Still Lookout: Hide Closer Every Round

A lookout with planted feet searches for everyone else, who hide closer each round while keeping the lookout in sight. Students learn what gives a person away outdoors (movement, color, outline) and how to move smart.

How to play

1. Clear boundaries with cones, a lookout in a pinnie in the middle, and the key rule: you must hide where you can see the lookout (3 min).
2. Round 1: the lookout counts 30 seconds with eyes covered while everyone hides more than 30 m away; the lookout names anyone they see, and that player joins them as a helper (5 min).
3. Round 2: the cone circle moves in to 20 m and there's a new lookout (5 min).
4. Round 3 at 12 m: whenever the lookout counts with their back turned, hidden players may move to a closer hiding spot (7 min).
5. Debrief in the middle: what gave you away, and how would you watch an animal without it seeing you? (5 min).

Rules

• No hiding outside the boundaries, in closed spaces, or up on anything.
• The lookout's feet stay put; only the trunk and head turn.
• To call someone out, the lookout says something specific: where they are or what they're wearing.
• Helpers rejoin the game next round.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: be a lookout with a helper partner, or hide in an accessible spot chosen ahead of time.
• Low vision: team up with the lookout and help by listening; the partner confirms what they see.
• Restless students: be the lookout in round one to see what gives people away.

Learning goals

• Choose a hiding spot based on distance and visibility.
• Identify what makes a person visible outdoors.
• Move carefully inside safe boundaries.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 12
• pinnies: 2

Teacher tip

A schoolyard with trees, hedges, or bleachers works great. Common mistake: hiding where you can't see the lookout; remind them that rule is what makes the game interesting.

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