Jacky Sack | Easy Outdoor Homeschooling Activity for Bored Kids
What is Jacky Sack?
Jacky sack is a simple game using an old pillowcase, a ball or other throwable object and something to use as bases like hula hoops, spots painted on the ground or pylons. The objective of the game is to throw the ball into the sack base and have players run around to each base, skipping the one with the ball inside. Last player to make it around without being trapped in a sack base wins!
Set up the Bases
Set up 3-5 bases evenly spaced apart around the playing area. Bases should be large enough for kids to comfortably stand inside without touching each other. Hula hoops, spots of tape/paint or pylons all work great as bases. Place the pillowcase base in the center and have players gather at each base to wait for their turn.
Decide on Ball/Object
Use a large rubber playground ball, softball, bean bag, rolled up sock or ball of yarn. Anything that can be thrown easily into the sack base without hurting other players will work. Consider weights for younger kids. The ball should be light enough to throw but stay below the waist when throwing.
Take Turns Throwing
Decide on a throwing order or take turns randomly. Have one player stand by the sack base holding it open while another player throws the ball inside. All players then run to each base, skipping the one with the ball inside. Any player tagged before making it to the base out is trapped in the sack base.
Skip Bases with Care
Skip bases carefully as other players may try sneaking past on your turn. Watch out for players running behind you as you skip bases too! Once all players except one have been tagged out, the remaining player gets another turn throwing the ball into any base they choose.
Keep Games Short
For younger kids, keep games to 10-15 minutes. This will prevent frustration from not getting a turn or being trapped in the sack base for too long. Take breaks when needed and consider designating a base for “jail break” to speed up play. Most importantly, have fun with this outdoor homeschooling activity!