The Gift-Giving Feet Circle
Sitting in a circle with legs stretched out, children pass beanbags around using only their feet, as if giving each other gifts. It works foot coordination and paying attention to the friend next to them.
How to play
- Sitting in a circle, grab a beanbag with both feet and lift it a little (2 min).
- The teacher starts passing a beanbag with their feet to the right and it travels around the circle (3 min).
- With music on, add a second and third beanbag at the same time (3 min).
- When the music stops, anyone with a beanbag at their feet names a gift they'd give a friend (2 min).
- Change direction and pass to the left (2 min).
Rules
- Feet only, hands resting on the floor behind me.
- I pass slowly, no kicking.
- If it falls, I pick it up with my feet.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, one beanbag only, and sliding it over with one foot is fine.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, two or three beanbags at once, gripping with both feet.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, switch direction whenever the drum sounds.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the child in a wheelchair receives the beanbag in their lap and passes it with an elbow or closed hand.
- Less foot dexterity: they can take off their shoes to feel the beanbag better.
- Autism: they sit next to the teacher and know ahead of time who they pass to.
Learning goals
- Pick up and release an object with the feet.
- Pay attention to both the giver and the receiver.
- Enjoy a game where the whole circle works together.
Equipment for a class of 25
- beanbags: 6
- music
Teacher tip
Works best barefoot on the classroom floor or on mats. Start with a small circle so feet easily reach the next friend.
PatioLab has "The Gift-Giving Feet Circle" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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