I get it keeping kids entertained without screens can feel like a battle. Every time you try to introduce something fun, they either lose interest in five minutes or beg for the iPad. But do you remember how we played as kids? We didn’t have screens, yet we had the best time of our lives. So, let’s bring back the fun with these engaging and nostalgic indoor games that will get kids moving, thinking, and laughing without a single screen in sight.
1. Floor is Lava
Introduction: I still remember playing this one with my cousins—jumping from sofa to chair, making sure my feet didn’t touch the “lava” (aka the floor). It was one of the most thrilling games we played indoors, and it never got old.
How to Play: The rules are simple: when someone shouts, “The floor is lava!” everyone must climb onto furniture or pillows to avoid touching the ground. The last person still on the ground is out. To make it more fun, set a countdown for players to find safety or add “safe zones” like rugs.
Conclusion: This game is an excellent way to improve balance, coordination, and problem-solving skills while making the whole house an adventure.
2. Vish Amrit (Lock & Key)
Introduction: This Indian classic is a favorite at family gatherings. One child is the “denner” and has to tag others, freezing them in place. I remember how competitive we used to get, trying to unfreeze our teammates without getting caught.
How to Play: One person is chosen as the denner. The denner chases the other players and tags them by saying “Vish,” which means poison, freezing them in their place. A frozen player can be freed when another player touches them and says “Amrit” (nectar). The game continues until all players are frozen.
Conclusion: This game builds teamwork and keeps kids active and engaged while teaching them to strategize.
3. Langdi
Introduction: Think of it as the Indian version of hopscotch tag. It’s fun, fast-paced, and a true test of agility. I played this in school, and trust me, hopping around while trying to catch someone is harder than it looks!
How to Play: Players divide into two teams. One team sends a player who must hop on one foot while trying to tag members of the other team. If the hopping player places both feet on the ground, they’re out.
Conclusion: Langdi is great for improving balance, leg strength, and endurance.
4. Seven Stones (Lagori/Sitoliya)
Introduction: This game was a staple of our childhood, blending strategy, teamwork, and action. It’s like dodgeball meets Jenga!
How to Play: One team tries to knock down a pile of seven stones with a ball, while the opposing team tries to rebuild it before being hit by the ball. If all players of the rebuilding team get hit before they can stack the stones, they lose.
Conclusion: A high-energy game that helps with aim, strategy, and teamwork.
5. Kho Kho (With Pillows!)
Introduction: We played this modified version of Kho Kho indoors when it was raining outside. Using pillows as barriers made it even more exciting!
How to Play: Kids sit in a row, and one player has to weave through them, tagging the next runner. The tagged player then has to chase the next, and so on. It’s a fast-paced, agility-boosting game.
Conclusion: This game develops quick reflexes and team coordination while providing a great cardio workout.
6. In the Pot, On the Bank
Introduction: This game is a test of attention! The leader tries to trick players with quick instructions, and we always ended up laughing when someone got confused.
How to Play: A line is drawn, representing the “bank” on one side and the “pot” on the other. Players must jump to the correct side when instructed. The trick? The leader speeds up the commands, making it harder to follow!
Conclusion: This game helps with focus, reaction time, and listening skills.
7. Dog and Bone
Introduction: The anticipation in this game was intense! We would all lean forward, ready to snatch the “bone” before the other player.
How to Play: Place an object in the center of the room. Two players from opposing teams race to grab it first while avoiding being tagged. The player who successfully grabs the bone and returns to their side wins a point.
Conclusion: It’s a fantastic way to build speed, strategy, and hand-eye coordination.
8. Chor-Sipahi (Cops & Robbers)
Introduction: This game was always full of excitement, especially when playing in a big group! It’s like hide-and-seek but with a detective twist.
How to Play: One team plays “chor” (thieves) and hides, while the other team, the “sipahi” (police), hunts them down. The game continues until all thieves are caught.
Conclusion: This game enhances strategic thinking and teamwork.
9. Hide and Seek with a Twist
Introduction: Hiding was fun, but adding challenges made it even more thrilling!
How to Play: Instead of just hiding, each child is given a “mission” to complete while hiding, like collecting a hidden object or reaching a specific spot unnoticed.
Conclusion: This version encourages creativity and problem-solving skills.
10. Maaram Pitthi (Indian Dodgeball)
Introduction: Every summer, this game was our go-to! It’s a high-energy game that keeps everyone on their toes.
How to Play: Divide players into two teams. One team throws a soft ball at the opposing team members, trying to hit them. If you get hit, you’re out! The last player standing wins.
Conclusion: It builds agility, quick reflexes, and team spirit.
These games don’t just keep kids busy—they bring families together. So next time your child says, “I’m bored,” instead of handing over a screen, introduce them to one of these timeless games. They’ll thank you for it—maybe not today, but one day when they’re telling their own kids about the fun they had growing up!