DIY Backyard Family Games
This playbook describes the steps to create exciting DIY backyard games that families can enjoy together. It includes instructions for bean bag toss, giant Jenga, and lawn bowling.
Step 1: Materials Collection
Gather all necessary materials for each game. For bean bag toss, collect fabric, beans, wood, screws, and paint. For giant Jenga, acquire 54 pieces of 2x4 lumber and sandpaper. For lawn bowling, find ten plastic bottles and a soccer ball.
Step 2: Bean Bag Crafting
Cut the fabric into squares, sew three sides, fill with beans, and sew the fourth side to create the bean bags. Use vivid colors for visibility.
Step 3: Board Assembly
Construct the bean bag toss boards by cutting wood into two rectangles, creating a hole in one end, and attaching the folding legs. Sand and paint as desired.
Step 4: Jenga Preparation
Cut the 2x4 lumber into 54 identically-sized blocks. Sand all edges and surfaces to prevent splinters. Optionally, paint some blocks for a colorful set.
Step 5: Jenga Gameplay Setup
Stack the Jenga blocks in sets of three, alternating directions with each layer, to create a stable tower.
Step 6: Bowling Pins Setup
Fill the plastic bottles with enough sand or water to weigh them down and arrange them in a traditional bowling pin formation at one end of the lawn.
Step 7: Game Rules Introduction
Introduce and explain the rules for each game to all participants to ensure fair play and enjoyment.
Step 8: Gameplay Commencement
Start playing the games in rounds, allowing each family member to participate and keep score as needed.
Step 9: Safety Inspection
Regularly inspect the games for any safety hazards such as loose screws, splinters, or unstable setups, and fix any issues immediately.
General Notes
Supervision
Always supervise young children during gameplay to ensure safety and fair play.
Weather Consideration
Check the weather in advance and plan for games that can withstand the weather conditions, or have alternative indoor options ready.
Storage
Consider how to store the games when not in use to prevent damage from weather and to keep your backyard tidy.