Leaks in the Classroom Roof
With so much rain, the classroom roof springs pretend leaks: the teacher says where it's dripping and children rush over with their bowls to catch the drops (drum taps), then carry the “full” bowl very carefully to the sink. They work on balance while carrying an object, finding their way around the room and responding to a signal.
How to play
- Each child takes a bowl while the teacher explains: “The roof is leaking! When I say where, bring your bucket to catch the water” (2 min).
- The teacher says “Leak by the whiteboard!”; walk there, kneel and hold the bowl with both hands while the drum taps out the drops (2 min).
- Count the drops out loud; at five the bowl is full, so carry it very slowly to the rug (the sink) without spilling (2 min).
- The bowl gets fuller every time: carry it with one hand, then on top of your head holding it, then on tiptoe (2 min).
- Lots of leaks at once: the teacher names two spots and the group splits up so no part of the room gets wet (2 min).
- The rain stops: empty the last bowl, turn it upside down to dry and sit down (2 min).
Rules
- Walk to the leak; never run.
- Carry a full bowl slowly so the water doesn't spill.
- Several kids fit under each leak, so make room.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, one leak at a time and carry the bowl with both hands.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, change how you carry the bowl and add double leaks.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, put a big paper ball in the bowl and carry it without letting it fall out.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair users: carry the bowl on their lap, and the teacher names leaks in open areas.
- Hearing impairment: the teacher points to the leak and counts the drops by holding up fingers.
- Visual impairment: the teacher taps the drum from the leak's location so the child can follow the sound.
Learning goals
- Travel while keeping an object balanced.
- Find a place in the classroom from a verbal cue.
- Share space cooperatively.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Plastic bowls: 25
- Hand drum: 1
Teacher tip
Name spots everyone knows (whiteboard, door, coat hooks, window) and check that the path is clear. The game really takes off if you play a worried teacher: “Oh no, the library corner is getting wet!”
PatioLab has "Leaks in the Classroom Roof" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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