Here are three classic recess games my students enjoy, and instructions for creating a well-stocked recess cart so kids have access to playful, active options.
One of my priorities this year has been to make recess more engaging and active. Students are required to be outside for recess, but without guidance many choose to stand or sit. As a PE teacher, I’ve focused on simple, practical steps to encourage movement and play during that time.
My first step was assembling a dedicated recess cart stocked with equipment. The school provided the cart itself, and I filled it using surplus equipment from the gym and a few targeted purchases. I introduced the cart to every class during the first week of school and reviewed expectations for care and sharing. I described it as a “recess library” where students can check out equipment to use and return when they are done. The cart is supervised by a recess aide so items are monitored and circulation remains orderly.
After every PE lesson I try to emphasize activities that translate well to recess. When students enjoy an activity in class, I point out how they could play a similar game at recess. My goal is to expand their idea of what active recess can look like — you don’t have to join a full soccer match to be moving; there are many other options for keeping active.
Recently I’ve reintroduced a few classic playground games that many students had never learned properly. These games are easy to teach, require little setup, and appeal across grade levels.
Recess Games You Can Teach the Kids
- Four Square — This game is a perennial favorite. I only had to go over the basic rules and court setup. Four Square encourages quick movement, hand-eye coordination, and simple strategy, and it works well with just one ball and chalk or tape to mark the squares.
- Tetherball — Our tetherballs had been neglected because students were sitting on them and breaking the ropes. After the custodian repaired them, I taught the correct way to play. Tetherball is excellent for individual play and short matches; once kids learn the rules they get very excited, and it’s a great addition to the cart.
- Hopscotch — I learned a competitive variation at a conference and taught the “kick-out” method to older students. Initially I received a few eye rolls from fifth and sixth graders, but once they experienced the challenge and rhythm of the game they were hooked. Hopscotch builds balance, coordination, and concentration, and it’s accessible to many students who prefer less contact-driven activities.
When I introduce a new activity in PE, students often ask whether the equipment will be available on the recess cart. Making it available encourages carryover and gives kids the freedom to choose active options during unstructured time.
We purchased our recess cart through a school equipment supplier and found good deals by watching clearance offerings. The cart is sturdy and mobile, which makes it easy to store and deploy. I had a large inventory of balls and small equipment from PE class that allowed me to stock the cart without much additional expense. If your school budget is limited, consider asking your PTA or parent group for support; a shared, visible resource like this is an easy sell because it directly benefits student wellness and activity.
The Recess Game Cart Includes:
- Basketballs
- Soccer balls
- Kickballs
- Tetherballs
- Pinnies for team play
- Flags for flag football
- Footballs
- Cones for drills and boundaries
- Hula hoops
- Jump ropes
- Hoppy taws (small bouncing toys)
- Hacky sacks
- Small rubber playground balls
- Frisbees
The cart has been extremely popular. The recess aide manages checkouts and helps ensure equipment is returned and maintained. This system has made recess more active, given students more choices, and helped engage kids who might otherwise stay on the sidelines. For students who need a lower-key option, items like jump ropes, hula hoops, or hopscotch provide movement without the intensity of team sports.
Encouraging active recess takes a little planning, but small investments in equipment and clear expectations pay off. Teach a few classic games, stock a visible recess cart, and give students the chance to try different activities — you’ll likely see more movement, more smiles, and a more positive recess culture.
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