«A Tapar la Calle»: The Chain That Blocks the Street

Half the class forms a hand-in-hand chain that walks forward singing the traditional Spanish song «A tapar la calle» («Block the street so nobody passes»), while the other half are grandpas strolling and eating fritters. When the song says «let my grandpa through,» the chain lifts its arms and lets them pass. It works on moving as a group without letting go, and teamwork.

How to play

1. The whole class in one hand-in-hand chain: walk across the yard singing without letting go (2 min).
2. Split into two groups: the chain and the grandpas, who stroll on the other side pretending to eat fritters (2 min).
3. The chain moves forward blocking the street; on «let my grandpa through» it raises its arms into doors and the grandpas pass underneath (3 min).
4. Switch roles: the grandpas become the chain (3 min).
5. Final giant chain with everyone that coils up like a snail shell and uncoils (2 min).

Rules

• In the chain, I don't let go.
• We all walk at the same pace.
• Doors open with arms up high.
• Grandpas pass slowly, no pushing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: in the chain, hold a short rope with neighbors; as a grandpa, make the door wider.
• Visual impairment: always in the middle of the chain, holding two classmates' hands.
• Autism or touch sensitivity: link to the chain with a scarf instead of a hand.

Learning goals

• Move as a group while staying connected.
• Work together to open and close a path.
• Learn a traditional Spanish circle song.

Teacher tip

A chain of more than ten breaks on its own, so make two chains. Practice opening the doors with the chain standing still before playing.

More activities like this

More main activities for Elementary