Bandanas are a simple prop that can be used for all sorts of activities outside. You may have one lying around or you may want to grab some fun new ones like these. They may make a great hair band, dust blocker or neck accessory but why not use them to have some fun??!!
Are You My Mother?
Requirements: 1 bandana/player pair, open space.
This fun animal related activity requires at least 7 people (3 pairs and a Guide) but the more the merrier. The premise of the game is that mothers know the sound of their babies. Participants will divide up into pairs and decide on a secret call that will be their own. It could be a real animal sound or a made up one.
Once each group has decided on their call, players will return to a central area and one member of each team will put on the bandana as a blindfold. When the guide yells “Go!” the non-blindfolded players will spread out in a predetermined area and begin making their call. The players with blindfolds will use their listening skills to find their way to their mother. The guide will make sure participants are safe. Switch up the blindfolds for the next round.
Reflection: How did it feel to be blindfolded? Was it easy or hard to hear your call? What would you do differently next time?
Nature Memory
Requirements: 2 bandanas, various nature items, timer, paper and pencils
This game is a test of visual memory. The guide will set up the game but spreading out one bandana on a flat area and collecting 10-20 items they find in the surrounding area. It can be sticks, flowers, rocks, random trash etc. They will then lay these items out on the bandana and cover them with the other bandana. Players will gather around the bandana and the guide will remove the top bandana and start the timer for 15 seconds and then immediately cover up the items. Players will then write down as many items as they can remember.
Fun Variation: After players have looked at the items for 15 seconds, instead of writing them down, they will have 2 minutes to walk around the area and try to find the same (or at least similar) items and bring them back to the bandana. The guide can reveal the items and see who found the most matching items.
Capture The Flag
Requirements: 2 bandanas, 2 teams, large outdoor area
This classic outdoor game is great for groups looking for something to do. It can be done in a backyard or go to a wooded area for more of a challenge. Make sure and agree on boundaries. For specific game directions go here or this video.
Foxtails
Requirements: One bandana/player, 3+ players.
This twist on flag football is a fun way to get out some summer energy! Each player has a bandana that they tuck into their waistband. Everyone is “it!” The goal is to grab other players’ bandanas while protecting your own. Once your bandana is gone, you’re out. The last one standing is the winner.
Blind Architect
Requirements: Bandana, wooden blocks or Jenga blocks.
The object of this game is to see how well players can build while blindfolded. This can be played with multiple players or practiced on one’s own. The “architect” sits blindfolded in front of a pile of blocks on a flat surface. The goal is to see how many blocks you can stack before the structure topples. If a player is solo, they will have to keep track of the number as they are building.
Explorer Packs
Requirements: Bandana, snacks, rope, rope tying book or activities of choice.
Bandanas make a great day pack. Tie all four corners together and hook on a stick or slide it into your backpack. Gather items such as a pbj, trail mix, pretzels, an apple, as well as a rope and a knot tying guide and head out into the wilderness (or the imaginary wilderness in your own backyard!) Good snacks for the trail are items that won’t melt, don’t require refrigeration, and stand up well to a little adventure.