Active Participation: Fun Games and Challenges

Laundry Basket Games for Fun Friday’s Games and Challenges

For today’s fun games and challenges, all you will need is a laundry basket (or two) and either a small ball, sock ball, or frisbee. You can also use a large bin or box instead of the laundry basket, if you prefer. You may also want to have a timer or clock handy for the “Minute-to-Win It” challenges.

The “Minute-to-Win-It” challenges (Basket Catch Challenge and Toss Challenge) are games that you can play on your own or with a partner. The Basket Slam 21 Game, is a game that you will need to play with a partner.

One Person Challenge #1 – Minute-to-Win-It Basket Catch Challenge

Watch this quick video on how to do this challenge, or read the instructions below.

  • Grab a laundry basket and a sock ball (A bean bag or small ball works great, too!)
  • Turn the laundry basket upside down.
  • Place the ball on top of the upside down basket.
  • Grab the sides of the basket and give the basket a quick upward movement to toss the ball into the air, then turn the basket to try to catch the ball inside the basket. Toss, flip, catch.
  • Set a timer and see how many catches you can make in 1 minute!

One Person Challenge #2 – Minute-to-Win-It Underhand Toss Challenge

  • This is a quick challenge to play on your own or with a partner.
  • Set up a basket a few metres away (it is better if it is up against a wall).
  • Set your timer for one minute.
  • Toss the ball into the basket. Run to retrieve your ball and continue to toss and retrieve for 1 minute. How many successful tosses did you make? Challenge a family member.

Two Person Game – Laundry Basket Slam 21

Watch this video to learn how to play the game, or follow the rules below.

  • Grab two laundry baskets (or bins, boxes), and a ball or frisbee.
  • Place the baskets a distance apart.
  • You need a partner to play this game, but you play as a team.
  • Stand behind your basket and try to toss the ball underhand into your teammate’s basket.
  • The game is called Slam 21 because the game ends when your total equals 21.
  • Here is the scoring:
    • 1 point -the ball is deflected by your teammate and hits the edge of the basket
    • 2 points -the ball hits the edge of the basket without help from your teammate
    • 3 points – the ball is deflected into the basket by your teammate
    • 4 points -the ball goes into the basket without help from your teammate
  • The rules are the same whether you use a ball, sock ball or frisbee.
  • Variations: Make the distance between baskets farther. Toss the ball overhand. Try it from a sitting position. Allow your teammate to lift the basket to try to catch the ball.

For our youngest learners, you may want to try these games: 5 Ways to Play With a Laundry Basket