Are you looking for fun ways to beat the heat this Summer with your kids? We were introduced to Duck, Duck, Splash, the perfect Summer Children’s Game, during my daughters end of year school party and all the kids loved it.
It’s a really fun outdoor water play game that is simple and perfect for warm days. When I taught it to the kids, I watched them play about 6 rounds before moving on to something else. Anything that can keep multiple-aged kids occupied that long is a win in my book!
You’ll hear plenty of laughing and giggling and not a screen or other electronic in sight – just enjoying each others company on a beautiful, warm day.
This summer children’s game is easy and fun for preschool and middle school children! It is just a wetter take on the original Duck, Duck, Goose children’s game. I think it’d also be perfect for summer birthday parties!
How to Play Duck, Duck, Splash
Grab a pitcher or bucket of water and set it aside. Have three or more children (and adults!) sit in a circle.
Pick a person to be “it”. Hand them a cup with water in it – it is up to you how much you want to get wet. It can be a splash or a soak.
The person that is “it” goes around the circle tapping the people sitting on the head and saying, “Duck.” But instead of saying “Goose!”, the person that is “it” pours the cup of water onto the seated persons head and runs for it!
The person that got soaked jumps up to chase the person that is “it”. If the person that poured the water makes it all the way around the circle and back to the empty spot, they are safe and the person that got soaked is now “it”. If they are tagged, then they continue on as being the person that is “it” and go around the circle to soak another person.
We use warm water, although, as you can see in the clip above, sometimes it’s fun to fill the pot with cold water and totally surprise someone! The kids usually think it is HILARIOUS.
Safety Tips for Duck Duck Splash
Duck Duck Splash is all about laughter, movement, and a whole lot of water—but like any game involving running and slippery surfaces, safety should always come first. Here are a few simple tips to keep the fun going without any ouch moments:
1. Choose a Soft, Slip-Safe Surface
Play on grass or a splash pad—not pavement. Wet grass is softer and reduces the risk of bumps and bruises from slips and falls.
2. Use Gentle Water Tools
Stick to small buckets or soft plastic cups—no hard or heavy containers.
3. Set a Splash Zone
Designate the playing area and keep it free of obstacles like lawn furniture, garden tools, or uneven ground. This keeps kids from tripping as they run around.
4. Supervision = More Fun
An adult nearby means quick help if someone falls, but it also means better game coordination—and maybe even some silly referee commentary.
What are the Benefits of this Summer Game?
As discussed, it gets the kids outside and away from electronics. Additionally, it promotes physical activity, improves social skills, and encourages creativity and imagination.
If you want to make it a day of water games, you could add in water balloon toss, sponge relay races, ice painting, or the old-school DIY backyard sprinkler fun!
Have you ever heard of this game? Kids think it is the greatest and especially love when the adults play.
Have you ever heard of this game? Kids think it is the greatest and especially love when the adults play.
Looking for other fun things to do with Plastic Cups this summer?
I can use these simple games at camp.
Thank you