Ten Swings and Switch

On the park swings, each child swings while the group sings out a count of ten swings, and the children waiting behind the line copy the swinging motion with their bodies. It works on rhythm, taking turns and handling waiting.

How to play

1. Sit facing the swings while the teacher draws a chalk waiting line well out of the swings' reach (2 min).
2. The teacher explains the rules: sit on the seat, two hands on the chains, nobody walks in front of or behind a swing (2 min).
3. As many children as there are swings get on; the teacher or another adult gives a gentle push and the kids on the line sing-count 'One, two, three... ten, switch!' (4 min).
4. While they wait, children on the line stand and swing like swings: arms forward, arms back, in time with the count (3 min).
5. Keep taking turns until everyone has had at least one swing (3 min).
6. To finish, everyone sits on the line and sways slower and slower until we stop (1 min).

Rules

• We wait behind the chalk line.
• We never walk in front of or behind a moving swing.
• When the count reaches ten, we drag our feet to stop and get off.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: use an adaptive or bucket swing if there is one, with an adult close by; if not, rock in a blanket held by two adults.
• Autism: preview with a picture of the line and the number ten; let them go first or last if that helps them wait.
• Hearing loss: count on raised fingers too, where everyone can see.

Learning goals

• Respect turns and the waiting area at the swings.
• Match body swinging to the rhythm of a count.
• Wait calmly.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Chalk: 1

Teacher tip

Check the swings and the rubber surface beforehand. One adult always stays by the swings while the rest of the group waits on the line with another adult. The usual slip is someone running in front of a swing to grab a spot: practice the line before you start.

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