Pedagogical potential of traditional folk games of Sivershchyna in the contemporary system of physical education for schoolchildren

The article examines the pedagogical potential of traditional folk games of Sivershchyna within the contemporary system of physical education for pupils in Grades 5–7. The relevance of using traditional folk games as a means of increasing pupils’ physical activity, developing physical fitness and fostering national and cultural values is substantiated. Purpose. The purpose of the article: the study aims to substantiate the pedagogical potential of traditional folk games of Sivershchyna, select and systematise these games, and develop methodological approaches to their integration into the educational process of general secondary education institutions. Material and Methods. The study employs methods of analysis and synthesis of scientific and methodological, historical and pedagogical, and ethnographic literature, as well as systematisation, classification and pedagogical modelling. Results. The study identifies the main areas in which traditional folk games can be used pedagogically in the physical education of pupils. The games are systematised according to their educational and physical development objectives, the nature of motor activity, rules of play and potential applications in the educational process. The proposed approach encompasses games involving running, acceleration, changes of direction, dodging, chasing, jumping, collective motor tasks and compliance with established rules. This systematisation enables teachers to select games in accordance with the objectives of physical education lessons, pupils’ levels of physical fitness and the specific requirements of organising motor activities. The potential of traditional folk games for developing speed, agility, movement coordination, speed-strength abilities and general endurance is explored. It is established that the pedagogical value of game-based activities lies not only in performing motor tasks but also in creating conditions for the development of independence, initiative, resourcefulness, the ability to respond rapidly to changing game situations and decision-making skills. The appropriateness of integrating traditional folk games into various forms of physical education is substantiated, including the preparatory and main parts of physical education lessons, active breaks, sports and recreational events, and extracurricular activities. Methodological approaches to their implementation are proposed. These approaches involve defining the educational objectives of each game, explaining the rules and motor techniques, gradually increasing task complexity, varying the intensity of physical activity, organising pupils into teams and ensuring safe conditions for participation. The use of traditional folk games of Sivershchyna is shown to create opportunities for combining pupils’ physical development with familiarisation with the cultural traditions of their native region. Conclusions. The synthesis of the research findings provides grounds for concluding that traditional folk games of Sivershchyna possess considerable pedagogical potential and can serve as an effective means of diversifying contemporary physical education for pupils. Their systematic use provides methodological opportunities for developing pupils’ fundamental physical abilities, improving motor coordination, increasing interest in physical activity and fostering a positive attitude towards physical education. The integration of physical fitness and health promotion with national and cultural education substantiates the appropriateness of using traditional folk games in physical education lessons, during active breaks and in extracurricular activities.