Lying Down in a Chain, One by One

One at a time, children lie down slowly on their backs next to the previous child and take their hand until the class forms one long chain, then a silent hand squeeze travels along it. It works on calming down, slow controlled movement and a sense of belonging.

How to play

1. Standing in a line, take a deep breath and shake out hands and feet (1 min).
2. The first child lies on their back very slowly; the next lies down beside them and takes their hand (2 min).
3. Keep going until the whole class is a chain lying down, holding hands (1 min).
4. With eyes closed, the teacher sends a gentle hand squeeze down the chain (1 min).
5. Let go, roll onto our side and get up slowly, like waking up (1 min).

Rules

• I lie down slowly, no flopping.
• I hold hands gently.
• The squeeze is passed without talking.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: join the chain sitting or from the wheelchair, holding hands.
• Autism or touch sensitivity: hold a scarf between their hand and the classmate's instead of holding hands.
• Visual impairment: the classmate says something before taking their hand.

Learning goals

• Lower the heart rate with slow movement.
• Control the body when lying down and getting up.
• Feel part of the group.

Teacher tip

If the floor is cold, do it indoors or on mats. The squeeze usually gets lost halfway: celebrate anyway and send it again from the other end.

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