The Rope Curls Up to Sleep
Sitting with their rope stretched out in front of them, kids coil it very slowly into a snail shell, breathing with each turn, and then curl up themselves as if falling asleep. Kids calm down, breathe slowly and practice fine motor skills.
How to play
- With soft music, everyone sits with their rope stretched out on the floor in front of them (1 min).
- Starting at one end, we coil the rope on the floor like a snail, breathing in on each turn and out slowly (2 min).
- When the rope is a snail shell, we whisper good night to it (1 min).
- We curl up too, on our side, like the rope, and breathe calmly (1 min).
- We stretch out slowly, like a rope uncoiling, and carry our snail shell to the box (1 min).
Rules
- I coil slowly, no hurry.
- I breathe in on each turn and breathe out gently.
- I talk in whispers.
- I carry my snail to the box without undoing it.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, squishing the rope into a ball between their hands is fine; the teacher counts the breaths.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, a floor snail, breathing with each turn.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, after coiling it, they uncoil it with eyes closed by pulling the end very slowly.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the child coils the rope on their wheelchair tray or on their lap.
- Less hand skill: use a short, thick rope, or coil it around a paper towel tube.
- Autism: let the child know it's the end of the session and allow them to coil their rope in their quiet corner.
Learning goals
- Calm down with slow breaths.
- Practice fine motor skills by coiling.
- Put materials away carefully.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Jump ropes: 25
- Music
Teacher tip
It's a perfect closer because it tidies up the ropes on its own. Make the first snail yourself while narrating "one turn, breathe in..." and lower your voice each time.
PatioLab has "The Rope Curls Up to Sleep" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.