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Anyone know the modern rules for playing paddy games?

traditional gamespaddy gamesfamily funrules
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17.07.2022
Messages: 1222
WildCat Topic author
17.01.2025 03:17
I'm trying to teach my kids about traditional games, and 'paddy games' came up. My grandparents used to play it, but the rules seem to vary so much depending on which region you are in. Specifically, I'm confused about the scoring system when multiple people are involved. Is it always best to use small pebbles, or can other objects work? Any experienced players who could walk me through the basic setup and the most common variations would be a huge help. Thanks in advance!
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19 Answers
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13.01.2024
Posts: 451
Hicks_C
23.02.2025 17:58
Paddy games? Are you referring to 'Paddy' or maybe 'Paddy-foot' games? The rules vary wildly by state, honestly.
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21.03.2021
Posts: 373
VaultTec
05.04.2025 18:31
For scoring, it usually depends on the specific variation. Some count points per successful throw, others just track who wins the round. Ask your grandparents which specific game they played!
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29.10.2021
Posts: 186
Andrews_C
15.04.2025 15:07
Pebbles are traditional, yes, but smooth river stones work just as well and are sometimes preferred because they are uniform. Size matters more than material, really.
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15.03.2022
Posts: 960
TitanX
03.05.2025 22:37
My cousin taught me a version where the goal is to keep a small pile of pebbles moving. It's more about coordination than pure throwing skill. It's surprisingly difficult for kids!
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24.12.2023
Posts: 1151
CyberNinja
16.05.2025 17:18
If you are in the Midwest, look up 'hopscotch' variations, as sometimes 'paddy games' is just a local name for those. The scoring is usually simple: one point per square landed on.
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09.12.2024
Posts: 156
ShadowLord
27.05.2025 21:17
I think you might be thinking of 'Kubb' or some similar throwing game. If it involves multiple people, the scoring is usually cumulative - the total points scored by the team.
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05.01.2023
Posts: 416
Ally_C
29.05.2025 19:39
Short answer: Use whatever is safe and readily available. Consistency is key for the objects, not the material itself.
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02.09.2022
Posts: 1337
RayTrace in response
05.07.2025 02:49
>> @Original Poster: Regarding the scoring, if multiple people are involved, you need to establish a clear point system at the start. Don't let it become subjective. Maybe assign points for the first throw, the middle throw, and the final throw.
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29.09.2024
Posts: 1301
VoidWalker
29.07.2025 09:33
The basic setup is usually just a marked area and a throwing line. You throw the objects at a target or into a specific zone. It's simple, but mastering the arc takes practice.
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16.07.2023
Posts: 814
Ankor_C
11.08.2025 22:19
I once played a version where you had to hit a designated 'paddy' target with a small stick. The scoring was based on distance and accuracy. It was intense!
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26.04.2022
Posts: 914
MacCready_M in response
12.08.2025 15:06
Can you clarify if the game involves throwing, or is it more of a rolling or tossing motion? That changes the physics and therefore the rules entirely.
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16.03.2022
Posts: 647
Upworth_C
12.08.2025 15:38
If you are teaching kids, start with the simplest version first. Keep the rules basic and fun, rather than focusing too much on complex scoring systems. Let them enjoy the process.
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11.04.2025
Posts: 226
BinaryBeast
25.08.2025 06:02
I remember a variation where you had to throw three pebbles simultaneously and try to land them in a specific formation. It was a mess, but fun.
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01.01.2024
Posts: 358
SynthWave in response
14.09.2025 17:58
>> @Original Poster: For the scoring system, I recommend a tiered approach. For example, 1 point for hitting the outer ring, 3 points for the middle ring, and 5 points for the bullseye. This gives clear objectives.
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15.10.2022
Posts: 825
Myth_C
31.10.2025 02:50
Don't worry too much about the 'official' rules. Traditional games are meant to be adapted. Just make sure everyone agrees on the rules before starting.
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07.09.2022
Posts: 448
XboxFan
29.11.2025 10:42
Smooth, flat stones are best. They maintain their trajectory better than irregular pebbles, which can wobble and make the game unpredictable for beginners.
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21.05.2024
Posts: 1239
SegaDream
30.11.2025 02:45
It's really a local thing. My grandmother's version required you to throw the pebbles while hopping on one foot. It added a whole layer of difficulty and scoring!
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09.07.2025
Posts: 893
RedDragon
13.02.2026 04:07
If you are looking for a structured game, search for 'Toss Games' or 'Target Throwing Games' in your area. That might give you a clearer set of rules to follow.
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15.12.2024
Posts: 224
PixelKing in response
14.03.2026 03:12
The key is consensus. If your grandparents remember a specific rule, that is the rule for your family. Don't overcomplicate it with external rules.

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