Icebreaker Games for Kids
Icebreakers for kids need to be simple, a bit silly and quick. These work for kindergarten and elementary classes, summer camp, scouts and birthday parties.
Young children love to move, so mix a sitting question round with a standing game like would you rather corners.
- Group size
- 4 to 30 children
- Suggested time
- 5 to 15 minutes
- You need
- One phone, tablet or laptop (a TV helps for big groups)
Games for kids 5
Easy to explain in one minute.
Questions for kids 2
Favorites, silly what-ifs and all about me.
No-prep icebreaker activities
Quick ideas that need nothing but the people in the room.
Simon says, get to know you
“Simon says hop if you like pizza.” Kids learn about each other while they move.
Pass the ball
Sit in a circle and pass a soft ball. Whoever catches it says their name and their favorite animal.
Draw your answer
Ask one question and have children draw the answer, then show their pictures.
Color candy game (no candy)
Use the candy color icebreaker on a screen so nobody needs to eat sweets.
How to run it with a group
- Read every question out loud and give your own answer first as an example.
- Pair pre-readers with an older buddy for bingo.
- On a projector or TV: open the game in a laptop browser and share the screen. One person taps for the room.
- Never make a child answer: “pass” is always fine.
More ice breakers See all
FAQ
What are good icebreakers for kids?
Short, playful ones: favorites questions, would you rather, pass the ball, kids bingo and the dice game. Keep them under ten minutes.
What icebreakers work for kindergarten?
Pass the ball with names, draw your answer and the Kid Favorites questions read aloud. Use pictures and movement rather than writing.
Are there icebreakers for a kids birthday party?
Yes. Kids bingo and would you rather work well while guests arrive, then switch to charades or riddles.