Relay races can easily be held indoors or out, and children can join teams as they finish eating. Each student takes a turn and sits down when finished. Traditional relays that use batons or sticks are simple to set up and teach children how relays work. Kids can perform relays that involve balancing objects, such as plastic eggs on spoons. Help children strengthen motor skills by requiring them to hop, skip or dribble a ball instead of simply running.
Offer students a variety of sports games to play during lunchtime. The selection allows students to develop several skills. It also allows children who do not feel skilled at one game to try something different, or to choose less competitive sports that make them feel more at ease. Outdoor games include kickball, soccer and softball. Games such as badminton, volleyball and bowling can be played indoors. Tug-of-war, hopscotch and croquet are some popular group activities that do not require as much space or athletic ability.
Students can also join specialized clubs or groups. In these groups the children can learn new skills, such as juggling or yo-yoing. They may also meet as clubs to play board games or cards. Children can form clubs to learn about subjects that interest them, including science or foreign languages. Work with students to ensure that the groups or clubs are not exclusive and other children have opportunities to join.
Verbal games keep students’ minds engaged even as they relax during lunch. Games such as “20 Questions” and “Who am I?” encourage children to think creatively and build communication skills. Memory games, such as remembering what other students have said, require participants to pay attention and focus as they play. Keep the word games simple so that children are not mentally exhausted when they return to class.