Backyard bowling is a simplified version of the family-friendly game played in bowling alleys with wooden pins.
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A trip to the bowling alley is a fun summer activity and kids’ birthday party staple. But the game can be loud and challenging for kids younger than about 8 or 9 years old. Set up a backyard bowling game that you can play as a family over and over.
Note that we’re talking about Skittles (played with balls and pins), not the European game bowls/bocce (played with various balls).
Backyard bowling can be played with 2 people but is even more fun with teams of 2 to 4.
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How to play backyard bowling
Lawn bowling set
A lawn bowling set includes 10 pins and 2 balls. Wooden sets are durable and less likely to tip over in the wind or on grass. Sets for toddlers may include fewer pins.
Setting up the pins
Start by setting up the pins in a triangle formation, starting with one pin at the front. Pins should be a few inches apart.
Decide how far away players will stand when throwing the ball. Although 12 to 15 feet is a good distance, you may want to shorten that for young children.
Simple lawn bowling rules
Each player takes a turn rolling the ball underhanded on the grass toward the pins. The goal is to knock down all the pins. When all the pins are knocked down on the first throw, that’s called a strike. If they’re not all knocked down, the player gets a second throw at the remaining pins. When all the pins are knocked down on the second throw, that’s called a spare.
Add up the points for that turn, then set up the pins again and pass the ball to the next player. Players continue for 10 rounds. Whoever has the highest score at the end wins.
How to win backyard bowling
On each person’s turn, they get one or 2 throws.
For the first throw, each pin is worth 1 point. For a strike, add the score from the next 2 turns. If the player gets a strike, their turn is over. If they don’t, they get a second throw.
For the second throw, each pin is also worth 1 point. For a spare, add the score from the next turn.
Variation: To simplify scorekeeping, choose a standard value for strikes and spares, such as 10 points for strikes and 5 points for spares. Getting strikes and spares is challenging, even for adults, so you may not need to worry about this too much.
After 10 rounds, add up the points for each team. Whoever has the most wins.
Backyard bowling is a great family game to play together. Use a pencil and paper to keep score. It’s a great way for kids to practice math skills too. Keep the rules as simple as you like and have fun with it!
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