Yet Another Game Banned By Schools In UK
Children make up new games in the playground every day. They are carefully mapped out by children one day, played for a little and then forgotten about in place of something new. One game however has been around for longer than ever and is passed down from generation to generation. This game is popularly known as ‘tag’. This basically involves one or more people being ‘on’ and chasing others around the playground ‘tagging’ other people. When someone is caught they then become the person who is ‘on’ and they then have to chase others. The original chaser is now chased. It’s a very simple game that promotes agility and spatial awareness, as well as improves teamwork and of course fitness levels. You don’t need any expensive toys, and also it can be played anywhere.
Those in charge of Education in the UK however, belief that the game is potentially unsafe and is often discriminatory. Thus, they do not want to see it taking place in schools. Their argument is that children are getting injured during the game by falling on the hard ground where it is usually played. They also say that the game can often escalate into a more physical tussle when there become agreement over whether someone has been caught or not.Their other issue with the game is that when people predictably get left out, this can lead to children feeling isolated. Harold James from the Education Committee says “the unpopular children are often not chosen to take part in the game or are ignored all together….we would like to see more inclusive games”. Mr James went on to say that it also excludes those people with physical disabilities as they have often have no chance of competing in the game.
Other games that have already been outlawed in the UK include kiss chase, conkers, British bulldog and mercy. It does make you wonder what exactly children have left to do now and if bubble-wrapping our kids is the right thing to do. We need to take the wheels from the trainer bikes someday don’t we?
