Childhood

Children played outdoors with other children as the neighbourhood was one large playground, with older siblings minding younger ones. Organised activities included Sunday School, the Guildry, Scouts and Guides and for some people being involved in a sport provided a social life. Otherwise, Saturday morning cinema was a source of entertainment for children in a pre-television era.

Meals were cooked by Mum and eaten at home – many came home for lunch as well as supper. But the food was very plain with mince and tatties being a staple diet. Those with connections to the fishing industry might have had fish regularly and those with allotments got vegetables when they were in season. Fruit was rare.

From toys that can no longer be bought in stores, forgotten games and rhymes, to activities, like picnicking, still popular to this day, read on to learn more about games and play for our cohort members.

Beddies

"Remember during our younger years when all you needed was chalk and a flat stone to play this game?" – Bill 

Toy rabbit

"This is Ghazi my rabbit who has been with me for over 60 years. He was a gift from family friends and was named by me after one of one of my maternal grandmother's lodgers who came from the Middle East. I'm told the name created puzzled reactions when people asked what my rabbit's name was. He has worn very well, though his appearance is a little spoilt by the fact his ears had to be sewn back on a few times when I pulled them off!" – Caroline

Cycling Proficiency Badge

"The National Cycling Proficiency badge and certificate was presented to children of our generation after passing a road safety cycling course at primary school.  I’m sure many children of the 50s would have had one - did you?" - Aileen

Sunday picnics

During the summer months we often met on Sunday after church for family picnics. We would set off with a flask, some sandwiches, a ball and a long rope. The men would be dressed in their three-piece suits including their Trilby hats and the ladies would be wearing dresses, coats and their hats! (No tracksuits and trainers then). - Sandra

Read more of Sandra's childhood memories in her Memory Essay.

Read Liz and Dorothy's memories of games and past times.

Song lyrics, 'The Big Ship Sails on the Ally-Ally-Oh'

The Big Ship Sails on the Ally-Ally-Oh

Singing of nursery rhymes and street songs was common.

Track performed by Carol Laula and reproduced with kind permission from Scottish Book Trust.

Discover which other games, rhymes and street songs the Cohort remember.