Old-School Fun: Traditional Portuguese Games That Kids Still Love

In Portugal, traditional children’s games have been passed down from grandparents to grandchildren for many generations. What makes these games special is that they don’t need any fancy toys or gadgets—just a few friends and lots of imagination! These fun and active games are still played in schoolyards, parks, and during holidays across the country.

The Boatman (Bom Barqueiro)

This game is all about teamwork and imagination. Two kids stand facing each other and hold hands to form an arch. Each one secretly chooses a word, like a fruit or an animal. The rest of the children form a line and walk under the arch while singing:

“Oh Lord Boatman, let me pass,
I have little kids I must raise,
I have [fruit/animal/country],
Pass, pass away!”

As each child walks under the arch, the last one gets “caught” and chooses one of the secret words. They then go behind the player who had picked that word. The game continues until everyone has joined the arch, forming a long bridge of children—until it falls with laughter!

The Snail Game (Caracol)

This classic game is both fun and challenging. First, a large spiral (like a snail’s shell) is drawn on the ground. One player tosses a small stone into the spiral and then tries to gently kick it from the outside into the center, step by step, without making it leave the spiral. If the stone goes out of bounds, it’s the next player’s turn. The goal is to reach the center without messing up!

The Wheel of Cabacinha (Roda da Cabacinha)

This game is all about balance and speed. Two children start by holding hands and slowly walking in a circle. As they move, more kids join in by holding hands and adding to the circle. Once someone calls out “Cabacinha wheel! Wheel!” the group picks up speed and runs in a circle without letting go of each other’s hands. The challenge is not to fall or break the chain!

Why These Games Matter

These Portuguese games help kids stay active, build friendships, and learn how to cooperate. They are part of Portugal’s cultural heritage and are still loved today because they are simple, creative, and fun for all ages. With Dinolingo’s Portuguese program, children can explore not just the language but also the playful spirit of Portugal through songs, stories, and cultural games.