Parachute Igloo and Merry-Go-Round

The class circles with the parachute to music like a merry-go-round and, on a signal, builds an igloo with everyone sitting inside the canopy. Students practice rhythm, moving in sync as a group, and the trust needed to move together without bumping.

How to play

1. Students hold the parachute with one hand and walk in a circle to music, changing direction when the teacher claps (3 min).
2. Add movements to the beat: side steps, small hops, tiptoes, gallops. Keep the canopy tight the whole time (4 min).
3. Igloo: on three, everyone lifts the canopy, takes two steps in, pulls it down behind their backs, and sits on the edge (3 min).
4. Put it together: the merry-go-round turns with the music, and when it stops, the class builds the igloo in under 5 seconds (5 min).
5. To finish, count quietly to ten inside the igloo, then everyone comes out at once, lifting the canopy (3 min).

Rules

• Walk or hop to the beat, never run.
• Keep holding the parachute while it turns.
• Inside the igloo, stay seated and still without pulling the fabric.
• If someone trips, the whole group stops right away.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: keep the beat with a tambourine, or circle with a partner pushing the wheelchair.
• Hearing impairment: signal changes by holding up a colored pinnie.
• Fitness level: students who need it walk instead of galloping or hopping.

Learning goals

• Match movement to the music and to the group.
• Work together to make a group shape quickly.
• Respond to visual and sound signals.

Equipment for a class of 25

• play parachute: 1
• music: 1

Teacher tip

Pick songs with a clear, moderate beat. If some students pull in and others pull out during the igloo, have everyone count the two steps out loud.

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