Kick the Can is an old time favorite amongst kids. It is a fun-filled game that’s a cross between Tag and Hide-n-Seek. It is a highly economical, eco-friendly and entertaining way for kids (ages 8 and up) to enjoy any outdoor gathering with family and friends. There is no purchase necessary to play. Parents can supply children with an empty can from the recycling bin at home. Parents can also choose to cover the opening of the empty can with a plastic lid, but it is not required.
This game is suitable for kids ages 8+, and it is designed for 3 or more players. The more players, the better the fun!
Object of Kick the Can
Try to get all players into jail.
Game Materials
- 1 empty, aluminum or tin can
- 1 plastic lid cover (optional)
Game Setup
- Choose a player to be “it”.
- Place an empty can (with a plastic lid cover) in the center of the yard.
- Designate a specific area of the yard to be the jail. (Jail = place where players go when they are captured by “it”).
How to Play Kick the Can
- All players start at jail.
- Person who is “it” covers his eyes.
- While “it” has eyes covered, one select player kicks the can as far as s/he can.
- Once the can has been kicked, “it” counts (slowly) up to 20 (with eyes still covered).
- All players (except “it”) run and hide.
- Player “it” runs to retrieve the can and places it upright, back in its original location (in center of yard). Then “it” searches for the other players.
- When “it” finds a player, “it” runs to tap the can (with his foot or hand) and yells “I see player (name) hiding behind the (location).”
- Each player whose name and location is called out “correctly” must report to jail.
If a player thinks that “it” has spotted him and is about to call him out of hiding (to go to jail), that player can run and kick the can. If that player kicks the can before “it” reaches the can and taps him out, that player is free to hide again. If “it” reaches the can first and calls out that player’s name and location, then that player must go to jail.
Players in jail may be rescued and released at any time during the game by any player who has not yet been found. In order to rescue captives, a player must come out of hiding and kick the can before “it” reaches the can. If successful, all captives are released and “it” has to find them all again.
How to Win Kick the Can
“It” wins the game when s/he captures all the players and places them in jail.
Games can also be timed (example: 15 min.). For timed games, choose a different player to be “it” for each 15 min. game. The winner is determined by comparing game results. Whichever “it” catches the most prisoners in the allotted time is the overall winner.
Caution for Parents and Players
- Read full game instructions before playing.
- Always follow game instructions carefully.
- Sharp edges! Never put hands or fingers inside empty can.
- Keep materials away from small children.
- Adult supervision is recommended.
- This game is not suitable for children under the age of 8 years.
- Play in a safe place away from cars.
- Do not play in the street.
Kick the Can Game Variations and Suggestions
- “It” can select a higher number to count up to before s/he searches for other players.
- Place jail in clear view of the can so captives will know (immediately) when they are set free.
- Participants may prefer “it” to touch-tag players instead of merely calling out names and locations.
Kick the Can is an activity that’s filled with suspense and excitement. This environmentally-friendly game encourages child-to-child interaction and support, as well as sharing and leadership skills. Children will get plenty of physical exercise and fresh air as they enjoy hours at play: running, hiding, and kicking the can. Remember there is no purchase necessary to play – just add kids, an empty can, and a whole lot of fun!
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