Laugh, Play, Learn: Portuguese Games Kids Will Love
Traditional Portuguese games have been played for generations and are still loved today. One reason they stayed popular for so long is because they don’t need expensive toys or equipment. Children of all backgrounds could join in and have fun together using bottle caps, rocks, chalk, or even just their imagination.
Here are some of the most popular games children in Portugal enjoy:
| Game Name | How to Play | What You Need |
|---|---|---|
| Sameiras (Bottle-caps) | Like marbles: flick your bottle cap into a circle to knock others out while keeping your own inside. The last cap in the circle wins. | Bottle caps, circle on the ground |
| Malha | Players throw metal discs (or rocks) at a stake. 3 points for knocking it down, 1 point for getting closest. Most points wins. | Metal discs or rocks, a stake |
| Bom Barqueiro | Two kids (the ferriers) hold hands. Others walk under and recite a rhyme. The last child is “caught” and picks a secret word. Teams are formed and play tug-of-war. | No materials |
| Macaca (Hopscotch) | Just like hopscotch: draw squares, throw a rock, hop and pick it up. | Chalk and a small rock |
| O Rei Manda | Like Simon Says: “The king orders you to jump”—if the command includes “O Rei Manda,” you must do it! | No materials |
| Apanhadas (Tag) | Classic game of chasing. One child is “it” and runs to tag others. | No materials |
| Futebol (Soccer) | Children make goalposts from bags, sticks, or shoes. Teams kick the ball to score. Goalkeepers try to block it. | A ball and anything for goals |
These games show how Portuguese kids use creativity and teamwork to have fun. Whether with bottle caps or just a song, the joy comes from playing together.
Want to Learn More Through Play?
At Dinolingo Portuguese for Kids, you can discover the Portuguese language while exploring the country’s culture, songs, and traditional games. Dinolingo makes learning fun for kids aged 2–14 through interactive lessons, stories, and activities that bring Portugal to life!
