The Ball Rolls to Sleep in Its Crib

Sitting on the floor with soft music, children roll their ball very slowly to a shoe box lying on its side, which is its crib, and tuck it in for sleep. The pace slows down with one last gentle, caring aiming movement.

How to play

1. Everyone sets their crib box on its side two steps away and sits with legs apart (1 min).
2. We rock the ball in our arms like a baby and softly sing "Rock-a-Bye Baby" or hum a lullaby (1 min).
3. We roll it very slowly to the crib; if it misses, we pick it up without hurrying and try again (2 min).
4. When the ball is in the crib, we cover it with our hands and say good night (1 min).
5. We lie down too, close our eyes, and listen to the music (1 min).

Rules

• I roll so slowly the ball almost falls asleep on the way.
• I whisper so I don't wake anyone.
• I take care of my ball like a baby.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: roll the ball across a table into a box set at the edge.
• Hearing impairment: the sleep signal is hands together against the cheek.
• Autism: they can use a favorite stuffed animal or ball and a box they already know.

Learning goals

• Lower energy at the end of the session.
• Roll a ball very gently.
• Show care and affection through play.

Equipment for a class of 25

• medium balls: 25
• shoe boxes: 25
• calm music

Teacher tip

In Spain, kids often hum the traditional lullaby "A la nanita, nana"; any public-domain lullaby works. Set up the boxes before class. If someone gets excited and rolls hard, remind them their baby will wake up.

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