Kick the Can Game

Kick the Can is a classic outdoor game that works well in Scouting programs. It encourages Scouts to move around, think fast, and work together. It doesn’t need any special equipment—just a can and some space to run. This makes it a good choice for den meetings, campouts, and patrol time.

The game is fun and active. It combines elements of hide and seek with tag. One Scout guards the can while the others hide. The goal is to kick the can before getting tagged. It keeps Scouts moving and makes them think about strategy and teamwork.

Kick the Can is easy to explain. Even young Scouts can learn it quickly. Older Scouts can lead the game for younger ones, giving them a chance to practice leadership. It works for a wide range of ages and can be adjusted for group size and skill level.

This is a good game when you need a simple activity with little setup. It keeps Scouts outside and engaged. It’s great for burning off energy during or after a meeting. It also helps build connections among the Scouts in your pack, troop, or crew.

Kick the Can has been around for a long time. Kids were playing versions of it in the early 1900s. Some say it started in the United States during the Great Depression. Others think it came from older games in Europe. Either way, it became a popular choice for children looking for something fun to do outside.

The game was easy to set up. A group of kids could use any kind of can or bucket. There was no need to buy anything. That made it perfect for families with little money. It also helped that it could be played almost anywhere—on sidewalks, in fields, or around houses.

Kick the Can was most popular before video games and smartphones. It gave kids a reason to go outside. It was a way to see friends and stay active. Many parents and grandparents today remember playing it when they were young.

The game also shows up in books and movies. It was featured on TV shows like The Twilight Zone, which shows how well known it was. Some towns even held Kick the Can tournaments during festivals. It was more than a game—it was a part of local life in many places.

Kick the Can fits right in with Scouting. It’s active, it’s social, and it doesn’t need a lot of gear. It brings Scouts together in a way that’s simple and fun. And for some leaders and parents, it’s a nice bit of childhood memory, too.

Kick the Can is not just fun—it helps Scouts learn useful skills. It encourages thinking ahead and working as a team. Scouts hiding from the guard often plan together. They look for ways to distract the guard so someone can kick the can. This builds teamwork and strategy.

The game also helps Scouts practice being brave. It takes courage to make a run for the can while someone is trying to tag you. Scouts learn to take chances and support each other. It’s a good way to build confidence in a safe setting.

Scouts also practice being loyal and helpful. If someone gets tagged and caught, others can try to free them by kicking the can. They are not just playing for themselves. They are thinking about others, which connects to the Scout Law. Being loyal and helpful are key parts of that law.

Kick the Can works best for ages 8 and up. Cub Scouts in the Bear or Webelos ranks enjoy the challenge. Older Scouts still like it, especially at camp. For younger Cub Scouts, you can shorten the rounds or give them more chances to kick the can.

If you have a large group, you can use more than one can or split into smaller groups. This keeps everyone active and makes the game move faster. Leaders can also rotate who guards the can to give each Scout a chance to practice different roles.

Even though it’s simple, Kick the Can gives Scouts a lot to talk about afterward. They can share what worked and what didn’t. That kind of thinking helps them grow, both in Scouting and outside of it.

Equipment / Materials Needed

• One empty can or plastic container
• A large outdoor space with places to hide (trees, bushes, picnic tables, etc.)

Setup Instructions

1. Choose a flat area with good hiding spots around it.
2. Place the can in an open space at the center of the play area.
3. Pick one Scout to be the guard.
4. The rest of the Scouts are the hiders.

Game Play Instructions

1. The guard stands by the can and closes their eyes. They count to 20 or 30 while the others run and hide.
2. After counting, the guard begins looking for the hidden Scouts.
3. If the guard sees someone, they must tag them and say their name. The tagged Scout goes to the holding area, near the can.
4. The goal for the hiders is to sneak out and kick the can without getting tagged.
5. If a Scout kicks the can, all captured Scouts are freed and can hide again.
6. If the guard tags all Scouts before anyone kicks the can, the guard wins.
7. After each round, pick a new guard and start over.

Variations and Safety Notes

• For younger Scouts, let them take turns being the guard more often.
• Use a plastic container instead of a metal can to avoid sharp edges.
• Set boundaries so Scouts don’t hide too far away.
• Make sure the hiding area is safe—no holes, sharp objects, or poison ivy.
• Remind Scouts to watch where they run to avoid bumps or falls.

Keep it fun, fair, and active. This game works best with at least 5 players.

Printable instructions for How to Play Kick the Can

Classic Outdoor Games

A classic outdoor game theme is a great fit for Cub Scout meetings and campouts. These games help Scouts stay active while learning important skills like teamwork, listening, and following rules. Games like Kick the Can, Steal the Bacon, and Capture the Flag are simple to set up and easy to understand. They also keep Scouts moving and working together.

Outdoor games also help Scouts grow in character. They learn to be helpful, friendly, and kind while playing with others. These activities build confidence and friendship. They also help Scouts enjoy and respect nature. Classic outdoor games make it easy to have fun while learning and living the Scout Law.

More Games

Kick the Can is just one of many games that work well in Scouting. If you’re looking for more ideas, I’ve put together a collection of simple and active games that are great for meetings, campouts, and outdoor time. These games help keep Scouts engaged and moving. Most of them need little or no equipment.

You can find more options on my Games for Scouts page. It includes games for all age levels and group sizes. Whether you need something quick for a den meeting or a longer activity for camp, there’s something there that will fit your needs. Take a look and try a new game at your next event.

The Importance of Games in Scouting

What age group is best for Kick the Can?

Kick the Can works well for ages 8 and up. Older Cub Scouts can pick it up quickly. Scouts BSA and Venturers can enjoy it too, especially in a large outdoor space.

How many players do you need?

You need at least 5 players to make it fun. More players make the game more exciting and give more chances to hide and run.

What kind of can should I use?

Use a clean, empty can or a plastic container. A plastic bucket or jug works well and is safer than a metal can.

Where can we play Kick the Can?

You need a space with open ground and some hiding spots. A field with trees, a campsite, or a park can work. Set boundaries so everyone knows where they can go.

Is this a safe game?

Yes, if you choose a safe area. Check for holes, sharp objects, and poison ivy. Remind Scouts to watch where they run and take turns fairly.

Can we change the rules?

Yes. You can adjust the rules for younger Scouts or large groups. Use more than one can or allow extra time to hide. Make it fit your group.

Kick the Can is a classic game that still works great for today’s Scouts. It mixes running, hiding, and quick thinking. It’s a fun way to spend time outside and works well for all levels of Scouting. The game doesn’t need much—just a can and a good space to run and hide.

The game starts with one Scout guarding the can while the others hide. The guard tries to tag the other Scouts before they can kick the can. If someone kicks the can, the tagged Scouts are freed. If all the hiders get caught, the guard wins. Then a new round begins.

Kick the Can teaches teamwork and problem-solving. It also helps Scouts practice parts of the Scout Law like being loyal and helpful. It’s easy to adjust the rules based on age or group size. You can use it at meetings, campouts, or free time at camp.

This game has been around for generations. Many parents and leaders remember playing it when they were kids. It’s simple, fun, and gets everyone moving. Scouts enjoy the challenge, and leaders like that it’s low-prep and active.