Poison (game) facts for kids

Poison is a super fun traditional children's game. It's a bit like a game of tag, but with a twist! This game has been enjoyed for a long time. It was even described in a book called Games for the Playground... by Jessie H. Bancroft way back in 1909.

How to Play Poison: The Classic Version

Setting Up the Game

To start, you need to draw a small circle on the ground. This circle is the "poison" area. It should be small enough that everyone can stand around it without touching it.

All the players then form a big ring around this "poison" circle. Make sure everyone holds hands tightly!

Playing the Game

The main goal is to make other players step into the "poison" circle. You can do this by gently pushing or pulling your friends. Remember, everyone is still holding hands!

If someone accidentally touches the "poison" circle, everyone shouts "Poisoned!" That player is now "poisoned" and must run away.

Finding Safety

Once someone is "poisoned," they try to tag other players. But there's a safe zone! To be safe, you need to find a piece of dead wood on the ground and step on it.

When you are safe on the wood, you can shout, "I am standing on the wood! You can't get me!" This means the "poisoned" players cannot tag you.

The Chase and Game End

Part of the fun is running from one safe spot to another. If a "poisoned" player tags you while you are not on a piece of wood, then you become "poisoned" too! You then join the other "poisoned" players and try to tag others.

The game keeps going until most of the players have become "poisoned." It's a great way to get some exercise and have a laugh with friends!

A Simpler Version of Poison

There's also an easier way to play "Poison." This version is sometimes played by groups like the Scouts.

In this simpler game, if you touch the "poison" circle, you are out of the game. Players keep getting out until only two players are left. The last two players remaining are the winners!