Lotto

Lotto (also known as Housey-housey, Tombola and Bolito) originated in Italy. It later developed into Bingo. It is a game of chance, needing no skill to win, so it is suitable for all ages (as long as a child can recognise written numbers).

Age: All ages

No. of players: 4 or more

Equipment: Set of lotto cards (one card per player); Set of numbered squares (1-90); A bag (or similar) to hold the squares. (If you would like to print a set of cards and squares which will open in a new window, click here.)

Time: 10 minutes+

Aim: To be the first player to mark off all the numbers on their card.

Each player will need a separate card, which can be made at home. Each card is divided into three rows of nine squares, with five numbered and four blank squares per row in a random arrangement. The first column can contain only numbers from 1 to 10, the second column (11-20) and so on until the final column contains only numbers from 81 to 90. Each card will have fifteen numbers at random. Make sure that no two cards have the same combination of numbers. You will also need ninety small squares, with each number from 1 to 90 on a separate square. (If you would like to print a set of cards and squares, which will open in a new window, click here.)

1. One player is chosen to be the caller. The caller places all the squares in a bag or box and shakes them up, before withdrawing one square and calling out the number. Any player with that number on their card marks it with a cross. (If you use a pencil, you may be able to erase the marks and re-use the card later.) The square is placed aside until the end of this round.

2. The first player to mark off all fifteen numbers on their card calls out "Lotto!" and wins the game. (The squares which were put aside can be used to check they have not cheated.)

3. A new game can be played with fresh cards.


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