The Chasing Robot and Its Off Button
The teacher is a robot who chases children with robot steps until its batteries run out and it freezes; then the kids creep up very carefully to press its button, knowing it could switch back on any moment. It practices stopping and starting, being brave and handling the thrill.
How to play
- The teacher shows the button (hand on tummy) and how the robot moves: stiff, saying “Beep, beep” (1 min).
- The robot chases at a walk, and children walk away like robots too (2 min).
- The robot runs out of batteries, “Bzzz...”, and stops; kids tiptoe up and someone presses the button; the robot suddenly switches on and everyone runs to the home wall (4 min).
- If the robot tags someone, they become a little robot helper, moving stiffly beside the teacher, and next round they're a kid again (3 min).
- A child becomes the chasing robot and the teacher joins the runners (1 min).
- All the robots power down bit by bit: head first, then arms, and finally legs, until we're sitting (1 min).
Rules
- I sneak up on the robot slowly and quietly.
- When the robot turns on, I run to the home wall.
- At the home wall I'm safe.
- If the robot tags me, I'm a little robot for one round.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, the robot is slow to start and chases very slowly; kids may approach together holding hands.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, the robot switches on when the button is pressed and chases at a normal pace.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, the robot may switch on before the button is pressed if someone makes noise, and the home wall is farther away.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the home wall is close to the child or they get a head start; they can also press a drum “button” to switch the robot on.
- Autism: warn that the robot makes a loud noise when it turns on, or agree on a soft sound instead.
- Hearing impairment: the robot flashes “lights,” opening and closing its hands, before it moves.
Learning goals
- Go from stillness to running quickly.
- Manage nerves and the excitement of a scare.
- Respect the safe zone.
Teacher tip
The fun is in the approach: stretch out the wait with “Bzzz” and sideways looks. Mark the home wall clearly and make sure the path back is free of obstacles.
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