How do children play kittens? - briefly
Children often imitate cats by crawling on their hands and knees, meowing softly, and pretending to lick their paws or chase after toys. This simple game encourages imaginative play and helps children develop motor skills and understanding of animal behavior.
How do children play kittens? - in detail
How do children play "kittens"? The game, also known as "statues" or "red light, green light," is a classic childhood activity that combines elements of tag, freezing in place, and stealthy movement. Here's a detailed look at how it unfolds:
One child is chosen to be the "cat." The cat stands with their back to the other players, who are the "kittens," and says, "I am the cat, you are the kittens. When I say 'meow,' you must freeze like statues." This sets the stage for the game.
The cat then turns around and counts to a predetermined number while the kittens try to sneak up behind them without being detected. If a kitten is caught moving, they must return to their starting point and begin again. Once the counting is finished, the cat says "meow," signaling all kittens to freeze.
The cat then turns around slowly, trying to spot any kittens who are not perfectly still. Any kitten caught moving is out of the game and must sit down or step aside. The last kitten to remain frozen becomes the new cat for the next round.
This cycle repeats, with each new cat setting their own rules for movement—for example, allowing kittens to crawl, hop, or walk on tiptoes. Variations can include changing the signal word from "meow" to another sound or action, such as clapping hands or snapping fingers.
In essence, "kittens" is a game of stealth, patience, and control, where children learn to move quietly and carefully while also developing self-discipline in staying still when needed. It's a timeless favorite that encourages both physical activity and mental focus, making it a staple in playgrounds and backyards around the world.