The Name Mail Carrier

Name cards for the whole class are spread on the floor. First, each child finds their own and drops it in a mailbox; then children become mail carriers and deliver friends' names to their owners. They practice recognizing their own and classmates' written names and moving with a goal.

How to play

1. In a circle, show a few cards and ask whose they are; each child says how they know it's theirs (first letter, how long it is) (2 min).
2. Spread the cards face up; everyone walks around looking for theirs and drops it in a mailbox (box) when found (3 min).
3. Empty the mailboxes into the carriers' bags; each carrier takes out a card and delivers it by hand, jogging gently (4 min).
4. Whoever receives their name says thank you and becomes a carrier (3 min).
5. Wrap-up: holding their card, each child does a move that starts like their name and everyone copies it (2 min).

Rules

• I carry cards in my hand without crumpling them.
• If I don't know whose it is, I ask or look at the photo.
• I say thank you to the mail carrier.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child is the postmaster who receives cards at the mailbox and says whose each one is.
• Visual impairment: the card has a raised first letter or one of their own objects attached.
• Autism: keep their card the same color as always so it's easy to find.

Learning goals

• Recognize their own written name.
• Recognize some classmates' written names.
• Move with a goal and help others.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Name cards: 25
• Boxes: 4
• Tote bags: 4

Teacher tip

Use the same name cards you already have in the classroom so the game reinforces your daily routine. Start with a small photo in one corner and fade it out over the year.

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