White Elephant Game for Ages 8-12

When having a Christmas party with kids, White Elephant is a really fun game for them to play. It can be played with as few as two people, but for bigger groups, it’s best to divide everyone into teams of six or seven. Keep reading to find out how to play the White Elephant game and some White Elephant gift ideas for kids ages 8-12 years old.

1. What is a White Elephant Game 

A white elephant game is a popular party game that is often played during the holidays. The goal of the game is to exchange unwanted gifts with others in order to end up with the best gift possible. Each player brings one wrapped gift to the party, and the gifts are placed in a central location. Players then take turns choosing a gift, unwrapping it, and showing it to the other players. If a player likes the gift, they can keep it. Otherwise, they can “steal” another player’s gift or choose a new one from the pile. The game continues until all gifts have been opened. White elephant games are usually characterized by their light-hearted nature and lack of seriousness. However, they can occasionally become competitive, especially when desirable gifts are up for grabs.

2. The Rules of the White Elephant Game 

The rules of the white elephant game can vary depending on who is playing and how many gifts are available. Generally, each player should bring one gift to the game. All gifts should be wrapped so that it’s a surprise for everyone when they open them. It’s also important for all players to agree ahead of time on what type of gifts are appropriate for the game. 

When it’s time to start, each player takes turns picking a gift from the pile and unwrapping it. If they like the gift, they can keep it; otherwise, they can either steal another player’s gift or choose a new one from the pile. Once a player has opened their third gift, they are not allowed to steal any more gifts. 

When all the gifts have been opened, the game is over and each player has the gift they ended with. Players can then choose to trade their gifts if they want or keep them as is. The goal of the game is for everyone to end up with a gift that they like and that was fun to acquire. 

3. Tips for Playing the White Elephant Game with Kids 

When playing a white elephant game with kids, it’s important to keep the rules of the game simple and easy to understand. Explain each rule in an age-appropriate way before starting the game so that everyone knows what’s expected of them. 

4. The Best Gifts for a White Elephant Party 

It’s also important to keep the game lighthearted and fun. Allow players to trade with one another after the game is over so that everyone can end up with a gift they like. Finally, choose gifts that are appropriate for all ages, such as small toys or books. This way, no one will feel excluded or left out. 

Good gifts for a white elephant party include things like books, chocolates, board games, puzzles, coffee mugs, novelty items, cards, and small trinkets. Avoid giving anything too expensive or personal; the point of the game is to have fun, not to compete. 

5. Have Fun! 

White elephant games are all about having fun, so remember to keep things light and enjoy the company of your friends and family. At the end of the day, it’s not about who got the best gift—it’s about spending time with the people you love. Good luck and have fun!