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olympic torch
The Summer Olympic Games are fun to watch on television but you can really get kids involved in the spirit of competition by hosting your own Olympic Games.
Prior to the participating in the "sporting events", have kids make flags, torches, signs and mascots for their team. A simple model torch can be fashioned out of a cardboard tube covered in aluminum foil with red and orange tissue paper coming out of the top to represent the flame. Also allow kids to accessorize their favorite stuffed animal to be the mascot for their team.
Once they have created their Olympic paraphernalia, allow them to dress in team colors or special outfits to have a special opening ceremony parade.
Upon completion of the opening ceremony, kids can compete in indoor and outdoor activities. Here are some ideas for events:
Indoor Events
- beanbag games
- bowling
- simple gymnastics
- obstacle course
- discus (using paper plates)
- paper airplane design and toss
Outdoor Events
- basketball
- discus using Frisbees
- relay races (egg and spoon race is a favorite)
- swimming races (if you have access to a pool)
- volleyball using a beach ball
- obstacle course
- long jump
When all events are complete, give out medals to all participants. Medals can be made out of cardboard, aluminum foil, play dough, etc. One idea is to place a piece of yard through a doughnut and use that as a medal. Kids will love to eat this sweet reward when the games have come to an end!