The legends tell us that hopscotch was created thousands of years ago for roman soldiers to test their skills and strength. However, for years it has also been knowing as a classic school yard game for kids and even adults young at heart.
Hopscotch is a social game that teaches kids hand eye coordination, agility, and playing outdoors.
Even if you do not know the official rules, most likely you have seen the hop scotch boxes drawn or painted on many courtyards or driveways around the world.
Before we get into the official rules, the team at backyard games does not take Hopscotch easy. In fact, the pictures below are from our annual camping games where we compete for the prized hopscotch trophy. We have competitions of hopscotch and horseshoes.
I am not sure why I wanted to show you these photos, other then the fact that you can know that every article here is written from our hearts.
How to Setup Your Hopscotch and Size Of Squares
For younger children with smaller feet, you may want to do the course with 1 Foot Squares so they do not have to jump as far.
Please see the image below for the layout of the squares.
Hopscotch Rules
The goal in hopscotch is to be the first player to move there piece through all the spaces and back. As you see the numbered square, when it is your turn you pick up your piece and attempt to throw it in the next square.
Everyone starts from square 1, and try to throw into square 2. If your price lands in this square (without touching the sidelines) you then attempt to hop all the way through to the other end. Then from behind you can now through to 3, then 4, and so on.
If you make it through all the way, you come back towards the starting line picking your piece up on the way. In order to win, you need to be the first player to make it all the way and back before anyone else has. If at any point you step in a square that has a piece in it, touch a line, or any other fouls will forfeit your turn to the next player.
- Each player has their unique piece while starting in square 1
- Players draw cards for random numbers to see who goes first
- When it is your turn, pickup your piece from square 1 and throw it ahead one square.
- Must hop on one foot (without changing) the entire way of the court.
- Only exception to put 2 feet down is when you see the squares side by side
- Can not step in square that has players piece in it or touch any lines
- Must hop all the way to the other side, and on way back pickup piece before jumping out
- When picking up your piece, if there is no other piece in that square you will have to step in it before jumping out.
- If your piece does not land in proper square, or commit a foul, you do not move ahead to the square. If you have picked up your piece, but miss the throw, you go back 1 square.
- First player to make it all the way through and back wins.
How to Play Hopscotch Summary
However, most kids just having fun jumping and throwing their pieces without ever playing any of the rules.
If you are looking for other outdoor games for kids or birthday party ideas there are some more games your kids will love.
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