Colonial Games and Entertainment — Reading Comprehension

In colonial America, children and adults found creative ways to have fun. Life was not easy, but people still made time for entertainment. Most families lived in small towns or farms. There were no televisions or video games. Children played outside with friends and family.

People used things they found around them to make toys. Sticks, stones, and scraps of cloth became homemade games. Young boys often played with wooden hoops and sticks. Girls liked to make and play with rag dolls. In the winter, children enjoyed sliding down snowy hills on sleds they built themselves.

Many colonial games taught skills needed for daily life. For example, games like tug-of-war or sack races helped children grow strong and fast. They needed these skills to help with chores. Playing together also taught teamwork and problem-solving. On Sundays or special days, whole towns gathered for fairs. There were contests, dances, and races. These events brought people together and built a sense of community.

Adults joined in the fun, too. They played card games and board games like draughts, which is also called checkers. Puppet shows and storytelling were popular at night. Sometimes, people listened to music or danced by candlelight. These activities gave everyone a break from hard work.

Colonial games and entertainment helped people feel closer. They created happy memories and strong friendships. Many of these games, like hopscotch and tag, are still played today.

Interesting Fact: Some colonial children played a game called "rolling the hoop," which became popular in many countries years later!

What did colonial children use to make toys?

Which game helped children grow strong?

What did adults play at night?

Why did people make their own games?

How did fairs help the community?

What is one effect of teamwork in games?

Colonial children played video games.

What does 'homemade' mean?