The Olympics appear to be a lot of fun to kids. You get to be a star and millions of people are watching you perform. Give your kids a chance to perform in a Summer Olympics competition that you create. Use the list of ideas below to get started.
Olympic Equipment
You will need the following equipment in preparation for the Summer Olympics:
- Stop watches
- Tape measures
- Whistles for the game officials
- Other equipment as each game requires
Olympic Opening Ceremonies
This will kick off the whole event. Explain what games will be involved in the competitions, how competitors are expected to win and lose graciously, and point out how much fun the day will be.
Olympic Games
Archery:
- Find a spot that allows enough space behind for spectators to watch safely.
- Make sure the spot has 30 yards or more of space between the shooter and the target.
- Make sure there is enough open field behind the target so that missed shots will not damage any property.
- You will need to create a chart to keep scores for medals in this competition.
Badminton:
- You can have competitions involving pairs and singles.
- You will need a judge to determine if shots are in or out, if there is a question.
- Keep scores for each of the teams competing.
- Use the official badminton rules or make your own that are consistent for every team.
Javelin Throw:
- Tape four straws together end to end.
- Mark a starting line behind which all players must stand.
- Place a wastepaper basket at least five feet from the starting line.
- Throw straws into the wastebasket.
- Remember to keep score for all players.
Soccer:
- Have at least three players per team.
- Set goals at least 15 feet apart. Goals can be as simple as rope anchored in the ground.
- Play best two out of three games.
- Keep scores for medals and prizes.
Gymnastics or Free Style Dance
- Let kids pick out their favorite music and choreograph a dance off the top of their head.
- Pick winners by who has the most coordination, best music, and most enthusiastic.
- Hold up posters from 1 to 10 to show their scores. You will need at least three judges for this competition.
- Keep track of scores.
Olympic Medals
Every Olympics competition has a ceremony of awards. You can make your own medals as follows:
Materials:
- Poster board
- Hole punch
- Paint (gold, silver, copper)
- Ribbon
Directions:
- Cut 3-inch circles out of poster board.
- Paint the circles (gold, silver, and copper).
- Punch a hole near the edge of each circle using a hole punch.
- Cut lengths of ribbon about 24 inches long and string the ribbon through the hole in the medals. Tie a knot at the ends.
Olympic Refreshments
Provide 100% juice frozen pops for the competitors. They will work up quite a sweat. Also have trail mix or other healthy snacks that they can eat to replenish nutrients.
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