Now that our family has an amazing, awesome backyard, I thought I should make our game of the month an amazing, awesome backyard game. We have been playing Boochie almost every day since we bought it.
It has three spectacular characteristics.
- Every time you play, the game changes.
- It requires everyone to move their whole body.
- It gets the whole family laughing.
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The name "Boochie" may put you in mind of bocce, a traditional lawn game played in those lovely Mediterranean countries. However, Boochie is much, much easier for kids of all ages to play. Lest I give you the impression that the two games are similar, the only characteristic that they have in common is that players toss ball-type objects across an expanse of grass. Boochie is much more giggle-inducing.
How to Play Boochie:
Boochie: A Whole New Ball Game by Gamewright is an outdoor action game. It consists of hoops, balls, and wristbands in 4 different colors, and the 12-sided "Boochie" ball.
After the initial toss of the Boochie ball, players take turns tossing their ball and ring according to the instructions on their wristbands. As each player acquires points, he turns the dial on his wristband, which spells out a new challenge. Challenges include instructions such as, "keep one elbow on the ground," "bounce the ball off a body part," or "throw with your eyes closed." The Boochie ball gives additional conditions which help players earn bonus points. The first player to reach the target score wins.
Tips for playing Boochie:
- Although the game relies on points, we modified the game so it was less competitive. Because you throw the Boochie ball for each subsequent round, we decided that we would play, not to a target score, but until we reached the end of the lawn. Instead we relied on points solely as a means to advance our wristbands, not as a method of scoring our achievements.
- Because the top score is 11, the game is over quickly so there is no time to get bored. In addition, turns are short so little ones don't have to do much waiting.
- Each of the Boochie wristbands has a different set of challenges. All you have to do to make sure the next game is totally different is choose a different color!
- I've no doubt that kids as young as three can play. They will need help scoring and you will want to ensure that they don't feel unskilled next to older siblings, but it can be a great family game.
- I don't usually comment on the packaging of games, but I LOVE that it comes in a clear bag that we can hang it up by the back door!
Why you should play Boochie:
- It is NOT boring!
- It will make everyone laugh!
- You will get exercise!
- You will get everyone outdoors!
- The challenges add in a great way for kids to work on coordination, balance and agility!
- It will make you want to say everything with an exclamation point!
More games you will enjoy:
- 10 outdoor family games
- Bocce
- 10 ways to play tag
- Ticket to Ride
- Family games that improve executive functioning
pragmaticmom says
Sounds fun ... like a more physical version of Twister! My kids have been playing badminton in the backyard. I am the worst at it which makes them all laugh!