Popular Children’s Games in Turkey
Turkey has a young, vibrant population, and playing outside is still a big part of childhood. In many neighborhoods, especially in villages and small towns, it’s common to see groups of children filling the streets with laughter. Traditional games are passed down from generation to generation, helping kids stay active while building friendships and learning cooperation. Let’s take a look at three of the most beloved games children play in Turkey.
Körebe (Blind Catcher)
Körebe is a classic game of tag with a twist: the player who is “it” is blindfolded! In this game, one child is chosen as the “ebe” (the seeker) and has to catch the others without being able to see. The other children sneak around quietly—or giggle while trying not to get caught! When someone is tagged, they become the next ebe.
Körebe helps children develop spatial awareness, listening skills, and agility. It’s often played indoors or in a garden with plenty of room to move. The game is simple, requires no equipment, and brings lots of laughs.
Saklambaç (Hide-and-Seek)
Saklambaç is the Turkish version of hide-and-seek, and it’s just as fun! One child counts with eyes closed while the others hide. After counting to an agreed number, the seeker shouts “Hazırım!” (“I’m ready!”) and begins searching.
Kids love this game because it sparks creativity and encourages quick thinking. Whether hiding behind trees, under stairs, or inside closets, children learn strategy and teamwork while playing.
In villages and open neighborhoods, saklambaç can go on for hours—especially in the evenings when families gather outside and children have more space to run and hide.
Uzun Eşek (Long Donkey)
Uzun Eşek is a high-energy team game usually played by boys, especially in schoolyards or large outdoor spaces. In this game, a line of players bends down, forming a “donkey,” while others take turns running and jumping onto their backs. In some versions, riders stay seated for a few seconds—just like riding a real donkey!
The goal is to keep balance and avoid collapsing the line. It’s a playful game full of laughter and excitement, testing both coordination and strength. Some versions include a guessing challenge where the riders ask the “donkey” a question before switching roles.
Why These Games Matter
Traditional games like Körebe, Saklambaç, and Uzun Eşek are more than just fun—they help build strong social bonds and cultural identity. They teach cooperation, respect for rules, and friendly competition. Best of all, they require no fancy equipment, just imagination and a few friends.
You can bring this joyful spirit into your home by exploring language and culture through interactive play. Dinolingo offers Turkish lessons for kids that include games, songs, stories, and videos to make learning fun and engaging. Whether your child is just starting out or already knows some Turkish, Dinolingo brings the joy of learning to life.