Overview

Duck, Duck, Goose is a classic children’s game that involves players sitting in a circle while one player, who is “it,” walks around the circle tapping others on the head and saying “Duck” until they choose someone to be the “Goose.” The “Goose” and the player who is “it” then race around the circle in opposite directions, with the last one back to the starting spot becoming “it” for the next round. This game can be played with one or multiple players being “it” for added variation.

Objective

The objective of Duck, Duck, Goose is to successfully tag and race around the circle to avoid becoming “it” for the next round.

Players

• Number of Players: 7 to unlimited
• Minimum Age: 8 years old

Game Duration

• Setup Time: 5 minutes
• Game Time: 15-30 minutes

Required Items

• An open area large enough to form a circle
• Cones or markers (optional, to mark the circle)
• Stopwatch or timer (optional, to limit rounds)

Setup

1. Select a Playing Area: Choose a safe, open area where players can sit and run comfortably.
2. Form a Circle: Have all players sit in a circle on the ground, facing inward.
3. Choose the First “It”: Select one player to start as “it.”

Rules

1. Starting the Game:
   • The player who is “it” walks around the outside of the circle, gently tapping each seated player on the head and saying “Duck.”
   • At any point, the player who is “it” can tap a player and say “Goose” instead.
2. The Chase:
   • When “Goose” is called, the tapped player stands up and chases the player who is “it” around the circle in the same direction.
   • The player who is “it” must run around the circle and attempt to sit in the “Goose’s” spot.
3. Becoming “It”:
   • If the “it” player reaches the spot first and sits down, the “Goose” becomes the new “it.”
   • If the “Goose” tags the “it” player before they sit down, the “it” player remains “it” for the next round.
4. Multiple “It” Variation:
   • For added fun, have multiple players be “it” at the same time.
   • Each “it” player can choose a “Goose,” leading to multiple chases happening simultaneously.

How to Play

1. Start the Round: The “it” player begins walking around the circle, tapping players on the head and saying “Duck.”
2. Call “Goose”: When the “it” player taps someone and says “Goose,” the chase begins.
3. Run the Circle: Both the “it” player and the “Goose” run in opposite directions around the circle, racing to the open spot.
4. Determine the New “It”: The last one to reach the open spot becomes “it” for the next round.
5. Repeat: Continue the game with the new “it” player starting the next round.

Tips and Strategies

• Strategic Tapping: “It” players should choose their “Goose” wisely, considering who might be slower or less prepared.
• Quick Reactions: Players should be ready to jump up and run the moment they hear “Goose.”
• Fair Play: Ensure that all players get a chance to be “it” and participate in the chase.

Safety Precautions

• Ensure the playing area is free of obstacles and hazards.
• Encourage players to run safely and avoid pushing or tripping.
• Supervise younger players to ensure fair play and prevent accidents.

Enjoy the excitement and fun of Duck, Duck, Goose and get ready for some lively chases!