Caterpillar Race Game

The Caterpillar Race is a good game for Cub Scouts. It helps Scouts learn to work together. They must move in a line, holding each other’s ankles. This takes balance, teamwork, and focus.

This game fits well with the values of Scouting. It teaches cooperation and communication. Scouts have to talk and move as a group. Everyone needs to help each other succeed.

Caterpillar Race is simple and does not need special equipment. You can use it anytime to keep Scouts active. It is good for den meetings, pack meetings, or campouts.

Games like this help Scouts build skills while having fun. They stay active and learn how to support their team. It also helps them build friendships with other Scouts.

Scouts learn a lot from the Caterpillar Race. The main lesson is teamwork. Everyone in the line has to move together or they fall apart. Scouts must listen to each other and stay focused. This helps them understand how working together makes the group stronger.

This game also builds trust. Each Scout depends on the person in front of them to move carefully. If one person moves too fast or too slow, the whole team struggles. It teaches patience and looking out for others. This connects to the Scout Law. A Scout is loyal. A Scout is helpful.

The race also helps build physical skills. Scouts use their muscles and improve balance. It is a good way to burn off energy and stay active. At the same time, it helps with coordination. Moving in a group like this takes practice and control.

This game is best for ages 6 to 10. It works well for Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Bears. Webelos and older Scouts might find it too easy, but they can help lead or time the races. For older Scouts who want to try, add obstacles or make it a relay.

Scouts also learn to laugh and support each other. They might fall or get tangled, but that’s part of the fun. They cheer each other on and try again. This shows how a Scout is cheerful and kind, even when things don’t go right the first time.

The Caterpillar Race is a simple game, but it builds many skills. It helps Scouts work as a team, build confidence, and have fun together. It’s a good way to teach values from the Scout Law in a hands-on way.

Equipment / Materials Needed:

• None (just space to move safely)

Setup Instructions:

1. Find a flat, open space where Scouts can move safely.
2. Mark a starting line and a finish line using cones, tape, or natural markers.
3. Divide Scouts into two or more teams with equal numbers.
4. Have each team line up behind the starting line.

Game Play Instructions:

1. The first Scout on each team gets down on hands and feet (like a bear crawl).
2. Each Scout behind grabs the ankles of the Scout in front of them.
3. Make sure each team forms a line, like a caterpillar.
4. When the leader says “Go!”, the teams start moving toward the finish line.
5. The first team to cross the finish line while staying connected wins.
6. If a team breaks apart, they must stop and reconnect before moving again.

Notes and Variations:

• For younger Scouts, keep the race distance short.
• For older Scouts, add turns or small obstacles.
• To make it harder, have them carry a light object as a team.
• Always check the space for safety hazards before starting.
• Make sure Scouts move slowly and carefully to avoid falls.
• Remind Scouts to be gentle and to help each other if someone slips.

Printable copy of the Caterpillar Race Game Directions

More Games

If your Scouts liked the Caterpillar Race, there are many more games to try. You can find more fun group activities on the Scouter Mom games page. These games work well at meetings, campouts, or just when you need to keep Scouts active and busy. They are simple and use things you already have or need no equipment at all.

I’ve collected a wide variety of games for different age levels and group sizes. Some are fast and silly like the Caterpillar Race. Others focus more on strategy or teamwork. Check out the full list here: Games for Scouts. These ideas will help you plan fun meetings and teach skills at the same time.

The Importance of Games in Scouting

What age group is this game best for?

This game works best for Cub Scouts, ages 6 to 10. Older Scouts might enjoy helping lead or timing the race.

Do I need any equipment to play?

No equipment is needed. Just a safe, open space to move around.

How many Scouts can be on each team?

Teams can have 4 to 6 Scouts. Try to keep the teams the same size to make it fair.

What if a team falls apart during the race?

If a team breaks apart, they must stop and reconnect before moving forward.

Is the game safe?

Yes, if Scouts move slowly and the area is clear of hazards. Remind them to be careful and help each other.

Can I make the game harder for older Scouts?

Yes. You can add turns, obstacles, or have them carry a small object as a team.

The Caterpillar Race is a fun group game that helps Scouts learn teamwork, balance, and coordination. Scouts form a line by grabbing the ankles of the person in front of them. Then they race to the finish line while staying connected. If they break apart, they have to stop and fix their line before moving again.

This game is great for younger Scouts, especially Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Bears. It does not need any equipment, so it’s easy to set up. All you need is an open space and a group of Scouts ready to move and laugh.

The game also teaches important parts of the Scout Law. Scouts must be loyal, helpful, cheerful, and kind. They support each other and work together to finish the race. It’s a good way to build group spirit and burn off energy.

You can change the game for older Scouts by adding challenges. Try using obstacles or making it a relay. Let older Scouts lead or time the race. However you set it up, the Caterpillar Race is a fun and active way to teach cooperation.