Pass the Parcel

Materials

• 1 small, soft object, such as a cuddly toy
• Paper for about one wrapping layer per person
• A little tape
• Music that can be paused

How to play

1. The facilitator wraps the object in several paper layers. Use different colours and only a little tape so each layer opens easily. Sit in a circle within comfortable passing reach.
2. Pass the parcel to your neighbour while music plays. Do not throw it. Let go only once the receiver holds it with both hands. The facilitator pauses music at irregular intervals.
3. The player holding it when the music stops opens only one outer layer. Agree beforehand that a parcel between two people goes to the receiver before opening.
4. Place removed paper outside the circle. Resume passing when the music starts. Players who have opened a layer remain involved; nobody is eliminated.
5. When the object appears, the final un-wrapper shows it to everyone and the game ends. In this version, everyone uses it in the next activity. Change facilitator and starting player next time.

Ways to adapt

Preschool: pass with a caregiver, beside them or on their lap. Younger primary: make layers distinct. Older primary: facilitate or plan how everyone will use the object.

Sources and references

• City of Boston・Boston Public Schools：International Day of Play Game Booklet 2026（PDF p.20） ↗