Ball on a String Games

Jokari

• This paddle game has provided hours of entertainment for children as far back as the 1950s. Jokari is like ping-pong, badminton, or tennis without the net or table. The object of the game is to hit the ball into the hitting zone. Only one bounce is permitted. This game is played using two sections of a play area--a front section and a back section. Players must stay in the back section when playing. The equipment that makes this game unique is a wooden paddle with a wrist strap and the ball and string, which is attached to an anchored base that sits level on the ground. To start the game, the player gives the ball one bounce and then a whack with the paddle. The ball sails forward to the front section where it is allowed to bounce once before returning to the player. On its return, the player must hit the ball again before it hits the ground, or after one bounce.

Tether Ball

• Tether ball is a game that uses a ball (about the size of a volleyball) that is attached by a string or an elastic cord to a pole, which allows ample movement of the ball. Tether ball takes two people to play, one on each side of the pole. The object of the game is for players to hit the ball back and forth, keeping the ball going in each player's respective direction. The game ends when the ball winds all the way around the pole in one direction. This game can be played by hitting the ball with both fists, or giving the ball a swift one-handed smack.

Swing Ball

• With this kid-friendly game, you will never have to search for a ball. With swing ball, the ball comes attached to a large pole. The attachment sits in a base that is filled with water or sand to hold the equipment in place while you play by kicking or hitting the ball. This is similar to tether ball, but the ball must go around the pole as players make the ball move up and down the pole as it swings around. The object of the game is to see which player can get the ball to reach the top or bottom of the pole first.