Synchronized Swimmers on Dry Land

In small groups, children act like a synchronized swimming team: they wait together, start at the same time and do the same moves at once. It works on coordinating with others and the idea of “at the same time.”

How to play

1. Explain that we're synchronized swimmers who do everything at once. Try three moves: front-crawl arms, frog legs (crouch and stretch) and a spin (2 min).
2. Everyone in a circle with the teacher: “one, two, three” and do each move together, watching each other (2 min).
3. Groups of 4 or 5 in a line: the first child is captain and the others copy at the same time (3 min).
4. Each group makes up a routine of two or three moves in order and rehearses starting together on the count (3 min).
5. Show time: each group performs to music while the others cheer like at the pool (3 min).
6. Out of the pool: dry off with a pretend towel in slow motion (1 min).

Rules

• I start when the captain counts three.
• I watch my teammates so we move together.
• During the show, the others watch and clap.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the routine uses arms and trunk, and the whole group adapts it so everyone does the same.
• Hearing impairment: the captain counts down on fingers.
• Autism: let them perform in the group with no audience if being watched is overwhelming.

Learning goals

• Start moving at the same time as the group.
• Coordinate your moves with classmates.
• Create and repeat a short routine.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Music

Teacher tip

Mix ages or skill levels in each group and allow rehearsal time. Kids often go at their own pace, so tell them to keep eyes on the captain and say the count out loud.

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