Steam Train or Speed Train
Two very different trains run on the yard's tracks: the old steam train, slow and heavy, and the speed train, fast and light; the rhythm sticks tell which one is passing. It works matching speed and stepping style to a given beat.
How to play
- Mark a track loop around the yard with ropes. Listen to the two beats: slow sticks “choo… choo… choo…” for the steam train and fast sticks “ta-ta-ta-ta” for the speed train (2 min).
- We're steam trains: walk the tracks with big heavy steps, arms turning like wheels, puffing steam (2 min).
- We're speed trains: jog fast and light on tiptoes, arms close to the body like a train slicing through the air (2 min).
- The beat changes without warning and we switch trains instantly; when the sticks stop, we pull into a station and freeze (3 min).
- Two-car trains: in pairs holding shoulders, follow the beat without letting go (2 min).
- The last steam train rolls very slowly into the train yard and shuts down: walk slower and slower until you sit (1 min).
Rules
- Listen to the sticks before moving.
- Stay on the tracks, all going the same way.
- When the sticks stop, brake at the station.
- The speed train passes on the outside, no touching.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, skip the tracks: walk freely around the yard, with slow, announced beat changes.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, use tracks and unannounced beat changes.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, a child plays the sticks and sets the beats; add a third train, the freight train, at a medium beat with side steps.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the child keeps the beat on the sticks as station master, or rides the tracks in the wheelchair with a partner.
- Hearing impairment: the teacher pairs the sticks with very visible gestures (slow or fast arms).
- Autism: if noise is bothersome, use soft wooden sticks instead of a drum and preview the ending.
Learning goals
- Match travel speed to a beat.
- Tell slow and fast beats apart.
- Switch ways of moving instantly.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Rhythm sticks: 1
- Ropes: 6
Teacher tip
Make the two beats very different; if they sound alike, everyone ends up running. Tell them the steam train is the one grandparents rode and the speed train is today's: it helps give each one character.
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