Getting kids to commit their lives to Jesus is a challenge, but it is also gratifying. Helping them grow in their faith will set them up to do great things. However, anyone who has ever attempted to host a youth group event knows that entertaining and reaching preteens and teens is a real David versus Goliath situation.
So let us put a few stones in your slings. These game ideas are sure to grab their attention, make them have fun, and above all grow a little closer to God. Hallelujah!
Games to Help You Entertain and Impact Your Youth Group
No matter what game or activity you choose, getting kids’ attention and presenting something that they are interested in is always a challenge. These games feature a good framework of unique and active contests to keep them engaged. Remember that providing some cool rewards and presenting a genuine challenge will go a long way in making your youth group a success. Now on to the list:
Bible Scavenger Hunt
A Bible scavenger hunt is a fantastic game for youth groups, helping participants become more familiar with the different books of the Bible and their content. The concept is simple and engaging. Each player needs a Bible or their trusty Bible app (but using the search feature is cheating!). The game leader gives a prompt, such as, “Find a verse in the Old Testament that includes the word ‘olive.'”
Everyone searches their Bible and raises their hand when they find a matching verse. The first person to raise their hand gets the chance to read the verse aloud. If the verse indeed contains the requested word, phrase, or idea, they win that round. To make the game even more exciting, you can offer multiple requests at once, and participants raise their hands when they find all the required verses.
This game is not only fun and challenging but also spiritually enriching. It encourages participants to explore their Bibles, deepening their knowledge and understanding of scripture in an interactive and enjoyable way.
Mystery Box Game
The Mystery Box Game is a delightful activity for youth groups, blending suspense and sensory exploration to create a fun and engaging experience. Here’s how it works:
Prepare boxes with random objects inside, including a mix of ordinary and unusual items. Blindfolded players take turns reaching into the box and guessing what the object is by touch alone.
This game is perfect for youth groups because it encourages participants to use their senses, think creatively, and trust their instincts. It also promotes a fun and relaxed atmosphere, allowing group members to bond over the excitement and surprise of the game. By providing a variety of objects to identify, the Mystery Box Game keeps everyone intrigued and entertained, making it a memorable and enjoyable activity for all.
DIY Escape Room
A DIY Escape Room is an exciting and immersive activity for youth groups, combining problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. Here’s how it works:
Create a custom escape room filled with puzzles, locks, and clues tailored to the interests of the kids. Add props and a storyline to make the experience more engaging. Participants must work together to solve the puzzles and follow the storyline to “escape” within a set time limit.
This activity is ideal for youth groups because it promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. It challenges participants to use their skills and creativity to solve problems, all while fostering a sense of unity and teamwork. The immersive experience and engaging storyline make the DIY Escape Room a thrilling and memorable activity, encouraging youth group members to think outside the box and work together towards a common goal.
Here are some ideas for your escape room themes:
- Escape Pottifer’s Palace (Genesis 39)
- David escaping from Saul (1 Samuel 19-23)
- Help David escape the palace after his son Absalom stages a coup. (2 Samuel chapters 13-19)
- The escape of the spies from Jericho (Joshua 2)
- Peter’s escape from prison (Acts 12)
- Paul’s escape from Damascus (Acts 9:23-25)
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Outburst: Bible Edition
Outburst: Bible Edition is an energetic and engaging game that challenges players to shout out as many answers as possible within specific faith-based categories. Each round, a topic related to the Bible is given, such as “Names of Old Testament Prophets” or “Miracles of Jesus.” Players must then brainstorm and vocalize their answers in a race against the clock.
This game is perfect for youth groups because it combines the excitement of quick thinking and rapid responses with educational content, reinforcing participants’ knowledge of scripture in a lively and interactive way. It’s a fantastic tool for learning and retaining biblical facts while promoting teamwork and communication among players.
Check out Outburst: Bible Edition
Human Knot
The Human Knot is an excellent game for youth groups, promoting teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive way. Here’s how it works:
Participants stand in a circle and reach across to grab hands with two different people, forming a “knot.” The challenge is to untangle this human knot without breaking the chain, which involves stepping over, under, or around each other.
This game is perfect for youth groups because it requires everyone to work together, communicate effectively, and think creatively to solve the problem. It also helps build trust and camaraderie among participants as they navigate the physical challenge of untangling the knot. Plus, it’s a lot of fun and provides plenty of laughs along the way!
Would You Rather: Bible Edition
Would You Rather: Bible Edition is a faith-based twist on the classic party game. Players are presented with two biblical scenarios or characters and must choose which they would rather experience or be. Examples include, “Would you rather be stranded on Malta or imprisoned with a Roman soldier?” and “Would you rather be swallowed by a giant fish or spend a night in the lions’ den?”
This game is perfect for youth groups because it provides entertainment and serves as a great conversation starter, allowing participants to explore and discuss various biblical stories and characters in a fun and engaging way.
Bible Verse Relay
The Bible Verse Relay is a fantastic game for youth groups, combining physical activity with scripture knowledge to create an engaging and educational experience. Here’s how it works:
Split the group into teams. Each team receives a set of cards with words from a Bible verse mixed up. One at a time, team members run to a designated spot, pick a card, and bring it back to their group. The team must then work together to assemble the verse correctly.
This game is great for youth groups because it encourages teamwork, quick thinking, and familiarity with Bible verses. It combines physical exercise with a mental challenge, making it an exciting and dynamic way to learn and reinforce scripture. Additionally, it fosters a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition among participants, making it a fun and memorable activity.
Minute to Win It Games
Minute to Win It Games are perfect for youth groups, offering a variety of quick, entertaining challenges that promote laughter, friendly competition, and teamwork. Here’s how it works:
Participants are given fun tasks to complete within a minute. Prepare a series of short, engaging challenges, such as stacking cups or moving a cookie from their forehead to their mouth without using their hands. Participants can compete individually or in teams, racing against the clock to complete each task.
These games are ideal for youth groups because they are fast-paced, exciting, and adaptable to any group size. They encourage participants to think on their feet, improve their coordination, and work together. Plus, the variety of challenges ensures that everyone has a great time, making these games a highlight of any youth group gathering.
Team Building Obstacle Course
A Team Building Obstacle Course is a fantastic activity for youth groups, emphasizing the importance of faith and trust through an engaging and interactive challenge. Here’s how it works:
One player is blindfolded and must navigate a complex obstacle course with the help of their teammates, who provide verbal guidance and support. The goal is to complete the course safely and efficiently, relying solely on the directions and encouragement from team members.
This activity is ideal for youth groups because it builds trust, communication, and teamwork. It teaches participants the value of having faith in others and the importance of clear and supportive communication. By working together to overcome obstacles, youth group members strengthen their bonds and gain a deeper understanding of relying on one another, making this a powerful and meaningful exercise.
Conclusion
These games and activities are perfect for creating a fun, inclusive, and faith-filled environment for youth group gatherings. They not only provide entertainment but also reinforce Christian values, teamwork, and a sense of community among participants. Give these a try at your next youth group meeting and watch your group grow closer together!
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