Hobbies And Interests
Hoop Rolling Games
Popular in colonial times as a children's game of balance and skill, hoop rolling or trundling can be recreated with a hula hoop and a thick dowel rod. Choose hoop and stick sizes based upon the size of the child. The dowel rod should be at least 12 inches in length. The object of the game is to use the dowel rod to roll the hoop vertically across grass or cement to a finish line without allowing the hoop to fall flat.
Game of Graces
Another colonial outdoor game, "graces," can be re-created using four 18-inch dowel rods and a wooden hoop, nine inches across. Use colorful ribbon to wrap the hoop, while leaving some strands to hang. Standing with a few feet between them, each player holds two dowel rods in each hand, crossed like scissors when open. To throw the hoop, a player hangs the hoop over the cross, then pulls the sticks apart in a swift, graceful motion to toss the hoop to the opponent to catch. The game can be played in pairs or in a circular group.
Ring and Pin Game
The Ring and Pin game is a Native American children's game, similar to the European cup and ball toss. The object is to spear the ring with the dowel rod. Re-create this game by attaching a ring to a thin dowel rod with string. Experiment with string length and ring sizes to adjust skill levels required for game play, making the hoop larger and string shorter for youngsters. Try using colorful pipe cleaners for the ring and decorate with feathers.
Magnetic Fishing Game
Use a dowel rod to craft a fishing game for toddlers or an educational game for preschoolers and up. Tie a magnet to a string and attach to the dowel rod and allow children to take turns fishing for anything magnetic. Use magnetic letters to learn the alphabet, magnetic pictures to learn colors, or attach magnets to objects for themed games. For summer fun, fill a kiddie pool with water and allow the kids to fish for prizes.