Traditional Finnish Games Kids Will Love

Games are a big part of growing up in Finland. Just like in many countries, Finnish kids love to run, play, and laugh—especially when they’re outside with friends. What makes Finnish games special is that they are often simple, creative, and full of teamwork. These traditional games don’t need many tools or toys. All you need is a bit of space and a group of eager players!

Ketju (The Chain)

Ketju, or “The Chain,” is a fun and twisty game of teamwork and thinking. One child leaves the room while the others hold hands and twist themselves into a tangled knot. The goal is to make the chain as tricky as possible without letting go. Then, the child returns and tries to untangle the group—without breaking the chain! It’s like solving a human puzzle and is a great game for family gatherings or classroom fun.

Crab Ball Tag

This energetic game is perfect for kids who love movement and a little bit of silliness. Everyone, except for one child, gets into a “crab” position—walking with their hands and feet, with stomachs facing up. Players try to kick or head a ball toward the standing player. That person then picks up the ball and tries to tag one of the crabs. Whoever gets tagged becomes the new “it.” It’s a fast-paced game that keeps everyone on the move and giggling.

12 Sticks on a Board

This Finnish game mixes strategy, memory, and a bit of luck. You’ll need 12 small sticks and a flat board. One child becomes the seeker while the others hide. Before seeking, the seeker flips the sticks into the air and places them back on the board. If a hidden player tries to sneak back and knocks over the sticks before being found, they are safe! But if the seeker finds someone and gets back to the board first, calling out their name, that player is caught. It’s like hide and seek with a fun Finnish twist.

Playing and Learning the Finnish Way

Games like these teach children more than just how to win—they learn how to work together, stay active, and think on their feet. Many of these traditional games are still played at schools, summer camps, and family picnics in Finland. They don’t require phones, screens, or even complicated equipment, which makes them timeless and easy to enjoy anywhere.

If your child is learning Finnish or wants to explore more about Finnish culture, Dinolingo is a great place to start. Dinolingo offers interactive lessons, songs, games, and cultural activities in Finnish for children aged 2–14. With just one subscription, families can access lessons on the web, iOS, or Android, and even download material for offline play. Learning a language becomes so much more fun when kids can also learn the games, traditions, and values of that culture!