Nowadays when you see kids with their heads stuck on a gadget, you go into a mini flashback – Your mom shouting your name asking you to come home for lunch, and you wanting to finish that last over. You had your own collection of marbles; your skipping rope had the extra jingles attached. Ahh! Memories!

Before the invention of any electronic gadgets, the so called ‘80’s & 90’s’ kids have had their share of the best gala time. They were physically, socially & mentally active.

This century kids have a favourite question, “What did you do for entertainment during summer holidays in your younger days?”

This is a moment with a faraway look in your eyes and a happy smile playing on your lips, you begin…

‘We went to the library, you know, it’s a big building that houses rows of books,’ you begin on a sarcastic note, ‘and we researched our subject using many books. ‘As far as entertainment,’ you add, clearly warming to the subject, ‘we played many wonderful games all day.’

Impressed by the wicked gleam in your eyes, your kids cry in unison: ‘Tell us all about it.’ You send out a silent prayer for being bestowed upon moments like these that make parenthood worth all that trouble, and say, ‘OK, will tell you about the more popular ones; there were many, mind you…

Gilli Danda: ‘This game dates back 2500 years and is played using two sticks, and it is good for developing your sense of aim, precision and timing.’

Kho Kho: ’The aim here is to avoid being touched by the rival team member and you tag (like the WWE wrestling) your team member to take over. You need to be fit, agile and decisive.’

Ludo: ‘The most commonly played game those days and things can get really serious during the game. The strategy here is to delay your rivals’ progress while speeding up your own.’

Marbles: ‘A game mostly played on the street that required you to be not only good with your aim, but also be able to deal with older and street-smart kids. Was great fun, though.’

Kabaddi: ‘A game that requires strength, athleticism and guile. Playing this rough game involving intense physical action earned you respect from other kids.’

‘Did you really play kabaddi…? ‘ Your kids being keen followers of the game on television are a tad sceptical about your claims.

‘I was the best raider in my school. Playing those other games also helped hone my all round natural athletic and mental abilities,’ you conclude with an exaggerated bow and add, ‘now that summer holidays are here, don’t you want to try out these fun games?’

‘Let’s do it, Sir,’ is the response from your kids.

As far as you are concerned, it’s a mission accomplished and also a lesson learnt: Never let perceptions cloud your opinion.