Giants and Ants on the Wall
With the room dimmed and a spotlight aimed at a wall, children discover that their shadow grows into a giant as they move toward the light and shrinks into an ant as they move toward the wall. It works on near and far and controlled movement.
How to play
- Set the spotlight on the floor aimed at the wall, tape a “do not cross” line about three feet from the light and lower the blinds halfway (2 min).
- Everyone by the wall: our shadows are small. Take tiny steps toward the light and watch them grow (3 min).
- “Giants!”: walk to the line with huge stomping steps and your shadow fills the wall; “Ants!”: tiptoe-run back to the wall (3 min).
- The teacher shows a size with their hands (big, medium, small) and children find the spot where their shadow is that size (3 min).
- Story: the giant looks for the ants; when the giant comes near, the ants hide by curling up against the wall (2 min).
- Turn on the lights and talk: where were we giants? (1 min).
Rules
- Nobody crosses the spotlight line.
- Giants take big steps but don’t push.
- Look at the wall, not the light.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, just giants and ants, with the teacher moving with the group from one spot to the other.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, add the medium size and the giant story.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, in pairs: one shows a size with their hands and the other finds the exact spot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the wheelchair moves forward and back with help, and theirs is the biggest giant shadow.
- Visual impairment: keep just enough light to get around; a buddy says “now you’re a giant” and guides them by the hand.
- Autism or fear of big shadows: start as an ant and move closer when ready.
Learning goals
- Understand near and far using the light as a reference.
- Move with different kinds of steps.
- Observe how shadow size changes.
Equipment for a class of 25
- LED spotlight: 1
- Masking tape: 1
Teacher tip
The wall should be clear and light-colored. With lots of kids the shadows blend together: it’s fun, but if you want them clearer, play in two rounds and let the other group be the audience calling “Giant!” or “Ant!”
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