No matter how much time you allow children at a playground, it is never enough. Playgrounds set off small energy explosions in kids, sending them catapulting through equipment, jumping on and off swings, and moving in and out of games, negotiating it all like cab drivers in rush hour. Quick, seize-the-moment games, whether they're centuries old or invented in an afternoon, always have been the mainstay of playground activities--and knowing a great game is important social currency among kids.

The games here can be quickly explained and easily adapted to the skills, attention spans, ages and numbers of players on hand--the more kids, the merrier. Aside from a ball or two and a Frisbee disc, there are no props to slow things down. The playground is no place to stand around.

Spud
There are several versions of this time-honored recess game. Here's our favorite.

Dog Chases Its Tail
This game mimics the silliness and futility of a dog chasing its tail.

Two Truths And One Lie
Test your lie-detecting abilities with this challenge.

Frisbee Golf
Snag a hole in one with a frisbee on the playground.

The Fugitives
Add a twist of mystery and excitement to a classic game of red light, green light.

See No Evil
Monkey around in this game that emphasizes teamwork.

Steal the Bacon
Steal the bacon and bring it home in this traditional playground game.

No Way Out
Catch all the fun in this fast-moving, thrill-filled game of chase.

Barbara Rowley is a regular contributor to FAMILYFUN