Jack Rabbit Posing Game

The Jack Rabbit Posing Game is a fun group activity that works well in all levels of Scouting. It’s easy to learn and doesn’t need any supplies. Youth stand in a circle and quickly act out silly poses together. This makes it great for meetings, campouts, or anytime you need a quick game.

This game helps Scouts build teamwork and listening skills. Since each pose needs a group of three, they have to work together. They also have to pay attention and move quickly. It keeps everyone involved and active.

Jack Rabbit Posing is a good choice for Venturers and Scouts BSA. Older youth can handle faster changes and more poses. But younger Scouts, like Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts, can enjoy it too with just a few simpler poses. You can adjust the game to fit your group.

Games like this also give youth a chance to lead. A Scout in the center gets to call out poses and guide the others. That builds confidence and leadership. It’s a great fit for a meeting opener, a break during training, or just a fun moment with your unit.

The Jack Rabbit Posing Game doesn’t have a clear origin. It’s one of those silly group games that gets passed from one Scout unit to another. Many Venturing Crews and youth groups have used it during meetings and campouts. It’s simple and doesn’t need supplies, so it’s easy to share.

There are other games like it out there. Some people call it “Three-Person Poses” or “Silly Statues.” The rules can change depending on who teaches it. But the basic idea stays the same—three people work together to act out a pose as fast as they can. If they mess it up, someone else takes over as the leader in the middle.

This game fits right in with the Scouting tradition of group challenges. It’s active, goofy, and gets everyone laughing. It encourages quick thinking and working together. That’s why so many Scout leaders use it as a team-building activity.

The animal-themed poses, like Jack Rabbit or Elephant, may remind some people of campfire skits or Cub Scout action songs. These types of movements help break the ice and get people comfortable with each other. Scouts learn that it’s OK to be a little silly with friends.

There’s no one right way to do this game. Each unit can add their own twist. Some groups make up new poses based on local animals, camp traditions, or inside jokes. This makes the game even more fun and keeps it fresh each time.

The Jack Rabbit Posing Game helps Scouts work together. Each pose needs three people, so they have to watch each other and act as a team. If one person doesn’t do their part, the whole pose falls apart. This teaches teamwork and focus in a fun way.

It also builds quick thinking. Scouts only have a few seconds to hear the command and strike the pose. That means they have to stay alert. They learn to listen carefully and react fast. This keeps them engaged and thinking on their feet.

This game connects well to parts of the Scout Law. A Scout is helpful and kind. When Scouts encourage each other and try again after a missed pose, they show kindness. A Scout is also cheerful. This game brings lots of laughs, and laughter helps the group bond.

The game works best for ages 10 and up. Scouts BSA and Venturers really enjoy it. Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts can also play, but they may need simpler poses. For younger groups, stick with just three or four basic poses until they get the hang of it.

You can make it harder for older Scouts. Add more poses, speed up the game, or throw in surprise commands. This keeps the game fresh and challenging for teens. Leaders can also step back and let the youth run it, which helps build leadership.

Equipment / Materials Needed

• None

Setup Instructions

1. Choose an open space where everyone can stand in a circle.
2. Make sure there is enough room for people to move safely.
3. Have all players form a circle.
4. Pick one person to start in the middle. This person is the leader.
5. Review the poses with the group before starting the game.

Game Play Instructions

1. The leader points to someone in the circle.
2. That person, plus the one on their left and the one on their right, must do the pose the leader calls out.
3. They have three seconds to strike the correct pose.
4. If they do it correctly, the leader stays in the middle and picks again.
5. If they are too slow or do it wrong, the person who was pointed to becomes the new leader.
6. Continue playing until everyone has had a turn or the group is ready to stop.

Pose List and Directions

• Jack Rabbit: Middle person makes bunny ears with hands. Side people thump their outside feet like rabbits.
• Washing Machine: Side people use their arms to form a circle around the middle person. Middle person spins in place.
• Palm Tree: Middle person raises arms like a tree. Side people crouch to be coconuts.
• Charlie’s Angels: All three strike the Charlie’s Angels pose (finger guns and dramatic stance).
• Chicken in a Hut: Middle person squats. Side people form a roof with straight arms over the middle person.
• Car Wash: Middle person puts arms out like a car roof. Side people spin under the arms like rollers.
• Toaster: Side people stand still with arms at their sides. Middle person jumps up like toast popping.
• Eagle: Middle person makes a beak with hands. Side people flap one arm like a wing.
• Elephant: Middle person uses arm as a trunk. Side people each use one arm as an ear.
• Airplane: Middle person holds arms forward like controls. Side people stretch arms out like wings.

Game Variations and Safety Tips

• Start with a few poses. Add more as Scouts get comfortable.
• For older Scouts, add speed or surprise poses.
• For younger Scouts, allow a little more time to respond.
• Make sure the space is free from tripping hazards.
• Remind Scouts to be careful when spinning, jumping, or crouching.
• Keep it positive. Support each other and have fun.

Printable instructions for How to Run the Jack Rabbit Posing Game

More Games

If your Scouts liked the Jack Rabbit Posing Game, try some of the other group games I’ve shared. These types of activities work well at meetings, campouts, and during downtime. They help youth build teamwork, have fun, and stay active.

You can find more ideas on the Games for Scouts page right here on my site: Games for Scouts. I’ve listed a variety of games that work for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturers. There are indoor games, outdoor games, and quick filler games. Pick a few and try them out with your unit.

The Importance of Games in Scouting

What age group is this game for?

This game works best for Scouts ages 10 and up. It’s great for Scouts BSA and Venturers. Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts can also enjoy it with simple poses.

Do I need any supplies to run the game?

No supplies are needed. Just a safe space where everyone can stand in a circle and move around.

How long does the game take?

It depends on your group. You can play for 10 minutes or longer. Stop when the Scouts lose interest or everyone has had a turn.

Can we make up our own poses?

Yes. Many groups add their own fun poses. Just be sure everyone understands what each pose looks like before starting.

What if someone is shy or doesn’t want to join?

Let them watch first. They may join in once they see how it works. Don’t force anyone to take part.

Is this game safe?

Yes, if you remind Scouts to be careful. Make sure the area is clear and everyone watches their movements. No rough play.

The Jack Rabbit Posing Game is a fast-paced circle game that keeps Scouts laughing and moving. One person stands in the middle and calls out a pose. Three players work together to strike the correct pose in just a few seconds. If they mess up or take too long, the person in the center changes.

This game works well for Scouts BSA, Venturers, and older Cub Scouts. Younger Scouts may need simpler poses and more time. It teaches quick thinking, teamwork, and paying attention. It’s also a great way to let youth lead the activity.

There are no supplies needed. Just some open space and a group of Scouts ready to try something new. The poses are fun and silly, like Jack Rabbit, Washing Machine, or Airplane. You can even create your own.

The game is easy to learn and easy to change based on your group. It’s perfect for meetings, campouts, or anytime your Scouts need a break or some energy.