A Pit for Everyone: Linking Reasons for Gaga Ball

Let's Build a Gaga Ball Pit

1Dear Principal Varga, I am writing to ask you to build a gaga ball pit on our playground. A gaga pit is a low wooden wall shaped like an octagon. Players tap a soft ball with their hands, and anyone the ball touches below the knees steps out until the next game. I believe a gaga pit would make recess better for every grade.

2First, a gaga pit would give more students a way to play. Right now, the soccer field and the four square courts are crowded, and some kids end up standing by the fence. A gaga game can include a large group at once. Consequently, fewer students would be left out at recess. Specifically, the third graders who wait in line for four square every day could jump into a game right away.

3In addition, gaga is easy to learn. There are only a few rules, and games are short. Players do not need special shoes or gear. For instance, last summer I taught my six-year-old cousin to play in about five minutes. Because the rules are simple, new students and younger kids could join without feeling nervous.

4Gaga also keeps kids moving. Players duck, jump, and dodge the whole time. As a result, students would come back to class ready to focus. Our teachers often say that a good recess helps us pay attention, which is why a gaga pit would help in the classroom too.

5Finally, a pit would not cost the school much. My dad, who is a carpenter, offered to help build it with other parent volunteers. He has built benches for our school before. Therefore, the school would only need to buy the wood and a few balls.

6For all these reasons, I hope you will say yes to a gaga ball pit. It would give more kids a place to play, welcome new players, and keep us active. Thank you for reading my letter. Sincerely, Lena Brodsky, Grade 5