Children in Russia have fond memories of spending their childhood playing various games and participating in unique traditions in their neighborhoods. These experiences fostered a sense of community and provided entertainment before the prevalence of the internet and modern technology.

One popular game was “Cossacks and Robbers,” where children divided into teams, with “robbers” creating secret passwords and leaving clues for the pursuing “Cossacks”. The captured “robbers” were taken to a makeshift “prison” and “tortured” for the password, while teammates attempted rescues, with the game ending when the password was revealed or all robbers were captured.

Another favored activity, especially among girls, was playing “elastic band,” requiring at least three players and involving complex jumps and acrobatic elements over an increasingly higher elastic band. Boys, on the other hand, often engaged in making homemade weapons from wood and valued the skill of whistling with two fingers to summon friends for games.

While yard life could be tough, with fights occurring, there were unwritten rules, such as avoiding ganging up on someone or hitting a person who had already fallen. Gambling, often with small stakes, was also a common practice, though it was frowned upon by teachers and parents.

Girls also had traditions like creating “secrets,” burying treasures with close friends to create a sense of unity and a “time capsule.” Building huts from found materials in secluded spots was another popular activity, providing a shelter and space for imagination.

Even in more recent times, children’s folklore continues to thrive, with games like “Zombies” being played in summer camps. Other traditions, such as pillow fights and pranks on “Royal Night,” persist, demonstrating the enduring appeal of childhood games and traditions.