2 days ago
Top 30 playground games from marbles to British Bulldog
A poll of 2,000 adults has unveiled the enduring popularity of traditional children's games, with classics like marbles, British Bulldog, conkers and 'What's the Time, Mr Wolf?' making the top 10 list.
The study revealed that over half of the adults surveyed played outdoor games daily during their school years. Other beloved playground pastimes included football cards, yo-yos, 'Cat's Cradle' and hopscotch.
Most adults felt these activities were instrumental in forming friendships when they were younger, with nearly three-quarters saying these interactions are some of their most cherished childhood memories.
Gillian McMahon, executive director of international charity Right To Play, commented: "Play is a deep-rooted part of childhood in the UK; however, millions of children globally are unable to claim this basic right."
Right to Play is dedicated to transforming the lives of millions of children annually through play. Gillian added: "Extreme challenges such as conflict, poverty, child labour and early marriage are depriving many vulnerable children of the childhood they deserve."
The research was released to coincide with International Day of Play on June 11. This UN-recognised day aims to raise awareness about the vital importance of play for children, and emphasise it as a fundamental right.
According to the research, most adults are not aware that children's right to play is protected by international law.
However, a significant majority of 67% agree that every child should have the right to play, recognising its benefits, including physical exercise, forming friendships, and developing essential social skills like empathy and cooperation.
Gillian McMahon emphasised: "Many children are denied the chance to just be kids. We are working to change this situation.
"Through our global programmes, we are reaching more than 4.7 million vulnerable children each year in some of the most difficult places on earth.
"Using the power of play we are helping children to stay in school, resist exploitation, overcome prejudice and heal from the trauma of war and displacement."
TOP 30 PLAYGROUND GAMES OF ALL TIME:
Hide and Seek
Tag/You're It
Skipping ropes (solo and group games)
Marbles
Hopscotch
Conkers
British Bulldog
What's the Time, Mr Wolf?
Football stickers
Football cards
Hand clapping games (e.g. A Sailor Went to Sea, Miss Mary Mack)
Cat's Cradle
Yo-Yos
Simon Says
Sticker albums
Stuck in the Mud
Duck, Duck, Goose
Top Trumps
Swingball
Ring-a-Ring o' Roses
Elastics
Paper fortune tellers (chatterboxes)
'The Floor is Lava'
Pokemon cards
Tamagotchis
Pogs
Grandma's Footsteps
Sleeping Lions
Double Dutch
Loom bands
