Learn how to make this DIY easy kids party game!
Do you need another activity for your kid’s birthday party? Or maybe you’re in charge of providing a children’s game for a church or community event? Friends, let me show you my go-to easy kids’ game for just such a thing!
Character corn hole! Ok, so it’s not really corn hole. You don’t have to use corn feed filled bags to toss, after all. But it’s the same idea — a simple toss game that is fun for everyone. And so easy to customize!
The example I’m showing you here is one I made for my daughter’s Frozen birthday party, so of course, it has Elsa on it. But you can make this with any character you want; having a Toy Story party? Make a Buzz Lightyear one! Valentine’s party? Make a Cupid! If you can think it, you can make it.
Learn how to draw any character here.
This works great using a big cardboard box to start with, or you can use a piece of foam board. For the toss game I made in this tutorial, I used foam board because I wanted it to stand upright. And because I had an extra piece of foam board just sitting around needing to be used, haha.
I’ll explain the cardboard box method, too. I think that one is actually easier for most kids’ parties. Plus, you don’t have to find something to lean it against.
So let’s get started!
How to make an easy kids’ toss game
- First, plan what it is you want to make. You need to think about what picture/design you want on your game, where you want the hole(s) to go, and what you want to toss in your game.
For example, with my Elsa toss game, I used large white pom-pom balls since they look like snowballs. Or when I made a Christmas tree toss game, I used those plastic ball pit balls and called it an “Ornament Toss.” What you choose to toss in your game will help you know how big you need to make the hole(s).
2. Next, prepare your box. Using box cutters, cut the box in half by slicing diagonally from corner to the opposite corner on the longer sides of the box. Then cut along the two short edges of the box that connect where you started and stopped cutting diagonally.
It’s a bit confusing to explain in words, so here’s a picture to show you what I mean. You cut where the red lines are on both sides.
Now you have 2 angled halves of a box, so you can make TWO toss games if you want! Go ahead and tape any loose flaps down so that your game is sturdy. The cut side is the bottom side that goes on the floor.
3. Next, you want to put your picture or design on the sloped side of the box (or your foam board, if you’re not using a box). You can do this however you like, but I recommend using craft paint for the cardboard box. Trying to use markers or pencils on cardboard just won’t turn out very well.
You should also cover the sides of the game if you’re using the box method. I like to just glue on wrapping paper, but you could also paint it.
*Just a reminder to make sure you think about where you want to put the hole(s) when making your picture.
If you need help drawing your picture, click here.
4. Now for adding the holes. You can do multiple or one big one – anything you want! Just use your box cutter or an X-Acto knife to cut them out. I like to draw the hole outlines on my picture before I start cutting so I have a guide to follow.
If you’re using foam board, then make sure you have something to prop it up during the party. I taped mine to my kids’ folding table.
5. Time to test it out! Try a few tosses to make sure the hole(s) are the right size. If they’re too small, just go ahead and cut them a bit bigger.
Give yourself a pat on the back! You just made a fun and unique game!
Leave a comment with what kind of toss game you want to make!
