How to Play Mother May I
Here’s a classic rainy-day game that leaves us hoping our kids will adopt the phrase at the very least. Mother, may I? It might just stick!
Parents on the hunt for fresh ways to keep their kids entertained are turning to fun, creative games that spark imagination and burn off energy—without relying on screens. From backyard scavenger hunts and DIY obstacle courses to card games with silly twists and storytelling challenges that get everyone giggling, today’s options are all about mixing fun with just a hint of learning. These games not only keep little ones engaged but also encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon indoors or a sunny weekend outside, there’s a new game out there to keep boredom at bay—and maybe even bring the whole family a little closer.
Looking for a classic childhood game that is easy to understand and fun to play?
One of our favourites is Mother may I? The popular children’s game (also known as “Captain may I?” and “Father may I?”) is a simple childhood game that has kids taking turns, asking for permission to move forward to the other side of the room, lawn or field, using the phrase “Mother, May I?”. As Mother (or Father or Captain) you get to decide the step types, and number of steps that a child must take. Spoiler: The first player to reach the “Mother” wins the round and becomes and becomes the new “Mother”!
Ready to teach them how to play? Here are the simple to learn rules for Mother may I. Have fun!
How to Play “Mother May I?”
– Play this game with at least three players and choose a leader to be the ‘mother.’
– Line players up facing the ‘mother’ at least 10 feet away—further works well and makes the game last longer.
– Give commands to the players one at a time. Say, for example, “Anna, you may take one step forward.”
– Wait for the player to respond. If she says, “Mother, may I?” answer either, “Yes, you may” or “No, you may not.”
– Make sure the player asks the question and follows instructions. A player who fails to respond to the mother is out of the game (see why we like this one).
– Continue giving commands to the players in any order that you choose. Make them more fun by including crab walks, twirls, doing a dance, etc.
– Play until only Mother and one player are left. The last player left in the game is the winner.
– Trip up players by calling out commands quickly and with authority. Mix them up with questions that aren’t commands to get them out…for example, they have to respond to requests such as “Jump up and down,” “Sit down” and “Tell me your name” are commands. Things like “How old are you?” and “Why are you looking at me?” are not commands.
That’s it, that’s all!
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