Ribbons Drawing in the Air

Holding a ribbon wand in one hand, children draw circles, waves and figure eights in the air, first with one hand and then the other, and finally pass the ribbon from hand to hand across the body. It works on laterality, range of motion and expressive movement to music.

How to play

1. Each child takes a ribbon and finds a spot with room all around, like a pinwheel that doesn't touch anyone (1 min).
2. Using either hand, draw in the air whatever the teacher calls out: circles, waves, snakes along the floor (3 min).
3. Switch the ribbon to the other hand and draw the same things (2 min).
4. Draw a sideways eight in front of the tummy, with one hand and then the other (2 min).
5. Dance to the music, passing the ribbon from one hand to the other across the front of the body (3 min).
6. The ribbon gets tired and floats slowly to the ground like a leaf (1 min).

Rules

• Everyone has their own ribbon and their own space.
• The ribbon draws in the air, not in anyone's face.
• If the ribbon gets tangled, stop and untangle it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: it works seated, with a shorter ribbon.
• Visual impairment: put a bell on the wand and guide the shapes with the child's hand at first.
• Less coordination: use a big scarf instead of a ribbon; it's lighter and tangles less.

Learning goals

• Move with big motions using one hand and then the other.
• Draw shapes that cross the midline.
• Express themselves through movement to music.

Equipment for a class of 25

• ribbon wands: 25
• music

Teacher tip

You can make ribbons from crepe paper or fabric tied to a short, blunt wooden stick. Leave plenty of space between kids; mark spots with hoops for a big group.

More main activities for Elementary