Shalom! In every corner of the world, children gleefully partake in games that are both engaging and help them connect with their culture, language, and traditions. For this blog post, we’ll be journeying to the heart of the Middle East; Israel. The children here are no different, playing games that are thrilling, educational, and contribute to their understanding of their mother tongue, Hebrew. Let’s dive in and explore a few games Israeli kids adore to play in Hebrew.
1) “Teken” (Catch)
Teken is a popular and straightforward game amongst Israeli children. Translated literally as “catch” in English, the objective is as simple as its name suggests. The game usually involves two players or more, with one person being “it.” This person then chases the others around, aiming to touch or “catch” them. The fun comes when the children incorporate Hebrew words for directions during the gameplay like ‘yemina’ (right), ‘smola’ (left), ‘kadima’ (forward), ‘ahora’ (backward). Children often use this gameplay to practice their direction-giving skills in Hebrew, simultaneously enhancing their vocabulary and understanding of the language.
2) “Kugelach” (Five Stones)
Kugelach, or “five stones,” is a traditional game known to improve hand-eye coordination and counting skills. It originated in the ancient Jewish community over 2000 years ago and still exists today! The game involves five small stones or similar items and requires quick reflexes. Players throw all five stones in the air and aim to catch as many as possible on the back of their hand. Then, they toss them up again and catch as many (or all!) in their palm. The twist? The whole counting and coordination is done in Hebrew! It’s a unique and effective way for children to learn numbers and counting in Hebrew outside the traditional classroom setup.
3) “Kadima!” (Forward!)
This delightful and dynamic game called “Kadima!” works wonders for Israeli children to practice their verb recognition, memory, and speed in Hebrew. Players gather in a circle and pass around an object (like a ball or soft toy) while chanting a Hebrew nursery rhyme or song. When the song or rhyme stops, whoever holds the object shouts out a Hebrew verb starting with the last letter of the previous verb shouted. This game helps greatly in memorizing words and improvising with the language.
4) “Tiv’ol b’Kivun” (Directional Twister)
Who doesn’t love Twister? This classic game is given an Israeli twist to help children learn their body parts names in Hebrew. ‘Tiv’ol b’Kivun’ or ‘Directional Twister’ works just like the classic Twister game. But instead of using the spinner and mat with colors, directions like right, left, forward, and downward are called out, coupled with body parts name in Hebrew. For instance, you may hear commands like ‘Yad yemina al regel smola’ literally meaning ‘right hand on left leg’. This game not only brings a truckload of laughter and hilarity but also serves as an enjoyable way for children to learn and remember various body parts in Hebrew language.
5) “Eifo Danny?” (Where’s Danny?)
Our final entry is the Israeli version of the universally loved Hide-and-Seek game – ‘Eifo Danny?’. This game helps children to learn different place names and prepositions in Hebrew. The hider would give subtle yet challenging clues about their hiding place. The clues are always given in Hebrew and could be something like ‘Ani m’ahorei ha delat’ (I am behind the door) or ‘Ani l’mata me ha shulcahn’ (I am under the table). Older kids can come up with more complex clues, expanding their vocabulary and comprehension abilities of the Hebrew language.
Summary
Through these immersive games, Israeli children not only engage in fun and laughter but also strengthen their grasp of the Hebrew language. They learn through active participation and social interaction – arguably the best way to pick up any language. So if you’re thinking of integrating Hebrew language learning for children, don’t forget to add these games into your mix! Onwards to a playful learning experience! Shalom and happy gaming.