What Parachute Games Are
Parachute games use a large, round, brightly colored play parachute with handles or a stitched edge. Players stand around the edge, hold on, and lift or lower the fabric together. Because everyone works together, parachute play is common in schools, daycares, after-school clubs and youth groups. It is a good indoor option in a gym or large hall, and it needs very little instruction.
Getting Started
The Basic Grip and Positions
- Spread the parachute flat on the floor and have players stand evenly around the edge.
- Everyone holds the edge with both hands, using an overhand grip or the handles if the chute has them.
- Players take a step back until the fabric is fairly tight.
- Practice a few moves: waves (small, fast ripples), big lifts (raise hands high together), and lowering (bring the fabric down slowly).
Simple Commands
Agree on a few calls so the group moves together, such as “up,” “down,” “shake” and “freeze.” Short, predictable commands make the activity easier to manage with younger players.
Easy Games to Start With
Mushroom
Everyone lifts the parachute high together so it fills with air like a dome. Then players step in and pull the edge behind them so they sit inside the “mushroom.” Do this with a count so everyone moves at the same moment. An adult should watch to make sure nobody gets tangled.
Popcorn
Place soft balls, such as foam or fabric balls, on the chute. Players shake it so the balls “pop” up. The goal is to keep them bouncing, and you can challenge the group to see how many stay on.
Merry-Go-Round
With everyone holding on, walk in one direction around the circle, then switch direction on a signal. This helps younger children practice listening and moving in time.
Waves and Weather
Call out weather such as “light rain” for gentle shaking and “storm” for big movements. Players match their speed to the call.
Games With Roles
Cat and Mouse
One player (the mouse) crawls under the chute and another (the cat) crawls on top. The group makes small waves to hide the mouse. Keep play gentle and swap players often.
Keepy-Uppy
Toss a light ball onto the chute and work as a team to keep it in the air or on the fabric. Add a second ball to raise the challenge.
Shark
A “shark” moves under the parachute and gently tugs a player’s feet. Caught players become sharks. Set a rule that tugging must be light and limited to a quick tap.
Number Swap
Give each player a number. Lift the parachute high and call two numbers. Those players walk under and swap places before the chute comes down. Make sure there is adult supervision and enough room.
Safety Notes
- Use a clear, flat space with no obstacles and enough room for the parachute and the group.
- Keep play at a walking pace under the chute to avoid collisions.
- Younger children may need an adult watching the underside, especially during Mushroom and Shark.
- Use soft balls only, and remove jewelry or loose items that could snag.
- Stop if someone is upset or hurt. Parachute play is meant to be cooperative.
What Players Practice
Parachute play encourages cooperation, listening to directions, taking turns and coordinated movement. It also works as a warm-up before other group games, such as the ones in our guide to indoor games for youth. Camp leaders can also use it on a wet day; see rainy day games for camp.
No Parachute? Try a Substitute
A large flat bedsheet or lightweight tablecloth can stand in for a few games like Popcorn or waves, although it will have no handles and may be harder to grip. Use something sturdy and keep the group smaller.
FAQ
How many people do you need? Play parachutes suit a range of group sizes, often somewhere around 8 to 20, but check what your product recommends.
What ages is it good for? It is often used with young children, though older kids also enjoy the more active versions.
How do you stop it getting boring? Rotate games every few minutes and let players suggest new commands or roles.