Rescue by Name: Ask for Help Out Loud

A freeze tag game where you can only be rescued by the person you call by name with a clear request. It warms up at a good intensity and makes asking for help feel normal.

How to play

1. Jog inside the coned area, greeting everyone you pass by name (2 min).
2. Explain and practice the phrase: “Name, can you help me?” while looking at the person (1 min).
3. Game with four taggers: if you're tagged, freeze and ask a specific person for help; only that person can free you with a high five (3 min).
4. Switch taggers and add a rule: you can't ask the same person twice in a row (3 min).
5. Quick share: who was it hard to ask for help, and why? (1 min).

Rules

• Tag with an open hand on the back.
• If you weren't called, you can't free that person.
• Ask in a clear voice while making eye contact; yelling doesn't count.
• Whoever is called decides whether to go, but if they go, they rescue gently.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: they can ask by raising a hand and pointing to the person while making eye contact.
• Students new to the group: play with name tags or tape on everyone's chest.
• Students with a leg injury: act as a fixed “rescue station” that frozen players can call to get a high five.

Learning goals

• Raise the heart rate progressively.
• Ask for help in a clear, direct and respectful way.
• Connect with classmates beyond their usual friends.

Equipment for a class of 25

• pinnies: 4
• cones: 8

Teacher tip

Watch for anyone who never gets called, and in the second round ask everyone to call at least one person they don't usually talk to. Common mistake: yelling for help without looking at anyone.

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