A fun, physical game which can be used to spark a discussion with pupils about being a resilient learner. What can we do when we find our learning challenging? This game will help pupils understand the importance of persistence and problem solving.
Activities
Using a slippery floor, have children lie on a paper plate/piece of paper/fabric.
- Can children move across the floor while keeping the plate or other object attached to their tummy?
Use masking tape on the floor to demark a start or finish. - Evolve the activity by creating a treasure hunt along the way, collecting objects or arranging obstacles to move around or underneath. Children could try it on a different part of their body, for example on their side, sitting down using feet to push along.
- Some children may find the crawling activities challenging or frustrating but with gentle encouragement and observing others, persistence can be modelled.
Reflection
- Observe how children evolve the game and create their own rules. Do they persevere or give up easily?
- Do they have difficulty in a more physical task or does a child who is not verbally communicating excel in a physical challenge?
Go further
Go Further: Use bubbles and blow them above the children lying down, asking them to pop them with their toes. Play slow, calm music and pause in between bubble blows to breathe or count breaths.
Persistent - Sticking with Difficulty:
Children are encouraged to use their bodies to overcome a challenge. These types of movement activities support hand-eye coordination and body/spatial awareness, relieve body stress and support greater levels of self-regulation.
