Click! Helmet On Right
Children learn the routine of putting on a helmet before getting on any vehicle, then gently move the head and neck with it on. It builds body care and gentle neck and shoulder mobility.
How to play
- Sitting in a circle with their helmet in front of them, the teacher teaches a made-up chant: "Helmet on my head, forehead covered tight, click under my chin, now my head's all right" (1 min).
- Everyone puts on their helmet while saying the chant; the teacher and friends help with the click (1 min).
- Check with a finger: one finger fits between the strap and the chin, no more, no less (1 min).
- With the helmet on, move the head slowly: nod "yes", shake "no", look up at the sky and down at the ground, and shrug the shoulders (1 min).
- Stand up and walk around wearing the helmet, like cyclists about to ride (1 min).
Rules
- The helmet covers the forehead, not the back of the head.
- We always hear the click.
- We move our head slowly.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, the adult fastens the buckle and the child puts the helmet on.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, they try the buckle on their own and help each other in pairs.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, each child puts on their helmet and then checks a friend's with the finger test.
Adaptations
- Less fine-motor skill: use magnetic-buckle helmets, or the adult fastens while the child holds the strap.
- Autism or touch sensitivity: let the child see and touch the helmet first and wear it just a few seconds at the start.
- Hearing impairment: do the chant with gestures (hand on forehead, fingers snapping the click) and check visually.
Learning goals
- Put on a helmet correctly and more independently.
- Move the neck and shoulders with control.
- See the helmet as a way to take care of our body.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Helmets: 25
Teacher tip
Check helmet sizes ahead of time and keep them adjusted and labeled with names. The typical mistake is the helmet tipped back with the forehead exposed; the chant fixes it.
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