Little Birds Fly Back to the Nest

Half the group holds the parachute like a nest while the other half flies around the yard as little birds; when the drum sounds, the nest rises and the birds fly in to shelter underneath. Then they switch roles. It builds free running, reacting to a signal and caring for classmates.

How to play

1. The teacher splits the group in two: the nest children hold the parachute and the little birds stand around it (2 min).
2. The birds fly around the yard with arms spread while the nest rocks gently (2 min).
3. The drum sounds: the nest rises high and the birds fly in and crouch underneath; the nest comes down slowly to shoulder height (3 min).
4. Switch roles: the birds hold the nest and the nest children go out to fly (3 min).
5. Last time all together: the teacher and two adults hold the nest and all the birds fly in to sleep (2 min).

Rules

• We fly with arms spread without bumping.
• When the drum sounds, fly back to the nest.
• The nest comes down slowly so the birds don't get scared.
• Inside the nest, we crouch.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a child in a wheelchair can be part of the nest or fly pushed by an adult; the nest lifts higher so they fit underneath.
• Autism: give a heads-up before each drum beat and let the child choose which role to start with.
• Hearing impairment: along with the drum, the nest rises very high as a visual signal.

Learning goals

• Run freely without bumping.
• React quickly to a sound signal.
• Take care of classmates when lowering the nest.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Rainbow parachute: 1
• Hand drum: 1

Teacher tip

The nest should never come all the way down with birds inside, at most to the holders' shoulder height. Clearly mark how far the birds can fly.

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