Musical Hoops: Nobody Left Out

While the music plays, children dance around the yard between hoops; when it stops, everyone finds a hoop, and even though there are fewer hoops each time, nobody is out because they share. Children practice reacting to silence and cooperating.

How to play

1. Spread hoops on the ground, one for every two children; the teacher explains: music means dance, silence means get in a hoop (2 min).
2. First round: dance without stepping on the hoops, and when the music stops, get inside one like a little house (2 min).
3. The teacher removes a couple of hoops each time and children must share: two, three, or four friends in the same hoop (3 min).
4. Change the dance each round: fast music, little hops; slow music, move like astronauts (3 min).
5. Last round with very few hoops: find ways for everyone to have a foot or a hand inside (2 min).

Rules

• When the music plays, dance outside the hoops.
• When it stops, everyone into a hoop, no pushing.
• If someone has no hoop, make room for them.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: place the wheelchair user's hoop beside them and classmates come to that hoop.
• Hearing impairment: also show the silence by dropping your arms or switching off a light.
• Autism: allow a fixed hoop of their own that only one or two familiar classmates join.

Learning goals

• React quickly when the music stops.
• Move to different musical tempos.
• Share space and make sure no one is left out.

Equipment for a class of 25

• aros: 15
• música

Teacher tip

Make it clear from the start that nobody loses: the challenge is to fit everyone. Space the hoops well apart so no one trips while dancing.

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