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Hops That Fall Asleep

Start with little hops to the tambourine, and as it gets slower, the hops get smaller until they turn into gentle swaying and we end up lying down. Children move gradually from activity to calm.

PhaseCool-down

Duration6 min

Ages3–6

SpaceAny space

EquipmentHand drum

IntensityLow

How to play

Little hops in place following the tambourine (1 min).
The tambourine slows down: the hops become tiptoe bounces without leaving the floor (1 min).
Now sway from foot to foot like a little boat (1 min).
Sit down slowly, then lie on your back (1 min).
Breathe with a hand on your tummy and listen to the last, very soft tap (2 min).

Rules

My body follows the tambourine.
Slower and smaller each time.
When I lie down, I can close my eyes if I want.
Now we talk without words.

Variations

Easier

At age 3, the teacher does each move with them, and they may lie down with their stuffed animal.

Standard

At age 4, they follow the tambourine on their own.

Harder

At age 5, at the end they feel their heartbeat with a hand on their chest and say if it's fast or slow.

Adaptations

Limited mobility: follow the same process with the arms, from fast to slow, from the wheelchair.
Hearing impairment: the teacher shows the speed with a hand (fast, slow, still).
Autism: the child can lie on their own mat or under a blanket if it helps.