Right, Left, In and Out
With a ribbon tied on the right wrist, the circle steps in, steps out, and turns toward the ribbon side or the other side following a chant. It builds the concepts of in and out and an early sense of right and left.
How to play
- The teacher ties a fabric ribbon on each child's right wrist and we make a circle holding hands (1 min).
- Say the chant and do what it says: "One step in and one step out, turn the wheel and jump about!" (1 min).
- The circle walks toward the ribbon side (right), and on "other way!" it walks toward the side without the ribbon (left) (2 min).
- The teacher gives short commands: "two steps in," "one jump toward the ribbon," "three steps out," and the circle does them without letting go (1 min).
- Finish with one jump all together into the middle, then step back slowly to make the biggest circle we can (1 min).
Rules
- The ribbon tells us which side is right.
- In means toward the middle; out means backward.
- We all move together without pulling hands.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, use only in and out, and "turn toward the ribbon" without saying right or left.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, turn right and left with help from the ribbon, one action per command.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, give two-action commands ("two steps in and one jump to the left") and let some try without looking at the ribbon.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: a child in a wheelchair rolls forward and back toward the middle and turns the chair or arms toward the named side.
- Autism: always use the same chant and back up the commands with arrows drawn on the floor.
- Visual impairment: classmates on each side guide the turning direction with their hands, and the teacher names the side while tapping the child's wrist.
Learning goals
- Tell in from out in relation to the circle.
- Begin to tell right from left on your own body.
- Warm up with steps and jumps in time with the group.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Fabric ribbons: 25
Teacher tip
Tie the ribbons before going outside, with the teacher's help. If you face the children when modeling, turn your back or wear your own ribbon on your right so you don't confuse them.
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