Story Stretch: Build a Cool-Down for Little Kids

In groups, students turn four stretches into a short story to lead a cool-down for elementary kids, then test it on another group. Everyone stretches and learns to explain stretching to a younger age group.

How to play

1. Groups of 4 pick four familiar stretches (calf, supported quad, back, and shoulder) and give each a part in a made-up story: the growing tree, the cat arching its back (3 min).
2. Rehearse the whole story: hold each stretch for 15–20 seconds with a slow count (3 min).
3. Two groups pair up: one narrates and the other stretches as if they were seven years old; then switch (3 min).
4. Each group shares which stretch was hardest to explain to little kids and how they solved it (1 min).

Rules

• Stretch with no bouncing and no pain.
• For standing stretches, use the wall or a partner for support.
• Stories are original, no movie or TV characters.
• Whoever plays the little kid doesn't exaggerate or make fun.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the story includes seated versions of each stretch.
• Hard of hearing: the narrator uses gestures and demonstrates every pose.
• Leg injury: stretches the rest of the body and takes the lead narrator role.

Learning goals

• Cool down with correct stretching.
• Adapt an explanation for younger students.
• Create material for an elementary school event.

Teacher tip

Collect the best stories on one sheet; they'll be the script for the real event. Common mistake: the story is so long nobody holds the stretch; one sentence per pose is plenty.

More activities like this

More cool-downs for Middle School