How to Play Four Square: A Kid-Friendly Guide
Turn a simple flat surface into your very own Four Square court with these easy instructions. Whether you’re playing on a driveway, playground, or gym floor, here’s everything you need to know to get started.
What You’ll Need
A Playground Ball: Any standard ball will do.
A Hard, Flat Surface: Look for a smooth area like a driveway, playground, or gym floor.
Four Equal Squares: Divide the area into four identical squares. If natural markings aren’t available, use chalk or tape to create clear boundaries.
Setting Up the Game
Assign the Squares:
Have four players each take a square. Label the squares in a clockwise order with these titles: King, Queen, Knight, and Pawn. The “King” square is the most desirable position, so everyone will be eager to work their way up there.Starting the Game:
The player in the King square begins by serving the ball into play.
How to Play
Hitting the Ball:
When the ball bounces into your square, you must hit it to one of the other squares. Make sure the ball doesn’t bounce a second time in your square or go out-of-bounds.Getting Out:
If the ball bounces twice in your square, goes out-of-bounds, or if you commit a foul (see “Extra Rules” below), you’re considered “out” for that round. When you’re out, you drop down to the Pawn square, and everyone else shifts up one rank.Continuing Play:
The game proceeds as players try to keep the ball in play while moving up to the coveted King square. The goal is to avoid mistakes and work your way from Pawn all the way to King.
Extra Rules and Common Variations
Groups often add extra rules to make the game more challenging. Here are a few popular ones:
No “Typewriters”:
You aren’t allowed to lean over your square and dribble the ball into another player’s square. Each player must hit the ball from within their own square.No “Skyscrapers”:
Avoid hitting the ball so hard or at such an angle that it bounces off the ground and soars high into the air. While competitive shots are encouraged, they should remain within reach for the other players.No “Rollie Pollies”:
The ball must bounce; it shouldn’t be hit so that it rolls along the ground. In many cases, if the ball rolls instead of bouncing, the play is redone or the offending player may be penalized.Additional Guidelines:
Typically, players are not allowed to carry, catch, or volley the ball. Some groups allow up to two “air volleys” before the ball must touch the ground, while others insist that the ball must bounce once before being hit. Decide on these details with your group before you start playing.
Enjoy the game, and remember—the rules can be adapted as you see fit. Four Square is all about having fun, challenging each other, and climbing your way to the King square. Happy playing!