Hawaiian-themed games for kids offer insight into Hawaiian culture. While it's easy to recreate the "limbo" stick game and have everyone see how low they can go, other games can be educational. Children can learn about the skills Hawaiian warriors needed for success in one exercise, or learn parts of the Hawaiian language in another. Give the players lei flower necklaces and grass skirts to add to the atmosphere of these Hawaiian games. Does this Spark an idea?
Spear Throwing
Ancient Hawaiian culture celebrated warriors and hunters who were able to protect villages and provide food with accurate spear throwing. The warriors also held friendly spear throwing competitions. For a safe version for little kids, decorate a watermelon with fake ears and a curly tail to resemble a pig. Ancient Hawaiians often hunted wild boar for feasts. Set the watermelon on a small table and have the kids try to toss darts into it.
Foot Races
Sometimes the most effective warrior was the fastest runner. In Ancient Hawaii, warriors used to hold foot races to train for the big hunt. Take this idea and "run" with it. Hold individual races, three-legged races and backward running races for some different variations on this traditional Hawaiian game.
Stone Toss
Ancient Hawaiians played a game with stones similar to horseshoes. In the Hawaiian language, this game is known as 'ulu maika. Mount a small stick post in the ground and collect a variety of stones from the backyard. Each player chooses a stone to toss at the stick.
Hawaiian Language Game
Look up the Hawaiian word for items around the party. Examples include table (pakaukau), chairs (noho), punch (wai hua'ai), door (puka) and tree (la'au). Post tags on each item identifying the Hawaiian word for it. Start to use the Hawaiian words in place of English words as you speak. When everyone has learned the words, remove the signs. Say the Hawaiian words and ask players to point to or race to the item.
Tags: Ancient Hawaiians, Hawaiian culture, Hawaiian language, Hawaiian word, Hawaiian words