Children’s and Family Games in the Memories of Jews in Latvia

Abstract

This article analyzes children's and family games that were typical in Jewish families both before and after the Second World War. The article is based on field work with the Jews of Riga and Eastern Latvia (Latgale). In the 20th century in Latvia, as in the world more generally, the traditional Jewish way of life underwent changes that also affected children and their free time. The article describes traditional games preserved in Jewish families until the second half of the 20th century, as well as new types of leisure and game practices that have arisen as a result of the transformation of traditional Jewish life. Particular attention is paid to local features in Latvia.