Ha-Ha Laughter Chain

Students lie on mats in a zigzag, each head resting near a classmate's stomach, and take turns saying "ha," adding one more each time, without laughing. This classic laughter game sets off real giggles that release tension, and it ends with calm breathing.

How to play

1. Lay mats in a row and have students lie face up in a zigzag so each head rests next to the next person's stomach, in groups of 8 to 10 (1 minute).
2. The first student says "ha," the second "ha, ha," the third "ha, ha, ha," and so on to the end of the chain.
3. If anyone really laughs, the group starts over from "ha"; the goal is to reach the end without laughing (3 minutes).
4. When done, everyone stops talking and feels a partner's stomach rise and fall with each breath (1 minute).
5. Take three slow breaths together, roll to one side, and sit up slowly (1 minute).

Rules

• Heads rest beside the stomach, on the mat, without putting weight on anyone.
• Anyone who prefers no contact can place their head next to a classmate's hip instead.
• No tickling or poking anyone to make them laugh.
• Roll to your side before getting up.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student joins from their wheelchair at the start or end of the chain and says their turn.
• Autism or touch sensitivity: the student plays the seated version or sits at the end of the chain without resting their head.
• Hearing impairment: signal each turn with a tap on the shoulder and have students hold up one finger per "ha."

Learning goals

• Release built-up tension through shared laughter.
• Notice their own breathing and a partner's.
• Build trust and a positive class climate.

Equipment for a class of 25

• mats: 12

Teacher tip

Ask ahead of time who would rather avoid contact and set up groups accordingly. Contagious laughter is the point, so don't penalize it: what matters is ending calm.

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