Old dogs teaching new dogs old tricks

You can’t be the hopscotch king if you don’t know how to play the game.

Last week, we received an email about the power of play. We enjoyed the story so much we wanted to share it with you. This is from Simonne Caesar, who has a Masters of Urban and Regional Planning. She resides within the city of New Orleans, Louisiana where she assists communities in disaster recovery and land use planning.

…the church had a “trunk or treat” in the parking lot. There was lots of activities for the kids. As I was walking along, I saw all of this chalk for the kids to use to draw on the ground. The kids…were…just writing their names and drawing pictures when I picked up the chalk and drew the hopscotch thing. Wasn’t I shocked when none of them knew what it was or how to play.
I started to play the game to show them, and a few other ladies came over and joined me. We all started remembering the rules as we went along. One little boy played for the first time and LOVED it. Once he learned the rules, he became the hopscotch king…I think all of us old ladies had fun remembering our childhoods. We were all shocked that the kids had never even seen it before. Can you believe it?!? That’s why these kids are having weight and health issues.

More Resources


woman and child smiling
woman and child smiling

August 17, 2022

How Adults Best Create Supportive Play Communities ›

With over 25 years of experience working with kids in schools, our staff and coaches have learned many things about how to set up the most positive, inviting, engaging play…

students in circle playing game with ball
students in circle playing game with ball

August 17, 2022

Helping kids to find new friends and feel included ›

Play is a natural, safe way that kids can interact with people who are different and rejoice by achieving shared goals. Interacting with people who are different at a young…

two girls playing rock paper scissors
two girls playing rock paper scissors

August 17, 2022

Empowering Kids to Create Their Own Happiness ›

By Playworks and UNICEF Kid Power® When kids’ minds and bodies get active, either while playing or participating in service learning, they experience physical and mental benefits (and support positive…