Opening Game

Flies Up 500

Flies Up 500 is a catching game where one leader or player throws a ball into the air and calls out a point value. Children try to catch the ball and be the first to reach 500 points.

Time8 to 15 minutes
Best ForOutdoor play or large indoor spaces
SpaceField, gym, or cultural hall with enough clearance
SuppliesSoft ball, foam ball, or playground ball

How To Run It

  1. Choose one thrower and have the rest of the children spread out in front of them.
  2. The thrower tosses or kicks a soft ball into the air and calls a point value such as 50, 100, or 200.
  3. The child who catches the ball earns those points.
  4. If the ball drops, no one gets the points for that throw.
  5. The first child to reach 500 points becomes the next thrower.
  6. Restart often so more children get turns as the thrower.

Leader Tips

  • Use a soft ball and plenty of space between players.
  • Call "no pushing" and "eyes on the ball" before each round.
  • For younger children, count any clean touch or bounce catch as points.
  • Use smaller point values if you want the game to last longer.