Lizard Partners Chase Each Other

In pairs, one lizard wears a scarf tail and the other chases to grab it; once it's grabbed, the chaser puts the tail on and now the partner chases. It practices dodging, quick turns and taking turns with the same partner.

How to play

1. Each pair gets a scarf; one wears it as a tail and they stand one step apart (1 min).
2. On the signal, the one without a tail counts to three and chases their partner; after grabbing it, they put it on and switch (3 min).
3. Round in a smaller space (half the playground) to practice turning close to others (2 min).
4. Crawling lizard round: partners chase each other on hands and knees (2 min).
5. The teacher switches partners for one last short round (1 min).
6. Lizards lie on their tummies in the sun and wiggle their tails slowly (1 min).

Rules

• I only chase my partner.
• I count to three before chasing.
• When I grab the tail, I put it on and we switch.
• If I bump another lizard, I stop and say sorry.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: pairs with a buddy who gives a head start; the tail hangs from the armrest and the child can grab by tapping with a pool noodle.
• Visual impairment: the partner has a jingle bell on their tail and they play in a quiet area of the playground.
• Autism: the partner is always the same trusted classmate, at least in the first round.

Learning goals

• Turn and dodge in a small space.
• Take turns chasing and running away.
• Coordinate with a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Scarves: 25

Teacher tip

Pair children of similar speed so there are lots of switches and no one is always chasing. If space is tight, change running to fast walking.

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