Bunnies in the Cardboard Burrows

Several burrows made from big open boxes are linked by fabric and cardboard tunnels; the bunnies hop out to gather carrots in the meadow and, when the fox comes, dive into any burrow. It practices quick route choices, running with changes, and handling a little scare.

How to play

1. We crawl through all the burrows and connecting tunnels together to learn every entrance (2 min).
2. The teacher scatters carrots in the meadow; the bunnies hop out and each one brings a carrot back to any burrow (3 min).
3. Here comes the fox (the teacher, slowly): at “Fox!” everyone runs to hide in any burrow or tunnel; the fox never goes inside (3 min).
4. The fox falls asleep and the bunnies visit each other, crawling from burrow to burrow through the tunnels (2 min).
5. Two kids join the teacher as foxes and we play again; bunnies choose the closest burrow (4 min).
6. Tired bunnies stay in their burrow, nibbling pretend carrots very slowly (1 min).

Rules

• Nobody can tag me in a burrow.
• The fox doesn't go into burrows.
• If a burrow is full, I find another one.
• I crawl through the tunnels.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child's burrow is a big hoop right beside them, safe by touching it; they can also be the lead fox with the teacher.
• Autism: the child can stay in one burrow as the “guard bunny” and come out whenever they want.
• Hearing impairment: the fox warning is an orange scarf held up high.

Learning goals

• Decide quickly where to go.
• Switch between running, hopping, and crawling.
• Enjoy a chase with no one out.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Large cardboard boxes: 8
• Fabric play tunnels: 3
• Hoops: 2
• Fabric or foam carrots: 25

Teacher tip

Face the burrow openings toward the middle and weigh them down with beanbags so they don't tip when kids rush in. Make sure there are enough hideouts for everyone so no single burrow gets packed.

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