Guides Through the Pillow Forest
One child closes their eyes and a partner leads them by the hand through a forest of cushions, hoops, and ropes on the floor, warning them about each obstacle. It practices moving without sight, trust, and the responsibility of looking after someone.
How to play
- The teacher sets up the forest on the floor (cushions to step on, hoops to step into, ropes to step over) and walks it holding a child's hand, explaining each step (2 min).
- In pairs, both with eyes open and holding hands, they walk the forest to get to know it (2 min).
- The walker closes their eyes; the guide leads them by the hand saying “big step,” “foot in the hoop,” “stop” (3 min).
- Switch roles with the same partner (3 min).
- Switch partners: the guide now leads with a hand on the shoulder and fewer words (3 min).
- Out of the forest: everyone opens their eyes and shows with a gesture whether they liked guiding or being guided (1 min).
Rules
- The guide never lets go of their friend's hand.
- We walk very slowly.
- I warn my friend before they step on anything.
- If I want to open my eyes, I can.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, eyes always open, holding hands, and the guide says “Here, here!” while pointing.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, eyes closed for a few steps and then open, with a short path.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, eyes closed for the whole path and the guide uses only a hand on the shoulder and words.
Adaptations
- Visual impairment: the child's experience is valuable; they can be a guide with teacher support or explain how they like to be guided.
- Autism: allow eyes open or looking down instead of closing them.
- Limited mobility: set the forest in a wide area; instead of stepping on cushions, the child goes around them in the wheelchair or walker.
Learning goals
- Move with confidence without using sight.
- Give clear directions.
- Take responsibility for someone else's safety.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Cushions: 8
- Hoops: 6
- Ropes: 4
Teacher tip
No blindfolds: at this age, closed eyes with the freedom to open them is better. Keep obstacles low and flat; guides tend to rush while watching others, so ask them to “watch your friend's feet.”
PatioLab has "Guides Through the Pillow Forest" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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