Head Shoulder Knee Cup Game

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Okay, parents, teachers, party hosts, youth leaders, listen up! If you’re looking for a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud game that kids and teens actually love (and adults secretly want to join in too), then you’ve gotta try the Head, Shoulders, Knees, Cup Game.

This game is packed with giggles, energy, and just the right amount of chaos to keep everyone engaged. I’ve played this with my own kids (and their friends), and let me tell you, things get intense in the best way. You only need a few supplies, a little space, and you’re ready to go.

What Is the Head, Shoulders, Knees, Cup Game?

In a nutshell, this game is a mix of Simon Says and Capture the Flag… but with cups and a whole lot of hand-eye coordination. Two players face off with a cup between them. A caller gives commands like “head,” “shoulders,” or “knees,” and players touch that body part, but the moment they say “cup,” both players try to grab the cup as fast as possible. First one to grab it wins that round!

It’s high energy, super silly, and perfect for parties, classrooms, camps, or family game night.

Group of kids laughing

What You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple. Here’s all you need to play:

  • Plastic Cups – 1 cup for every 2 players. (Any kind of solo-style cup works great.)
  • A Table or Floor Space – Just make sure players have space face each other.
  • Players – This can be 2 players or a big group. You can run it tournament-style if you’ve got a crowd.
  • A Caller – Someone to shout out the commands. (This can rotate if you want to give everyone a turn!)
  • Optional – A whistle or bell to make the “cup” command extra dramatic.

How to Set Up The Game

  1. Pair Up Players
    Divide your group into pairs. Each pair faces each other, with a plastic cup placed on the floor or table between them.
  2. Choose a Caller
    The caller stands where all players can hear them. Their job is to call out commands like “head,” “shoulders,” or “cup” (more on that in a second).
  3. Get Ready
    Each player puts both hands on their own knees (or flat on the floor/table if that’s easier). This is the default starting position before each round.

Basic Game Instructions

Alright, here’s where the fun begins. The game runs like this:

  1. The caller begins saying body part commands like:
    • “Head!” (Players touch their heads.)
    • “Shoulders!” (Players touch their shoulders.)
    • “Knees!” (You get the idea.)
  2. At random, the caller suddenly says “Cup!”
  3. The first player to grab the cup wins that round. You can decide how many rounds to play or do winner-advances style (more on game variations below).
  4. The loser of the round either steps out or switches with someone else (depending on how many are playing).

Note: If a player grabs the cup too early, before the caller says “cup”, they’re disqualified from that round!

Tips for the Caller

Being the caller is honestly just as fun as playing. Here’s how to keep it exciting:

  • Change the speed – Mix up how fast or slow you give commands. This keeps players on their toes!
  • Repeat body parts – Try saying “head, head, head, shoulders, head…” to throw them off.
  • Shout “cup” suddenly – Make it unpredictable. Keep the suspense high!
Little boy touching his head

Game Variations (Because Why Not Make It Even Funnier?)

Here are a few ways to spice up the classic version:

1. Tournament Style

Winners from each pair move on to the next round. Keep going until there’s a final championship round! Kids LOVE this setup, it feels like a real competition.

2. Double Cup

Put two cups between the players. The caller says “red cup” or “blue cup.” This adds a twist and keeps brains AND reflexes working!

3. With a Twist

Instead of just “head, shoulders, knees,” throw in other commands:

  • “Toes”
  • “Elbows”
  • “Chin”
  • “Nose”

You can even let kids come up with silly ones like “pinky toe” or “earlobe” if you want extra laughs.

4. Team Edition

Divide into teams. The winning player from each pair earns a point for their team. Keep a scoreboard and cheer each other on!

5. Reverse Round

Trick round! If the caller says “cup,” players shouldn’t grab it. Anyone who does gets a silly penalty like 5 jumping jacks or a chicken dance.

When and Where to Play

This game is a total winner anytime you need something fun and quick. Here are a few perfect places to play:

  • Birthday Parties – It’s fast, funny, and great for groups of kids or teens.
  • Classroom Brain Breaks – Burn off a little energy in between lessons.
  • Youth Group or Camp – This one gets loud and competitive, in a good way!
  • Family Night – Want to beat your kid at something? Here’s your shot (but warning: they’ll probably win).
Group of happy kids outdoors with their arms raised

Why Kids (and Grownups) Love It

  • It’s simple. You don’t need to explain complicated rules.
  • It’s fast-paced. Each round is quick and exciting.
  • It’s fair. Every player has a chance to win, even the quiet kids!
  • It’s hilarious. Watching people almost grab the cup early? Comedy gold.

Plus, it’s a great way to build quick reflexes, practice listening skills, and just have some good old-fashioned fun.

A Few Helpful Hints

Before you unleash the madness, here are a few quick tips:

  • Use large plastic cups – Trust me, you don’t want any injuries when they both go to grab the cup.
  • Give everyone a turn as caller – Some kids love being the one in charge.
  • Keep score (or don’t) – Totally up to you! It works as a casual just-for-fun game too.
  • Have a tiebreaker plan – For those super close rounds where you swear both kids grabbed it at the exact same time!

The Head, Shoulders, Knees, Cup game is everything a great game should be: easy to set up, totally engaging, and absolutely hilarious. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a classroom activity, or just need a quick boredom-buster, this game is a go-to favorite.

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