Catch the Stick

Catch the Stick is an Egyptian children's game which requires quick thinking and good co-ordination.

Age: Adults and older children

No. of players: 3+ players

Equipment: one stick for each player (about 1.5 metres/5 feet long)

Time: 5-10 minutes per round

Aim: To catch the next stick on your right before it falls down.

1. Players form a large circle, with about 5 paces between each player. Players must hold their sticks upright in front of them with one end touching the ground and the sticks held towards the middle of the circle.

2. The leader calls out the word 'Change'. Everyone lets go of their stick with it remaining balanced. They run to the next stick on their right and try to catch it before it falls to the ground.

3. If a player fails to catch their neighbour's stick before it falls to the ground they are out of the game and take the stick with them.

4. The circle is reduced in size to remove the gaps and make it easier for all players to compete fairly.

5. The winner is the player who is left after everyone else's sticks have fallen.