In ancient Egypt, sports and games were an important part of everyday life and were enjoyed by people of all ages and social classes. Physical fitness was highly valued, and participating in sports helped people maintain their health and vigor. Popular sports included fishing, rowing, javelin-throwing, boxing, wrestling, weightlifting, gymnastics, and field hockey. Boys and girls played different sports reflecting the values expected of their genders. Boys engaged in competitive team sports like field hockey, while girls were involved in gymnastics and gymnastic dance. Both boys and girls were taught to swim from an early age. Sports were not only played for fun but also formed an integral part of religious ceremonies, festivals, and celebrations of military victories.

In addition to sports, the ancient Egyptians enjoyed various forms of entertainment and games. They played board games like Senet and Hounds and Jackals. Senet was the most popular board game and was played by two players on a board of thirty squares. The objective was to move all of one's pieces to the opponent's end of the board while preventing them from doing the same. Senet was not just a game but also symbolized one's journey from life to eternity. The game was associated with the afterlife and the gods, and it was often depicted in artwork and mentioned in ancient texts.

Children in ancient Egypt also had a variety of toys to play with. They played with dolls made of cloth or wood and figures of women and men. Toys were often attached to pieces of rope or string, and there were toy horses, chariots, cats, dogs, mice, frogs, and birds. Some toys were mechanized, like a mechanical dog that moved forward when a lever was pressed. Young Egyptians also played with balls, tops, rattles, and miniature weapons. These toys helped children develop their imagination and provided them with entertainment.

Recreation in ancient Egypt involved spending time outdoors and engaging in various activities. Children played in yards or streets, and both boys and girls were depicted playing games and engaging in physical activities. Storytelling was another popular form of entertainment, and Egyptians enjoyed hearing stories of gods, heroes, and moral tales. These stories were often shared at gatherings, festivals, and parties. They provided entertainment while also imparting moral lessons and values to the listeners.