Boules facts for kids
Boules is a fun group of games where players throw or roll heavy balls as close as possible to a small target ball. This small ball is often called the jack or cochonnet. These games are similar to bowls and bocce. In France, the balls are called boules, and in Italy, they are called bocce.
Contents
What are Boules Games?
Boules games are all about accuracy. The main goal is to get your ball closer to the jack than your opponents' balls. Players take turns throwing their balls. The game continues until all balls are thrown. The player or team with the ball closest to the jack wins points.
Where are Boules Games Played?
Boules games are very popular in many European countries. You can also find them played in some countries that used to be French colonies in Africa and Asia. People often play these games in open areas like town squares or parks.
Special Playing Areas
Sometimes, there are special places built just for boules games. These are usually large, flat, rectangular courts. They are often made of packed earth, gravel, or crushed stone. Wooden rails or boards might surround the playing area. This helps keep the balls in play and defines the court.
How Do You Play Boules?
Playing boules is quite simple to learn. First, a player throws the small target ball (the jack) onto the playing area. Then, players take turns throwing their larger boules. Each player tries to land their boule as close to the jack as they can. Players can also try to knock away an opponent's boule that is too close to the jack. This makes the game exciting and strategic!
Images for kids
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Boules player, by Paul Gavarni, 1858.
See also
In Spanish: Deportes de bolas para niños
