Coloring Contests
For a basic activity, give each preschooler a cactus-coloring page. Have him use colors and markers to color the cactus. Make the activity more difficult by having the children try to freehand a cactus. Print pictures of cactus for the children to use as a guide. The children can add a thin layer of glue and green glitter to make the cactus sparkle. They can also glue pieces of uncooked spaghetti noodles or rice to create the cactus needles. Award prizes for the best, most creative and funniest cactus pictures.
Memory Games
Teach your preschoolers letters, numbers and colors with educational cactus games. Print pictures of cactus on small slips of paper and write a different letter or number on each piece of paper (two of each). Place the cards face down and let the preschoolers play a game of memory match. The child who finds the most letter or number matches wins the activity. For another memory game, print cactus in different colors and tape them to a board. Have the children look at the cactus and colors. Ask them to close their eyes and remove one cactus. When they open their eyes, the first child to tell you the color that is missing wins the game.
Tossing Games
An inflatable cactus tossing game is available online and at many retail stores. Inflate the cactus and have the children try to toss the rings on it. You can also make your own by cutting a cactus shape out of cardboard and standing it up. Write a point value on each cactus arm and make your own rings using duct tape and rope. The child who earns the most points wins the game. Alternatively, award a small prize to each child who makes a ring on a cactus arm.
Classic Games
Put a twist on classic party games the preschoolers know. For example, play a game of "Hot Cactus" instead of Hot Potato. Use a plush toy cactus instead of a potato and the last player remaining wins the plush toy. Other ideas include "Musical Cactus" instead of Musical Chairs and a game of "Pin the Needle on the Cactus" instead of Pin the Tail on the Donkey.