Aýterek Günterek (game) facts for kids

Aýterek Günterek (also called Ak Terek Gök Terek) is a fun children's game from Central Asia. It's a bit like "Red Rover" that some of you might know!

What Does the Name Mean?

The name Aýterek Günterek comes from the Turkmen language. It means "The moon tree and the sun tree." This cool name gives a hint about the game's playful spirit. People in other Central Asian countries might call it by different names.

How to Play Aýterek Günterek

This game needs at least two teams. Each team stands in a straight line, facing the other team. Players in each line hold onto each other's arms very tightly.

The first team starts by chanting, "Who do you need?" The second team then calls out the name of a player from the first team.

The player whose name was called then runs as fast as they can towards the second team's line. Their goal is to break through the linked arms of the other team.

• If the player breaks through the line, they get to choose one person from the second team. That person then joins the first team.
• If the player does not break through, they must join the second team.

The game continues with teams taking turns. The goal is to get as many players as possible on your team. This game is very similar to "Red Rover," a popular children's game played in many Western countries.

Aýterek Günterek in Pop Culture

The game is so well-known that it inspired a song! Myahri, a singer from Turkmenistan, sang a song named after this very game.