Nostalgic games that were popular when we were kids

high-jump-style rubber jumping

🧡 [Parent-Child Play / Improving Motor Skills] Nostalgic Showa-Era 'Rubber Band Jump Challenge' — Lots of ways to jump ✌️

Let’s get into classic Showa-era games! Here’s an idea for rubber jumping, similar to high jump.

Rubber jumping is the game where you hook a rubber band around your legs, stretch it, and jump over it alternately.

It seems to have been popular mainly among girls during the Showa period.

What you need is flat elastic.

Start with the height at your ankles.

As you get used to it, raise it to your calves, knees, thighs, and then your waist.

If you practice every day, your athletic ability will improve, and you’ll likely be able to clear higher levels over time.

Long Tail Pulling Game

Inada Elementary Long Tail-Tag Game (SDG 2)

A high-energy, low-contact long tail-tag game.

Each player attaches a long cloth strip or plastic cord to their waist, letting it hang behind them as a “tail.” Once the game starts, everyone runs around trying to grab others’ tails.

Because the tails are long, players can keep their distance while still creating offense and defense, making it fun to strategize without physical contact.

It demands stamina, quick bursts of speed, and keen observation, so younger and older students can compete together on the same field.

The last person whose tail hasn’t been taken is the winner, and despite its simplicity, games often get quite heated.

It’s a cleverly designed activity that balances safety with excitement.

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Chinese jump rope

Let's try rubber band jumping!! #1

Rubber-band jumping is a traditional game that lets children enjoy using their flexibility and sense of rhythm.

A looped rubber band is fixed around the legs of two people, and the jumper hops over the band—above, below, and between it—in various rhythms.

The height and movements vary, starting low and then raising the band to waist or shoulder level to increase the difficulty.

Jumping to a song creates a steady tempo, and everyone around joins in by keeping the rhythm.

There’s no single correct way to jump, which fosters creativity and free thinking.

It’s a smile-filled game whose simple movements and sense of achievement when you succeed appeal to a wide range of ages.

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Big waves, small waves in a long-rope jump

Jump rope with a long rope! #after-school care #outdoor play #long-rope jumping

The “big wave and small wave” version of long rope jumping is a game everyone can enjoy that tests timing and teamwork.

Two people turn the rope, moving it up and down rhythmically, and the jumpers enter in time with the rhythm and jump at the right moment.

For the big wave, the rope is swung up and down in large motions; for the small wave, it’s swung lower and faster—this variation is also recommended.

Counting together out loud boosts a sense of unity, and succeeding creates a strong feeling of togetherness.

As you get used to it, you can add changes to the rhythm or speed up the turns for more advanced play, expanding the ways to enjoy it.

It’s a game that fosters solidarity and a sense of achievement.

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Traditional playground games techniques

Traditional Games: Kendama, Spinning Top, and Yo-yo Tricks (For Elementary School Kids)

Kendama and spinning tops may seem difficult at first, but when you keep trying and finally succeed, you’ll feel a real sense of “I did it!” As you practice, you steadily develop fine finger movements, body balance, and hand-eye timing—that’s a key benefit.

Focusing while you play also nurtures perseverance and a never-give-up attitude.

If you practice and show off your tricks with friends or family, their “That’s awesome!” will give you courage and confidence.

These toys help both mind and body grow while having fun, so give them a try!

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