Interested in learning how to play four square? Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood games or discovering this classic for the first time, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to play four square effectively.

What You Need

Before getting started, gather these basic materials:

• Chalk: Used to draw the four square court on the ground.
• Ball: A rubber playground ball or similar ball that bounces well.
• Flat Surface: A smooth, flat area such as a playground or gym floor.

Setting Up the Game

1. Draw the Court:

• Use chalk to draw a large square divided into four equal smaller squares. Each square should be large enough for a player to stand comfortably inside.

1. Number the Squares:

• Assign each square a number, typically 1 through 4, starting from the top left and moving clockwise.

1. Determine Serving Order:

• Players decide on the serving order, often determined by a quick game of rock-paper-scissors or by mutual agreement.

Playing Four Square

1. Serve the Ball:

• The first player in the serving order stands in Square 4 (the lower right corner) and serves the ball by bouncing it once in their square and then hitting it underhand into another player’s square.

1. Rules of Play:

• The ball must bounce in the receiving player’s square before they hit it.
• Players hit the ball into another player’s square, aiming to bounce it once in that square without letting it bounce again in their own square or hitting it out of bounds.

1. Movement and Positioning:

• Players rotate clockwise through the squares as they advance, moving to a higher-numbered square each time they successfully return the ball to another player’s square.

1. Out of Play:

• If a player fails to return the ball to another player’s square, hits the ball out of bounds, lets it bounce twice in their square, or violates any other rule, they are out and move to the lowest-numbered square (Square 1).

1. Advancement and King/Queen:

• The objective is to advance to Square 4 (the highest square) and hold your position as the King or Queen of the court by defending your square against challengers.

Winning the Game

1. Elimination:

• Players are eliminated when they fail to return the ball correctly, move out of bounds, or make a mistake according to the rules.

1. Rotation:

• As players are eliminated, new players enter at Square 1, and the remaining players move up in the serving order.

1. End of Game:

• The game continues until only one player, the reigning King or Queen of Square 4, remains undefeated.

Conclusion

Four square is a dynamic and competitive game that promotes agility, coordination, and strategic thinking. Whether played casually or in a more competitive setting, mastering the rules and techniques of four square can provide hours of enjoyment and friendly competition among players of all ages. By following this guide, you can confidently join in the fun and excitement of one of the most beloved playground games, creating lasting memories and fostering social interaction in the process.