The Baton Says Run
The teacher is a silent orchestra conductor who uses a cardboard baton to show, without words, when to run, stop or sit down. It practices reacting to visual signals and keeping eyes alert.
How to play
- Teach the baton's three signals: up means run in place super fast, down touching the floor means sit, and sideways means stand still (1 min).
- Try the signals slowly, everyone facing the teacher, who doesn't say a single word (1 min).
- The teacher changes the baton faster and faster and the musicians answer with their bodies (2 min).
- Add the baton that draws circles: children jog around the room, and as soon as the baton stops, they stop too (2 min).
- To finish, the baton sinks super slowly and everyone sits down with it, ready for the next game (1 min).
Rules
- I watch the baton the whole time, since the conductor doesn't talk.
- If I make a mistake, I laugh and keep going.
- I run in place without leaving my spot.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, use only two signals (up is run, down is sit) and exaggerate the gesture.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, use all three signals and change them with a varied rhythm.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, a child takes a turn as conductor, and the teacher adds a new signal: baton lying on the floor means lie down.
Adaptations
- Hearing impairment: this game is perfect since every signal is visual; place the child up front facing the teacher.
- Visual impairment: the buddy next to them gives an agreed tap on the shoulder, or the teacher adds one short word to each gesture.
- Limited mobility: in a wheelchair, running is moving the arms fast, sitting is lowering the head, and still is hands on knees.
Learning goals
- Respond quickly to visual signals.
- Switch actions and positions instantly.
- Keep visual attention on a leader.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Cardboard tube: 1
Teacher tip
Paint the tip of the baton a bright color so everyone can see it. Arrange children in open rows facing you so nobody blocks anyone else.
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