Hobbies And Interests
Group Games
Group games are well received on the playground. The games require more than two players, but they are not the same as team games. When playing group games, the children work independently of each other. "Tag" is an example of such a game. The game requires at least three players -- the more the better. One player chases the other players and attempts to tag them. When the chaser tags someone, that person then must chase the players and attempt to tag someone else. Variations of the game exist, but the concept is basically the same for all variations. Playing the game is simple, and any child that is physically and mentally able to participate may do so.
Team Games
Team games require the participation of two or more teams, depending on the game the children are playing. Team games teach children how to cooperate with their teammates and how to verbally communicate with each other. Team games can also teach children about self-confidence, determination and problem-solving. When most people think of team games, they think of traditional sports games such as football, basketball or baseball. However, there are other fun choices as well that don't even require equipment. "Red Rover" is an example, and it requires two teams to play. Each team forms a line, with team members holding hands and facing the opposing team. Each team takes turns calling a child's name from the opposing team. For instance, team one might say, "Red Rover, Red Rover, let Cindy come over." Cindy runs away from her team and tries to break through the other team's line. If Cindy succeeds, she takes one player from the team back to her team. If Cindy fails, she joins the opposing team. Play continues until one team has one person remaining. The winning team is the team that gains all the players.
Solitary Games
On those days when the playground is practically empty, a child can still find something to do. "Hopscotch" is an example of a game that works just as well with one player as it does with multiple players. Some playgrounds have Hopscotch boards permanently drawn onto an area of the ground. If not, all it takes is a piece of chalk to quickly draw a playing board on the concrete. The board generally consists of a series of linear squares that alternate between one square and two squares. Squares also are numbered from one to 10. The child tosses a rock into the first square, and proceeds to hop into the other squares without touching the sides or falling over. After the first time, the player repeats the process with all the other squares. The goal is to work through the entire board without falling over, stepping on a line or missing a square with the rock.
Playground Precautions
The playground is a place for fun, but safety is an issue as well. All the fun stops when someone gets hurt. Children should never visit the playground without adult supervision. An adult doesn't have to intrude on the action, but an adult should at least have a clear view of the children. If an accident occurs, then an adult can provide help for the child or children involved. If a parent isn't available, then a caregiver such as a grandparent, aunt or nanny can accompany the child.