Flag football lets kids experience all the thrills of football—action, teamwork, and big plays—but in a safer, no-tackle way. It’s fast-paced, fun, and perfect for young players. Flag football works in any setting, from casual backyard games to school leagues. It’s all about having fun with friends while safely pulling flags instead of tackling. In this article, learn how to play flag football for kids with easy rules, tips, and a gear guide

What is Flag Football?

Flag football is a non-contact version of traditional football. Instead of tackling, defenders pull a flag from the player’s belt to stop the play. There is no need for pads or helmets—grab your flags and go!

Why Kids Love It:

• It’s fast, exciting, and easy to learn.
• Everyone gets to participate—no standing around!
• It builds teamwork, fitness, and football skills without the rough stuff.

Flag-Tastic Rules for Beginners

Here’s a kid-friendly breakdown of how the game works:

Teams & Players

• Two teams compete, with 5 to 7 players on each side.
• The goal? Score touchdowns by running or passing the ball into the end zone.

Scoring

• Touchdown = 6 points
• Extra point: Teams can run (1 point) or pass (2 points) after scoring

The Flag Pull

• A play ends when a defender pulls the ball carrier’s flag.
• No tackling, pushing, or grabbing—just quick, sneaky hands!

No Contact Allowed

• No diving or tripping
• No hard blocking
• No grabbing clothes or arms
• Everyone plays safe and fair!

What You’ll Need to Play

Getting started is easy. Here’s the basic gear to play flag football:

• Flag belt with detachable flags
• Comfortable clothes (T-shirts, athletic shorts, etc.)
• Sneakers or cleats for better traction
• Water bottle to stay calm and hydrated
• Mouthguard (optional)—great for extra safety

Wearing team colours or matching shirts makes it even more fun!

Simple Plays & Beginner Tips

Flag football is all about strategy and teamwork. These tips will help you play smart from day one!

Offensive Tips

When your team has the ball, try these winning moves:

• Pass or run the ball depending on the defence
• Communicate with your teammates—call out plays and shout when you’re open
• Find an open space and move into position to receive a pass

Defensive Tips

Defence is just as fun! Here’s how to stop the other team:

• Stay low and balanced so you can react fast
• Watch their hips, not their eyes—hips don’t lie!
• Go for the flag, not the body. Be quick and clean!

Some Advanced Tips

These tips will take your game to the next level:

• Always pull flags, never shirts
• Be a great teammate—cheer each other on and play fair
• Celebrate good plays, even when the other team scores. Good sportsmanship matters!

Printable Rules Cheat Sheet

Here’s a quick reference guide you can use or share with your team to help you learn the game more easily!

What Not to Do:

• No diving
• No hard blocking
• No grabbing clothes or arms
• No tackling or tripping

What You Need:

• Flag belt
• Comfortable clothes
• Sneakers or cleats
• Water bottle
• Mouthguard (optional)

Tips for Offense:

• Pass or run the ball
• Communicate with your teammates
• Move into an open space to receive the ball

Tips for Defense:

• Stay low and balanced
• Watch the hips, not the eyes
• Go for the flag, not the body

Pro Tips:

• Always pull flags, not shirts.
• Support your teammates and play fair.
• Celebrate good plays—even from the other team!

Kids Will Love Flag Football

• It is brimming with vitality, activity, and thrill.
• It is less pressure than tackle football and ideal for newbies.
• It is also fun to be friends with other people, learn teamwork, and become more confident. Each match is like an adventure—you never know the guy who will carry out the next big play!

Ask your school, park district, or local rec centre about flag football leagues near you. Or better yet, set up a pickup game with friends in your backyard. You only need a few players and flags to get the game going!

Many community centres, YMCAs, and youth sports programs offer flag football leagues for different age groups. You can also find starter kits online, including flags, cones, and playbooks. Want to go simple? Use socks or bandanas for flags and create your fun!