In her introductory note author Sharon O’Bryan asks whatever happened to children’s games? Sadly, computer and electronic games do seem to have taken over from “kick the can” and “tag”. While I fully support the necessity of teaching children how to use computers, I agree with the author’s belief that the playing of computer games does not “encourage camaraderie, physical activity,co‐ordination and social interaction as old‐fashioned games do”. Sadly, I also seem to be among a dying breed of mothers who hold children’s parties in my own home with games, rather than at a trampoline, soft play or fairy centre.
This book is for all those who care for or work with children from 2‐12, who wish to enrich their children’s lives with songs, activities, action games and card games. It is divided into five main categories covering Outside games, Car games, Card games, Singing games and Campfire songs, and Part games. Although many of these games do indeed stimulate the imagination, development of memory and increase confidence, basically they facilitate an old‐fashioned concept called “fun”. Many of my favourites are included here, for example; Animal,vegetable or mineral, Car count, Old maid, Blind man’s buff, Grandmother’s trunk and Musical chairs.
The collection does have an American bias, not surprisingly, but many of the games are much the same as British ones, with perhaps a slightly different name or angle. I am sad this collection of games is even called “old‐fashioned” in its title. We need to redress this loss to our culture and for the sake of our children, encourage the playing of card, party and other games. I recommend purchase of this book for every public and nursery and junior school collection. It is an excellent resource for parents, carers and teachers.
