How to Play the Left, Right Game with a Halloween Twist: The Perfect Party Game for Kids
If you’re looking to keep kids entertained at a Halloween party, the Left, Right Game is a fantastic choice! Known for its simplicity and adaptability, this game is easy to set up and can be given a spooky Halloween theme that delights children ages 5 to 12. As always this age range is just a guide – there will be many kids younger or older who will still love this game too!
What is the Left and Right Game?
It’s really just pass the parcel but with direction instructions from a spooky story and is a super easy Halloween party game for kids. In the Left, Right Game, players sit in a circle and pass an item—a small prize or treat—following the directions in a Halloween-themed story. Each time the story mentions “left” or “right,” players pass the item in that direction until they hear it change again until the story ends. The child holding the item at the end wins a prize! This game works well for both large gatherings like class parties and smaller groups.
Download a free Halloween Left Right Game at the end of this post
Setting the Halloween Scene: Props and Story Ideas
1. Pass a Halloween-Themed Item
Choose a spooky object like a small stuffed pumpkin, a plush ghost, or a Halloween toy. You could also add mystery by using a wrapped treat bag as the prize.
2. Create or Find a Spooky Story
The story is the heart of this game. Have a go at writing your own or find a short, Halloween-themed tale online. Check out our FREE downloadable ‘Haunted Mansion’ story below. It’s available in two fun designs to match in with your Halloween vibe!
Prizes: Fun and Fairness
Inclusive Prizes for Everyone: Prepare small bags of candy or Halloween trinkets for each child. Give the main prize to the child holding the item at the end, but hand out treats to all.
Competitive Prizes for Extra Fun: For a more competitive version, reward a larger prize—like a Halloween toy or bigger candy bag—to the winner. Kids not holding the prize at the end can try again in the next round, keeping excitement high.
Why the Left, Right Game is Perfect for Halloween Parties
Engages Kids: Children stay focused on the story, eagerly waiting to hear “left” or “right” so they can pass the item.
Teaches Listening and Directions: The game is great for practicing listening skills and understanding left and right, especially helpful for younger children.
Requires Low Prep and is Adaptable: With just a story and simple props, this game is easy to set up and can be played almost anywhere.
Tips for Playing the Game Smoothly (and Keeping Order!)
Hosting the Left, Right Game with a big group of kids can be fun, but to keep things organized and maintain excitement without chaos, here are some extra tips:
1. Keep the Story Short and Engaging
Attention Span Friendly: Stick to a 2–3 minute story with lots of “left” and “right” cues to keep things moving and hold the attention of younger kids. If the story drags, kids may lose focus, making it harder to keep order.
Pause for Emphasis: As you read, give a quick pause before each “left” or “right” to build anticipation and ensure all kids are ready to pass. This rhythm helps reduce confusion about the direction and keeps everyone in sync.
2. Set Clear Rules for Passing and Winning
Practice a Trial Round: Do a quick, no-prize trial round so kids can practice passing the item in the correct direction. This helps them understand the flow, which can prevent confusion during the main rounds.
Explain the Prize Structure: Before starting, let the kids know that only the child holding the item at the end wins the main prize but that everyone will have a chance to win. This can reduce disappointment and prevent complaints during the game.
Establish Passing Boundaries: Remind kids to pass the item gently without tossing it, to keep the game safe and fair for everyone.
3. Focus on Fun Over Winning
Inclusive Small Prizes: For a large group, have small treats or Halloween trinkets ready to hand out to everyone at the end of each round. This keeps kids engaged without focusing solely on winning, and it helps avoid disagreements.
Encourage Friendly Play: Let kids know that the game is meant for fun and teamwork, not competition. Mentioning that there are multiple rounds can also prevent kids from feeling left out or upset if they don’t win the first time.
4. Use Visual and Auditory Cues
Clear Cues for Left and Right: Since kids may get mixed up, consider adding visual signs with arrows or hand signals to indicate which way to pass. This way, kids who aren’t fully listening can still follow along without disrupting the game.
Reinforce with Repetition: If you sense kids are losing focus, a quick, cheerful reminder like “Ready, left!” or “And to the right!” can help everyone get back on track without disrupting the flow.
By keeping the story short, establishing clear rules, and focusing on a fun, inclusive environment, you’ll ensure the Left, Right Game stays organized and enjoyable for everyone at the party. With these steps in place, kids will stay engaged, and you’ll minimize disagreements in the group.
If you’re looking for a way to add a little extra fun to your Halloween festivities this year, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Do you have any Halloween games or traditions that your family loves? Let me know in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for new ideas!
Click here (pumpkin/ghost) and here (spider) to access a jpeg version of these Free printable games.
Alternatively use the button below for a pdf of both designs – Happy Halloween!
Louise x
