Overview
At first glance this game doesn't have much to it, but it is definitely a hit, especially with the younger crowd! Players sit around laughing "yo-ho-ho" just like pirates do. Something about this is so silly it generates tons of laughter. All you need is one balloon and a bunch of eager kids.
Age
Preschool, School-age, TweensNumber of Players
5 to 10, 10 to 20Team Division
Every man for himself (individual players)Competitiveness
Either/or (can be played either way)Difficulty
Easy peasy (fun and simple)Indoor or Outdoor
EitherSpace Needed
Small (a clearable open space the size of a 1-car garage), Medium (a clearable open space the size of a 2-car garage)Noise Level
Semi-rambunctiousMess Factor
Clean and tidyPrep Time
5 minutes or lessGame Time Length
5 - 15 minutesSupplies
Setup
1. Blow up a few 11 inch balloons.
2. Have all the children sit in a circle. They are the Captain's crew.
3. One person is selected to be the Ship's Captain. They stand in the center of the circle.
4. Hand the Ship Captain a balloon.
How to Play
1. The Captain throws the balloon into the air.
2. While the balloon is airborne the crew must laugh: “Yo-ho-ho!” Over and over again.
3. When the balloon hits the ground everyone must be silent... anyone still yo-ho-ing must walk the plank!
4. The crew members that have to walk the plank can either be out of the game, or, they can continue to play. It's your choice to determine if one person will be a winner or not. Sometimes it's fun to let everyone keep laughing yo-ho yo-ho!
Variations
"Yo-ho-ho" can be altered to fit any theme or occasion.
"Ho-ho-ho" for Christmas.
" Meow, meow, meow" for a kitty party.
"Swimming motions" for an Under the Sea Party.
"Boo boo boo" for Halloween.
Any animal sound for a camping trip.
The options are endless...!
Tips
The Captain may keep the balloon in the air with his/her hands. Only when it hits the ground does the crew stop laughing.
The "plank" is basically a balance beam.
Walking the plank- to create a plank lay a 2 x 4 (about 6 feet in length) on either two cinder blocks, bricks, or large books (just make sure that the 2 x 4 is secure and not wobbly. The bricks should be at each end of the 2 x 4, not in the middle). A guide may be used and spotters can be on hand to keep anyone from falling. Remember, safety first, so if this seems too daunting for your kids, a simple 2 x 4 in the grass can do, or even a tape line on the floor (just make sure you use tape that will come up easily).