Sleepy Wink Circle
Sitting in a circle, a secret "Sandman" winks at classmates, who yawn and slowly lie down to sleep, while a detective tries to figure out who the Sandman is. It's a gentle take on Wink Murder that requires sharp observation and calm movement, and leaves the group lying down and relaxed at the end of class.
How to play
- Seat the class in 2 circles of 12-13, legs crossed, with space behind each student to lie down (1 min).
- In each circle, a detective steps away and closes their eyes; the teacher taps one student on the back, who secretly becomes the Sandman.
- The detective stands in the middle; the Sandman sneakily winks at anyone, and whoever gets winked at silently counts to 3, yawns and slowly lies down on their back with eyes closed.
- The detective gets three guesses to find the Sandman before everyone falls asleep; sleeping students keep breathing slowly and stay quiet.
- Once the Sandman is caught or half the circle is asleep, switch roles: the Sandman becomes the detective and the teacher picks a new Sandman (6 min, about 3 rounds per circle).
- In the last round, let the Sandman put the whole circle to sleep, and everyone stays lying down in silence for one minute (1 min).
Rules
- Sleeping students don't talk or help the detective.
- Lie down slowly without flopping, and check there's space behind you.
- The Sandman may only wink, with no other gestures.
- The detective accuses respectfully: "I think you're the Sandman."
Variations
Easier
The detective gets five guesses and the Sandman must wink slowly.
Standard
The detective gets three guesses to find the Sandman.
Harder
There are two secret Sandmen in the circle and the detective must find both.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: instead of lying down, the student "falls asleep" by resting their head on their arms over their knees or a table.
- Can't wink: the Sandman may quickly stick out their tongue or close both eyes for a second.
- Visual impairment: replace the wink with a gentle hand squeeze while the circle holds hands.
Learning goals
- Observe carefully and draw conclusions from small clues.
- Respect the game's rules and roles.
- Reach a relaxed, lying-down state at the end of class.
Teacher tip
Check beforehand who can wink and offer alternatives. Use a softer and softer voice between rounds so the circle gradually settles down.
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