Pop Goes the Weasel
Crouched like weasels, kids creep around while the traditional "Pop Goes the Weasel" tune plays and leap high on "pop!" It works on jumping, waiting and rhythm.
How to play
- Crouch into a ball—we're weasels in our burrow (2 min).
- The teacher hums the tune; on "pop!" jump up with arms high (2 min).
- Creep around crouched during the song and jump on "pop!" (3 min).
- Partners: one makes a burrow with hoop arms, the other pops out on "pop!"; switch (3 min).
- End with smaller and smaller pops until we fall asleep in the burrow (2 min).
Rules
- Wait for "pop!" to jump.
- Land with soft knees.
- Creep without bumping anyone.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, stay in place and jump on "pop!"
Standard
For 4-year-olds, creep around crouched and jump.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, the teacher sneaks the "pop!" in at unexpected times.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair users curl up small and shoot arms up on "pop!"
- For hard-of-hearing kids, use a big visible clap or flick the lights on "pop!"
- Kids who struggle to wait get to shout "pop!" for a round.
Learning goals
- Jump powerfully and land softly.
- Hold back until the signal.
- Follow the structure of a traditional song.
Teacher tip
No need to sing every word—humming plus a big "pop!" works. Remind soft knees on every landing.
PatioLab has "Pop Goes the Weasel" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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