Remember These? A Look Back at Classic Cambodian Childhood Games
This is a collection of some of the games we played throughout our childhood. I personally miss these games so much! They were the games that created so much fun, gave us great body exercise, and improved our thinking and flexibility.
I notice that kids in this generation have moved from these active games to playing on their electronic devices instead. Hmm 🙂
The Games We Played Outdoors
Chol Chhoung (ចោលឈូង)
A classic group game where two teams of boys and girls throw a "chhoung" (a tied-up scarf) back and forth while singing call-and-response songs.
Leak Kanseng (លាក់កន្សែង)
"Hiding the Scarf." Children sit in a circle while one person walks around and secretly drops a scarf behind someone, who must then chase them around the circle.
Teanh Prot (ទាញព្រ័ត្រ)
The classic Tug of War! A game of strength, teamwork, and lots of laughter, especially when one team tumbles over.
Bos Angkunh (បោះអង្គុញ)
A traditional game played during Khmer New Year using Angkunh seeds. Players throw the seeds to hit a target row, aiming to win the opponent's seeds.
Bay Khom (បាយខុំ)
A game of strategy similar to Mancala. Players collect marbles or pebbles ("khom") from small holes dug in the ground, trying to capture all of their opponent's pieces.
Hopscotch
A universal favorite! We drew our own courts in the dirt and hopped for hours, testing our balance and aim with a small stone marker.
Honorable Mention: The Best Snack!
This isn't a game, but we all remember the sweet and sour taste of "Skor Teanh" (ស្ករទាញ). This stretched tamarind candy was an addictive treat we enjoyed from a young age!
These games were more than just fun. They taught us teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. They filled our afternoons with laughter and kept us active, creating memories that last a lifetime.
