No matter where you’re headed, you’ll almost inevitably spend long stretches on buses, trains, or planes. Keeping your child entertained and happy during these dull hours is a real challenge for any parent. Today, I’ll share some simple mini games perfect for playing with your child during the trip—games that help both parents and kids enjoy the journey smoothly.
Game 1: What Can You See Out the Window?
Among the layers of green leaves on the roadside trees, you might spot hidden bird nests. Play a game with your child to find as many nests as possible. Count them together, and whoever spots 10 first wins. The loser has to sing a song. You can let your child win once, or pretend not to know the lyrics if you lose and ask your child to teach you.
You can also count other things outside the window, such as houses, chimneys, or certain types of cars.
Game 2: Finger Game – Open the Gate
Press the palms of both hands together, then slowly separate your fingers one by one, starting with the thumbs, until all five pairs of fingers are spread apart.
Have your child mimic you while saying: “Open the big gate, can it open?” (thumbs apart) “Open the second gate, can it open?” (index fingers apart) “Open the third gate, can it open?” (middle fingers apart) “Open the fourth gate, can it open?” (ring fingers apart) “Open the fifth gate, it’s open!” (little fingers apart, hands fully spread)
Game 3: Finger Game – Finger Brothers
This game feels like tickling and usually has kids laughing uncontrollably.
One finger taps, taps, taps (extend one finger to tap your child)
Two fingers knock, knock (extend two fingers to gently tap your child)
Three fingers pinch, pinch, pinch (extend three fingers to lightly pinch your child)
Four fingers scratch, scratch, scratch (extend four fingers to gently scratch your child)
Five fingers clap, clap, clap (clap both hands together)
Five brothers climb up the mountain (move your fingers up your child’s arm or leg)
Roll down, roll down (gently scratch down your child’s arm or leg)
Game 4: Finger Game – Little People Walking
Point your index and middle fingers downward and alternate them moving forward, like a little person walking. You can walk them on your own legs or on your child’s legs, arms, or body...
You can also let your child set up “obstacles” with their little fingers, and you can either step over them or pretend to trip...
Older kids can create their own little people with their fingers. Two little people can walk together, chase each other… or you can even make up a story...
Game 5: Count the Fingers
Hide different fingers behind your back and have your child guess which ones you’re showing. Then reveal your hand and see if they guessed right. Or ask them to guess how many fingers you’re holding up, then show them and let them count to check.
If your child knows how to play, let them hide their fingers and you guess.
Game 6: Where Is It Hidden?
Hold a small item (like a candy) in one hand, switch it behind your back a few times, then show your hands to your child and let them guess which hand it’s in. Open the hand they point to until they find it.
You can also let your child hide the item and you guess. For younger kids, you can switch the item right in front of them before they guess.
Game 7: Rock, Paper, Scissors
This classic game needs no explanation—kids as young as four or five can learn to play. They might take a bit longer to decide, so go easy on them. You can even offer small rewards for playing.
Game 8: Paper Folding
This is a traditional and fun mini game. All you need is a pack of origami paper, plus a bit of imagination, patience, and skill to create all kinds of cute and varied cartoon characters.
Parents can play along with their kids or teach them how to fold. It’s something you can do anytime, anywhere, making it perfect for passing time on long trips.
Game 9: Little Artist
This game is perfect for little artist-type kids who love to scribble and draw.
It’s not always convenient to bring lots of paper and pens when traveling—they can get lost or make a mess. That’s why a magnetic drawing board is ideal for your child. They can draw things they see during the trip, illustrate stories you tell, or simply let their creativity flow.
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There are actually so many mini games you can play during a trip. Just the finger games suitable for toddlers are countless. For older kids, you can also bring along games like checkers or cat’s cradle. It all depends on whether parents put in the effort to prepare ahead of time—better to have too many options than run out when you need them most.
For children, the most fun way to pass the time is definitely through enjoyable games. They’re relaxing and can turn a dull journey into a joyful family bonding experience.
Of course, besides stocking up on mini games, parents shouldn’t forget to pack some small toys and snacks for their kids—sometimes, with a little creativity, these can also double as game props. Get ready, head toward the horizon, and let the happy journey begin.
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