Tilkkastmine

Tilkkastmine is a traditional Estonian folk game, a form of tag played with a specific object. The game typically involves a group of players, and the core mechanic revolves around the "tilk," which can be a small object like a stone, a piece of wood, or even a dried leaf. One player is designated as the "tilkkastja" (the one who throws the tilk).

The objective for the tilkkastja is to throw the tilk as far as possible. Once the tilk is thrown, all other players scatter. The tilkkastja then retrieves the tilk and attempts to tag another player by throwing the tilk at them. If a player is hit by the tilk, they become the new tilkkastja, and the game continues. If the tilk is caught by a player before it hits the ground, that player might be exempt from being tagged or might even become the tilkkastja immediately, depending on the specific variations of the game.

Tilkkastmine is often played outdoors in open spaces like fields or yards. The rules can vary from region to region and even among different groups of children, with slight modifications to how a player is tagged or what happens when a player is caught. It is a simple game that encourages running, throwing, and quick reflexes, making it a popular pastime among Estonian youth for generations. The game emphasizes spatial awareness and a basic understanding of throwing accuracy.