1 Decide who is "it": this person will be the one who chases the others. Don't worry - many of the players will get a turn at being "it".
2 Choose the boundaries for the game. This will ensure that the game doesn't extend into unwanted areas. If a player crosses the boundaries, he or she is automatically "it"
3 Provide a head start for running. Players should be given a 5-10 second head start to run. The "it" person should count to that number, then start chasing the others. Naturally, every other player's objective is to not get tagged.
4 Tag another player. The "it" player must aim to touch another player. Once the "it" player succeeds in doing this, the player who has been tagged is now "it".
5 Continue with the new "it" player trying to tag someone new to be "it".
6 Stop the game whenever wanted. The person who is "it" when the game stops loses. There is no set rule on when to end but it is a good idea to set a time limit before players become exhausted or disinterested in continuing the game. The younger the players, the shorter the game of tag should be.
Tips
* Once you get used to it, you may like to try playing different kinds of tag; for example, "freeze tag", "TV tag" etc.
* It works best if you play with 4-6 players, although larger groups can be fun too. If you play with a large group, it is both fairer and more fun for the players being chased to choose two or even three people who are "it".
* In some places this game is known as "chasey" or "cat and mouse".
* A fun way to make the game kinder on young children who don't like to lose is to let the "loser" choose dessert or what game will be played next. That way, he or she won't feel so bad about being the last one left as "it".
Warnings
* Be careful not to trip over or bump into others while playing.
* Stay in a safe area.
* Watch out for dogs trying to join in a game of tag; if they get too excited they might trip over the players or nip at them.
* Don't play in a rocky area.