devítka

Devítka is a traditional Czech and Slovak children's game that is typically played outdoors, often during summer. The game involves a group of players, usually children, who form a circle while one player, known as the "devítka" (literally meaning "nine" in Czech and Slovak), stands in the center. The name "devítka" refers to the fact that the game is often played with nine players, though the number can vary.

The game begins with the players in the circle holding hands and singing a song, such as "Devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka, devítka." The song's lyrics vary by region, but the melody is generally the same. As the song is sung, the players in the circle move their hands in a circular motion, and the player in the center tries to step on someone's hand without being tagged themselves.

When the song ends, the player in the center must quickly find a spot in the circle. If they succeed, they continue as the "devítka" for the next round. If they fail, they are out of the game, and a new player takes their place in the center. The game continues until only one player remains, who is declared the winner.

Devítka is often played as a warm-up activity or during breaks, fostering teamwork and physical activity among children. It is a simple yet engaging game that has been enjoyed for generations in Central Europe.