Feather Wake-Up Partners

In pairs, one child sleeps like a doll and the other brushes a body part with a feather; that part "wakes up" and moves. Kids build body awareness through touch, notice how their body feels, and learn to take care of a partner.

How to play

1. Pairs spread around the gym. One lies face up with eyes closed: the sleeping doll. The other holds a feather (1 min).
2. The teacher demonstrates with a child: brushes the hand and says "The hand wakes up!" The child moves only the hand, then lets it sleep again (1 min).
3. With soft music, the waker brushes different parts: hands, feet, knees, tummy, nose. The sleeper moves each part they feel (4 min).
4. Switch roles when the music stops (4 min).
5. Last round: the waker brushes a part and the sleeper, eyes still closed, says its name out loud (2 min).

Rules

• The feather brushes gently, never on eyes or inside noses or ears.
• The sleeper moves only the part they feel.
• If it tickles too much, choose another part.
• Treat your partner's body with care.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the doll can sit in the wheelchair and the partner brushes parts they can move.
• Autism: if touch is uncomfortable, the child brushes themselves or uses a scarf instead of a feather.
• Different skill levels: big parts for younger kids; small parts like a finger or ear for skilled kids.

Learning goals

• Recognize body parts through touch.
• Move only the part they feel.
• Take care of a partner during a touch game.

Equipment for a class of 25

• feathers: 10
• soft music

Teacher tip

Keep one feather per pair in a basket. Dim the lights and lower your voice: this calm activity works well right after an active game.

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