Rolling With My Stuffy

Each child rolls sideways along the mats hugging a stuffed animal to their tummy, to teach it to roll without letting it slip away. It practices rolling with arms tucked in and caring for something special.

How to play

1. Each child picks a stuffed animal and tells it that today it's going to learn to roll (1 min).
2. Lying on the back, hug the stuffy to the tummy and rock side to side (2 min).
3. Roll sideways along the row of mats without letting go, and at the end ask the stuffy if it liked it (3 min).
4. Now roll, stop on the tummy, give the stuffy a kiss or a hug, and keep going (2 min).
5. Lay the stuffy on your tummy and breathe to make it go up and down (2 min).

Rules

• We don't let go of the stuffy when rolling.
• Roll slowly so it doesn't get dizzy.
• Wait until your friend finishes their row.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: an adult helps the roll while the child holds the stuffy, or the child rolls the stuffy across their lap.
• Autism: use the child's own comfort object if they bring one from home.
• Less skilled children: a big, soft stuffy that's easier to hug.

Learning goals

• Roll sideways with arms tucked in.
• Control the body while holding an object.
• Approach rolling calmly and with confidence.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Mats: 8
• Stuffed animals: 25

Teacher tip

This one is great for kids who are scared to roll, since the stuffy makes them feel safe. Let families know if you'd like children to bring one from home.

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