Chalk Mandalas
In small groups, students draw calm, symmetrical designs with chalk on the blacktop to wind down at the end of class. It encourages creativity, fine motor control, cooperation and a peaceful transition back to the classroom.
How to play
- Form groups of 3–4, give each group a bucket of chalk and a space on the blacktop at least 3 yards from the next group (1 min).
- One student draws a circle in the middle about the size of a hula hoop (1 min).
- Each student, in turn, adds a shape around the circle and the rest of the group repeats it all the way around so the pattern stays symmetrical (4 min).
- Gallery walk: groups walk quietly around and look at the other mandalas without stepping on them (1.5 min).
- Back at their own mandala, each group names it and takes one deep breath together before putting the chalk away (0.5 min).
Rules
- Work quietly and use calm voices.
- Take turns adding shapes and respect what others have drawn.
- Walk around the drawings, never on them, and watch out for kneeling classmates.
- Put all chalk back in the bucket when finished.
Variations
Easier
Students draw freely around the circle without needing to repeat patterns.
Standard
Groups create symmetrical patterns by repeating each shape around the circle.
Harder
Groups design a mandala on a class theme (shapes, sports equipment, seasons) using only three colors.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: provide a large piece of paper on a table or a chalkboard at a comfortable height.
- Students with autism or anxiety: let them work on their own smaller mandala next to the group.
- Students with low fine motor control: use thick sidewalk chalk and simple shapes like dots and lines.
Learning goals
- Express creativity through shapes and patterns.
- Cooperate with a group to complete a shared design.
- Calm the body and mind after physical activity.
Equipment for a class of 25
- sidewalk chalk sticks: 35
- chalk buckets: 7
Teacher tip
Use thick sidewalk chalk and check for no rain in the forecast if you want to admire the mandalas later. Snap a photo of each one to share with the class.
PatioLab has "Chalk Mandalas" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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