Summer camp is exciting and fun. But there’s no denying kids can feel anxious and awkward. Maybe they don't have friends at camp yet or it’s the first time they've been away from their parents. 

You can ease any incoming awkwardness and make your campers feel comfortable by starting camp off with entertaining icebreaker games! Check out these five camp icebreakers and summer camp activities to make getting to know one another easier. Make sure to write a simple summer camp lesson plan so that you know how to run the activity effectively, too. Looking for more support to jumpstart your camp? Check out our ultimate guide to starting and running a kids camp.

1. Would you rather?

Looking for fun icebreakers for kids? Let them play "Would You Rather". 

In this game, each camper will be asked to choose between two different scenarios and pick the one that's most appealing. A few questions could be, would you rather:

• Dance or sing
• Be an artist or a baker
• Go bungee jumping or skydiving

This "getting to know you" game is a great addition to the children's icebreaker games at camp. It can also help find kids with their common interests.

2. Alphabet name game

The alphabet name game is a great icebreaker for kids, as well as a memory test. In this game, each camper picks an adjective that starts with the same letter as their name. For example, Sassy Suzy. Each camper will say their name then say the names of all the campers that went before them. Expect a lot of laughs in this activity!

3. Two truths and a lie

Two truths and a lie is a fun way for kids to get to know each other. For this activity, each camper will tell three statements about themselves. Two statements will be true and one will be a lie. Their fellow campers will have to decide which is the lie.

4. Pick a superhero

What kid doesn’t love superheroes? Odds are, most children have a favorite. So for this icebreaker...how about you have your campers pick their favorite superhero! If they don't have a favorite, ask them what superpower they would love to have. Take this game one step further and have them play superhero games. We promise hours of fun are guaranteed!

5. S'mores galore

What's summer camp without s'mores? When the kids arrive, have a s'more station already set up. They can gather around a campfire and roast s'mores while chatting with each other and the camp counselors. Want to jazz up the typical s'more? They can use Oreos or another cookie in place of the graham crackers. They can add strawberries to the s'more. Use Nutella or peanut butter in place of the chocolate bar.

Before the kids arrive at summer camp, be sure to know if any campers have food allergies. 

What icebreaker games will you use?

Icebreaker games are great for children to get to know each other. When they use these fun icebreakers, they're sure to create lasting friendships and memories at camp.

Are you looking for a way to better manage your summer camp? Check out our camp business tools created specifically for children's activity providers.