Native American Games

Scouts learn about the First Americans as part of building respect and understanding. One way to do this is by playing traditional games. Games show how people lived, worked, and had fun together. Many Native American games teach skill and teamwork. Some may remind Scouts of games they already know. That connection can spark interest and good discussion.

When you share these games, start with simple background information. Tell Scouts which tribe played the game. Explain where that tribe lived. Keep it short and clear. This helps Scouts see that these are real cultures with real histories. It sets a tone of respect from the beginning of the activity.

Remind Scouts that we are learning, not pretending. We are not copying clothing, dances, or ceremonies. We are playing games that were part of daily life. That difference matters. It shows respect for Native American people today. Words and actions should reflect that respect at all times.

Games also help Scouts practice character. They learn to follow rules. They learn to take turns. They learn to win and lose with good sportsmanship. These lessons fit well with the aims of Scouting. When you connect culture and character, the lesson becomes stronger.

Hubbub is a traditional Native American dice game. It is simple to learn and fun to play. Many tribes played their own versions of this game. It was often part of gatherings and community events. People of many ages could join in. The game brought groups together for friendly competition and shared time.

This game fits well into Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing. You can use it during a meeting about Native American traditions. It also works at campouts or special events. Hubbub does not require expensive supplies. That makes it easy to add to your program plan.

The equipment is simple. You need a bowl or pie dish, five dice, and about fifty small sticks. The dice can be made from wood pieces, bottle caps, or clay. Scouts decorate them with simple marks. Three dice have a star on one side. Two dice have an X on one side.

To play, the first Scout rolls all five dice into the bowl. Points are scored based on how the dice land. Some rolls earn one point. Others earn three or eight points. After scoring, the Scout takes that number of sticks from the pile. When the sticks are gone, everyone counts. The Scout with the most sticks wins.

Hubbub teaches counting and careful attention. Scouts must keep track of points and wait their turn. They practice fairness and good sportsmanship. Making the dice adds a hands on craft activity. Playing the game opens the door to talk about Native American history and living cultures today.

Learn more about Hubbub here.

Picaria is a traditional Native American board game. It is simple to learn and easy to set up. The game works well in a Scouting program. You only need a board and six small markers. It is a good choice for a gathering activity or a quiet time during a meeting or campout.

Scouts can draw the board on paper or cardboard. The board has nine points connected by lines, including diagonals. Each player uses three markers. Stones, beans, or buttons work well. Making the board and choosing pieces adds a creative step. Scouts enjoy using something they made themselves.

The game begins with an empty board. Players take turns placing one marker at a time on any open point except the center. After all six markers are placed, players begin moving them. Markers move along the lines to open points. The first player to get three in a row wins.

Picaria teaches planning and focus. Scouts must look at the whole board before moving. Quick moves can lead to mistakes. Patience helps. Players learn to watch their opponent and think ahead. These skills carry over into other parts of Scouting and daily life.

This game works for many age levels. Younger Scouts can play just the placing part, like tic tac toe. Older Scouts can play the full version with movement. You can add a timer or set up a small tournament. Keep the tone friendly and remind Scouts to take turns and play fair.

Learn more about Picaria here.

Pahsahëman is a traditional game of the Lenape people. It comes from the Northeast woodlands. The game uses open space, teamwork, and steady movement. It does not require special gear. Scouts enjoy games that let them run and work together. This activity also gives leaders a chance to share history while keeping play safe.

Long ago, families and villages gathered to play Pahsahëman. It was part of community life. Men and women sometimes followed different rules during play. This shaped how the game moved across the field. Goals were marked by posts, and the ball was made by hand. The focus was on teamwork and shared effort.

For Scouts today, use a soft football or playground ball. Mark two goals about six feet wide at each end of the field. Divide the group into two teams. Choose one clear set of rules for everyone, especially with youth. Keep contact light and do not allow pushing or tackling. Safety must stay first.

Start with all players in the center. Toss the ball up to begin. Players move the ball toward their goal by passing or kicking, based on your chosen rules. A team scores when the ball passes through the goal markers. Keep score with sticks or cones on the sideline. Play until a set number of points is reached.

Pahsahëman teaches teamwork and quick thinking. Scouts must watch the field and adjust their plan. They learn to support each other and follow clear limits. Younger Scouts can play shorter rounds on a smaller field. Older Scouts can handle longer games and switch roles. Everyone leaves tired, smiling, and proud of their effort.

Learn more about Pahsahëman here.

Many tribes played hoop and spear games. One version uses a rolling hoop. A player throws a stick or spear at the moving target. For Scouts, use a plastic hoop and a safe foam stick. Roll the hoop slowly at first. Let everyone try several times.

Another common activity is a ring and pin game. Players try to land a ring onto a peg. You can make one with string and a wooden dowel. This works well for younger Scouts. It builds hand eye coordination. It is easy to set up at a picnic table.

Hand games were also popular. One team hides a small object in their hands. The other team guesses where it is hidden. Points are scored for correct guesses. This game builds observation skills and teamwork. It requires very little equipment.

Choose games that match the age of your group. Keep rules simple. Explain clearly and check for understanding. Have all supplies ready before the meeting begins. A little preparation helps the activity run smoothly. Simple games often bring the most smiles.

Before you lead any of these games, learn about the tribe connected to them. Share a few basic facts about their location and way of life. Keep it short and clear. This shows Scouts that culture matters. It helps prevent careless comments or actions.

Explain that Native American communities are still active today. These traditions did not disappear. They are part of living cultures. Encourage Scouts to speak respectfully. If questions come up, answer honestly and simply. If you do not know an answer, say so.

Set expectations before the activity starts. Tell Scouts that we will not copy clothing or sacred customs. We are learning through play. That boundary is important. It helps everyone understand the difference between appreciation and imitation.

Games can be a strong teaching tool. They build teamwork, focus, and good sportsmanship. They also open doors to learning about history and culture. When you plan carefully and lead clearly, Scouts grow in character and understanding. That is a win for everyone.

Be Respectful of Native American Culture

What is the purpose of playing Native American games in Scouting?

The purpose is to help Scouts learn about Native American history and culture in a simple way. Games make learning active and memorable. Scouts see that people in the past enjoyed teamwork and competition just like we do today. It also supports respect for different cultures, which fits well with the values of Scouting.

Are these games still part of living cultures?

Yes. Native American tribes are living communities today. Many traditions, including games, are still remembered and practiced. When Scouts play these games, they should understand that they come from real people with ongoing traditions. Leaders should speak with respect and avoid treating the games as costumes or role play.

Do we need special equipment to play these games?

No. Most of these games use simple materials. You can use sticks, stones, paper, or a soft ball. Scouts can often make the game pieces themselves. That keeps costs low and adds a hands on activity to the meeting. Always check that materials are safe and free of sharp edges.

How can leaders make sure the games are respectful?

Leaders should learn basic facts about the tribe connected to the game. Share a short explanation before playing. Do not copy clothing, dances, or sacred practices. Make it clear that the group is learning through play, not pretending to be members of a tribe. Set expectations for respectful language and behavior.

Are these games safe for all age levels?

Most of the games can be adapted for different ages. Younger Scouts may need simpler rules and shorter rounds. Older Scouts can handle more strategy or longer play time. For active field games, keep contact light and mark clear boundaries. Leaders should always supervise and adjust rules as needed.

How do these games connect to the Scout Law?

These games support many points of the Scout Law. Scouts practice being helpful when they teach others. They show courtesy by taking turns. They are kind and fair when they handle winning and losing. They are reverent when they respect other cultures. Simple games can reinforce strong character lessons.

Native American games bring history into a Scout meeting in a simple way. Hubbub, Picaria, and Pahsahëman each teach different skills. Some build strategy and focus. Others build teamwork and steady movement. All of them connect Scouts to traditions that have been passed down for many generations. Games make learning active and memorable.

These activities do not require special gear. Scouts can make dice, draw boards, or set up goals with simple supplies. Crafting pieces adds creativity to the meeting. Playing together builds patience and fairness. Leaders can adjust rules to match the age of the group. This makes the games flexible and easy to use.

Respect is an important part of the lesson. Leaders should share basic facts about the tribe connected to each game. Scouts should understand that Native American cultures are living cultures. We learn through play, but we do not copy sacred customs or clothing. Clear guidance helps Scouts show courtesy and good character.

Native American games fit well into Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing programs. They support teamwork, planning, and sportsmanship. They also open the door to conversations about history and community life. With simple preparation, these games help Scouts grow in skill and understanding while having fun together.