Sponge Relay

Supplies

• 2–4 large sponges (one per team)

• 2 buckets per team:

  • Start bucket: filled with water

  • End bucket: empty

• Cones or chalk to mark start and finish lines

• Optional: measuring jug to compare final water levels

Setup

1. Split kids into teams of 4–8 players.

2. Place a bucket of water at the start line for each team.

3. Place an empty bucket at the finish line (5–10 metres away).

4. Give each team one sponge.

How to Play

1. First Player Starts

• The first player dunks the sponge into the water bucket until it’s fully soaked.

• They then run (or fast-walk) to the end bucket.

2. Squeeze the Sponge

• The player squeezes as much water as possible into the end bucket.

3. Return & Pass the Sponge

• The player runs back and hands the sponge to the next teammate.

• That player soaks the sponge and repeats the process.

4. Continue Until Everyone Has a Turn

• The relay continues until all players have gone at least once.

• For longer games, have each team complete 2–3 rounds.

Winning the Game

At the end:

• Staff check which team has the most water in their end bucket.

• That team wins the Sponge Relay!

For a dramatic finish, you can use a measuring jug to compare the levels.

Variations

🏃‍♂️ Running Style Challenge

Change how kids move:

• Crab walk

• Hop like a frog

• Walk backwards

• Side shuffle

🎯 Target Squeeze

Instead of a bucket, kids squeeze water into:

• A funnel

• A cup

• A narrow containerHarder but fun!

🌧 Mega Sponge

Use giant cleaning sponges for bigger teams.