Duck, Duck, Goose, Everyone Stays In
Seated in a circle, one child walks around tapping heads saying "duck" until they say "goose"; both run around and someone takes the open spot. No mush pot, no one out—the walker just changes each round.
How to play
- Sit in a circle. The teacher is the walker first and shows a feather-light head tap (2 min).
- Practice walking: after "goose," both walk the same way back to the gap (2 min).
- Play running: the goose chases and the walker heads for the open spot (4 min).
- Whoever is left standing becomes walker—unless they've had a turn, then they pick someone who hasn't (2 min).
- Final round with animal walks: waddling ducks, flapping geese (2 min).
Rules
- Tap heads lightly, like a feather.
- Always run the same direction, outside the circle.
- No mush pot: everyone keeps playing.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, walk or duck-waddle and the teacher walks along with the walker.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, run, and the teacher makes sure everyone gets to be a goose.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, a bigger circle and a new way of running each round (sideways, hopping).
Adaptations
- A wheelchair user can be pushed around by a buddy or be the walker in a wider circle.
- For blind or low-vision kids, tap the shoulder instead of the head and run holding a buddy's hand.
- For autistic children, say their name before tapping and allow "I'll watch this round."
Learning goals
- React quickly to a word.
- Respect turns and running direction.
- Enjoy chasing without anyone being out.
Teacher tip
Leave wide spaces between seated kids so runners don't trip. Keep a mental tally so everyone gets to be a goose.
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