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Traditional

Pabitin

Also called Rack of goodies, Prize trellis

A bamboo frame hung with toys and candy is lowered and raised while kids jump to grab as many prizes as they can.

people
5–30
time
10 min
energy
Chaos
materials
Needs prep
Kids-safeHR-safeChurch-safe
Watch it played
What you need5
How to play4

Before you start

Tie the prizes on strings under the lattice so they hang at different lengths. Run the rope over a high point so an adult can lower the frame to just above the kids' raised hands and pull it up again.

  1. 1Call kids in by age group; they stand in a circle under the frame.
  2. 2On the count of three, the adult lowers the frame and kids jump to pull off prizes.
  3. 3The frame is raised and lowered a few times to make it a game, then lowered within easy reach for the last grab.
  4. 4Kids keep whatever they pull down. Round over when the frame is empty.
What to say3
  1. 1“Kids, gather under the pabitin! Hands up — are you ready?”
  2. 2“Three, two, one… JUMP!”
  3. 3“Up it goes again! Wait for it… and down!”
Host tips3
  • Running it once for all ages means the tallest kids grab everything and the small ones cry. Always split by age or height, and keep a few spare prizes in your pocket for any child who came away empty.
  • Prizes tied with thick ribbon don't come off — kids end up dangling from the frame. Use thin string or tie with a single loop so a tug pulls it free.
  • Whoever works the rope should tease, not torment: two or three lifts is fun, ten lifts makes the youngest kids give up.
Variants2

  • Two racks

    A low rack for under-6s and a high rack for older kids, run one after the other so the big kids don't take everything.

  • Adults' pabitin

    For a Christmas party, hang gift vouchers, coin envelopes and snacks for adults — same game, lots of laughter.

Safety4
  • Kids push and climb on each other: have an adult in the circle and stop the round if anyone is knocked down.
  • Avoid lollipops with sticks, small hard candy and tiny toy parts if toddlers are in the group (choking).
  • Secure the rope end around a post — if the adult lets go, the frame drops onto children's heads.
  • Check for food allergies before hanging nut-based snacks.
Good for

Occasions

BirthdayFiestaChristmasReunion

Venues

OutdoorIndoor, largeChurch hall
If this one dies early1