One Tap Turn, Two Taps Down
Children jog around the space and respond to two drum rules: one tap means turn around, two taps mean touch the floor with their hands. It builds reaction to sound signals and keeping two rules in mind at once.
How to play
- Jog freely around the space looking for open spots while the drum plays softly (1 min).
- First rule: on one loud tap, turn around and jog the other way (1 min).
- Second rule: on two taps, touch the floor with both hands and keep jogging (1 min).
- Mix the two rules without warning, slowly at first and then more often (2 min).
- A volunteer plays the drum while the teacher jogs with the group (1 min).
Rules
- One tap: I turn around.
- Two taps: hands on the floor.
- I look for open space and don't chase anyone.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, just the one-tap rule plus stopping when the drum goes quiet.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, both rules, with long pauses between taps.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, add a third rule: three taps means sit down for a second and get back up.
Adaptations
- Hearing loss: pair each signal with a big visible gesture (one hand up, two hands up).
- Limited mobility: in a wheelchair, one tap means turning the chair and two taps means touching the knees.
- Autism: preview each rule with a picture card taped to the wall.
Learning goals
- React quickly to a sound signal.
- Remember and follow two different rules.
- Move around without bumping, looking for open space.
Equipment for a class of 25
- hand drum: 1
Teacher tip
Leave several seconds between taps; if you rush them, the rules get mixed up and kids get frustrated. Make the difference between one tap and two really obvious.
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