The air at Early Years Campus, Malir buzzed with a different kind of energy this week. Our Early Years and Lower Primary students embarked on a delightful journey back in time, rediscovering the simple, unadulterated joy of traditional games!
Our playgrounds echoed with the rhythmic thud of a makeshift ball hitting carefully stacked stones in Pitto (Seven Stones). Shrieks of laughter erupted as teams strategized, aimed, and scattered the pile, the thrill of rebuilding under pressure palpable. The concentration on their little faces as they took aim was a beautiful sight, a different kind of focus than we often see indoors.
Then came the hushed whispers and giggles of Chuppan Chupai (Hide and Seek).
And who could forget the playful chaos of Ankh Macholi (Blind Man’s Buff)? Blindfolded and giggling, our little seekers stumbled and reached, guided by the excited shouts and playful dodges of their friends. The trust and gentle guidance shared between the children were heartwarming to witness. It wasn’t just about catching someone; it was about spatial awareness, listening skills, and the sheer fun of the chase.
Beyond these favorites, we also saw enthusiastic rounds of Kona Kona where hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes were put to the test.
This foray into traditional games wasn’t just about fun and games, though that was certainly a significant part of it! We observed some wonderful developmental benefits:
Gross Motor Skills: Running, jumping, throwing, and dodging all got a fantastic workout.
Social Skills: Teamwork, communication, negotiation of rules, and taking turns were naturally integrated into the play.
Problem-Solving: Strategizing in Pitto, finding clever hiding spots in Chuppan Chupai, and predicting movements in Ankh Macholi all require thinking on their feet.
Cultural Connection: It was a beautiful way for our young learners to connect with their heritage and experience games that have brought joy to generations. Many children went home eager to ask their grandparents about other traditional games they played.
The echoes of laughter and the rosy cheeks at the end of the day were the best indicators of the success of this initiative. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes, the simplest forms of play are the most engaging and beneficial for our young learners. We plan to continue incorporating these traditional games into our outdoor play and physical education, ensuring that the joy and learning they offer are not forgotten.
