3 Fun Basketball Games for Kids
Its true, basketball is a competitive sport, but basketball for kids is also about having fun! While competing and training do advance kids basketball skills, there are many basketball games for kids that allow them to practice and have fun at the same time. In school, kids often play basketball games with their friends. Often, kids get into a routine when playing basketball. They go to practice and play in leagues each week. These are excellent practice for kids to gain more skills and to get game play. In order to keep the game interesting though, it’s important to mix up how they are learning and practicing. Adding games that they can play with friends or on their own allows the routine to be broken up and provides a fun outlet for them to practice.
H-O-R-S-E
H-O-R-S-E is probably one of the most well-known basketball games that kids play. It’s been around on playground forever and allows a group of kids to practice their shooting skills. To play, the players take turns shooting the ball into the hoop. When a player makes a basket, they spell out the work HORSE. The first successful shot gives the player the word, H, the second shot the word O and so one. At the end, the player who has spelled the word HORSE, wins.
Around the World
This game is great for kids to practice shooting from many different places on the court. This will improve the player’s accuracy and consistency. This game requires two or more players and a single basketball. Start by picking five or more spots in an arc around the basketball net. Each players get two tries at each shot, then moves on to the next spot. If you miss after two shots, you start over from spot number one.
To make the game more difficult or better suited towards more advanced players, from the points on the arch, the player has to make a variety of different shots before moving to the next spot. An example would be a player making a layup, a shot from the free throw line, 20-foot shot from the wing, a 3-point shot, a shot from half court and finishing with another layup. This is great practice for the player to make those shots during a game as well!
Musical Dribble
You’ve heard of musical chairs before, how about musical basketballs? This game is very similar to musical chairs but will help kids practice their basketball dribbling skills. They’ll also work on controlling and passing the ball while dribbling. The kids stand in a circle with one basketball. When the music starts, the child dribbles 3 times and passes the ball to their neighbor. When the music stops, the person holding the ball is out. Seems simple, but controlling the ball and passing while dribbling can be a challenge!
Changing up the routine in basketball will allow kids to get a change of pace and have fun while doing so. These games will still teach valuable skills that they will use on the court. They will keep their energy and focus up and be refreshed and ready to go back to competitive game play!
NetWorks Basketball in Raleigh, NC offers basketball training programs through a variety of programs, clinics, and camps for every age level. For more information, contact Kevin Nunley at (919) 233-8801.
Additional Reading
27 Basketball Drills and Games for Kids
4 Fun Basketball Dribbling Games for Young Players
