by Maxine A. Randall
May/June issue, 2008
Old Fashioned Games

© 2004-2011 Speakable Gifts
What fun your kids can have this summer! Computer games are quite enjoyable
and sure do come in handy on cold wintry days or nasty rainy ones, but now that
it's warm and sunny, let them get out and be active like we were in the good ole'
days. Helps build brain power, keeps them happier, and, of course, promotes
their good health by  getting fresh air in the lungs (well as fresh as we can get
nowadays); soaking in the Vitamin D that's so plentiful this time of year; building
strong bones. And it's cheaper than the amusement park.

So, they get their chores done, do their gardening, and then play outdoor games!
That's what many of us did and we sure did love it. There's little doubt they will
too. After an excursion around the web, I've come up with a few helpful
sites--pick and choose which you'd like to look at, depending on which games or
activities you're interested in. Swimming, the favorite hot weather activity, isn't
included here simply because that's obviously going to be a part of almost
everyone's summer, from one generation to another.

Maybe some of us who are a bit older could find some benefits from joining in for
ten minutes or so. The kids would get a kick out of that!

Some suggested games/activities and a site for each one, in case you don't know
the rules:
JUMP ROPE

There are other links here, so you may want to use them. Also links to sites that
will tell all the benefits of this healthy outdoor activity.
HOPSCOTCH

How well do you know the rules? Learn all about this great game at this site. Most
of us have played on the sidewalk or driveway, using chalk to draw the playing
court, but mats can be purchased which can be used indoors or out. If your children
have never played hopscotch, please don't let another summer go by without it.
FOUR SQUARE

suitable places, even in the playroom. But we're focusing on the outside, so if you
have a patio, you're in good shape. Or if your street situation is safe, that will do
great. Well, the rules are here at this site.
SIMON SAYS

I'd venture a guess that practically everyone knows the rules to this one. Usually,
the more players, the more fun. It can be played anywhere that you have room and
you need no equipment. All you need is the imagination of the Simons! In the
course of getting exercise, the children can also learn fair play and other important
issues. Wikipedia has a few interesting facts, including the rules.
BADMINTON

Officially, this game is to be played on a court with a net, as is tennis, but it's also  
a game that's great for the backyard. You can use a rope tied to a couple of poles
or trees. You can have two players, or quite a few players. And you don't have to
be a "stickler" about the rules. Just let the kids have fun! Of course, you need to
have the birdie and rackets on hand--a worthwhile purchase.
MARBLES and JACKS*

These two old favorites are best played outside on the porch or patio. They're
wonderful for city children as they are perfect games played while sitting on
sidewalk or steps. I can't say enough for these  games of skill and strategy.
Somewhere between the ages of 5 and 9, your youngsters should be encouraged
to "try their hands" at one or both of them, which will not only help with hand/eye
coordination, but brain power as well.
*When we played jacks, we would bounce the ball rather than throw it.
And as we increased in skill, we were not allowed to touch the jacks
that were not picked up. The people who were the best at it became
quite skilled in throwing them so that they'd be scattered a certain way.
This was especially important when picking up four or more. It's so
much fun, believe me. And we had "tournaments" with both boys and
girls. Spent many summer days this way and we kept out of trouble!
  • And don't forget softball! Many children are in more organized
    settings for this all time favorite, so I didn't put it on the list.

  • Indoor games, such as checkers, may be a suitable for winter.

  • It would probably be fun (and sometimes advisable) for
    parents to get in on the activities now and then. Oftentimes
    we come in handy as referees. We also make good rope
    holders for jump roping contests. (Be on the lookout for good
    and tasteful rhymes for this sport.)