Traditional Kids' Party Games Dying Out as Children Brand Them 'Cringe'

Traditional Kids' Party Games Dying Out as 'Cringe'

A survey of 1,000 children aged six to 11 and their parents has found that traditional party games such as wink murder, blind man's bluff, and sleeping lions are dying out, with youngsters branding them 'cringe'. Only 16% of children have ever played wink murder, while sleeping lions and musical bumps also ranked low on the list of experienced games.

Modern Party Activities on the Rise

Instead, today's children prefer free play on bouncy castles or inflatable games (63%), entertainment by a performer (55%), or watching films (50%). Additionally, 38% have participated in video game competitions like Minecraft at parties. The research, commissioned by Capri-Sun, led to the launch of a 20-pouch party pack with 14 interactive games to help parents bring simple fun to kids' parties.

Parents' Challenges

A Capri-Sun spokesperson said: "Perhaps parents need to learn some new games as well as show their little ones what they used to play when they were young. The trick is not to overthink it – children won't remember the tiny details, only how it made them feel." The study also found that hide and seek (73%), pass the parcel (66%), and musical chairs (64%) remain the top three traditional games still popular.

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Why Kids Avoid Certain Games

Children who want to play traditional games cite reasons like friends liking them (65%), sounding funny (48%), and trying new things (47%). However, unpopular games like wink murder are avoided because they 'sound boring', 'cringe', or due to the name. The best games include prizes or rewards (47%), and only 8% said winning doesn't matter. 24% love games where everyone plays at once.

Cost and Stress of Party Planning

Seven in ten parents worry about finding enjoyable, affordable games with minimal preparation. Party preparations can take months, with 23% concerned about costs, as children's parties are more expensive than before. Yet, 44% say children enjoy contemporary games as much as traditional ones. The Capri-Sun spokesperson added: "Parents need help with party planning – keeping costs low while kids want venues with fun activities. Not knowing how to start traditional games can be stressful."