrooms, or rainy afternoons!
