The Sleepy Foot
In this story game, one foot sometimes "falls asleep" and we have to move using only the other, hopping or holding on; when the tambourine wakes it up, we jump with both feet. One-foot hopping is introduced step by step and in a playful way.
How to play
- Lie down while the teacher tells how one foot fell asleep: wiggle it slowly to wake it up (2 min).
- Standing, lift the sleepy foot and balance on the other while counting to three (3 min).
- With one foot asleep, do little one-foot hops in place, touching the wall if needed (3 min).
- The tambourine rings and the foot wakes up: jump around with both feet; then the other foot falls asleep (4 min).
- Both feet fall asleep: sit down and give them a massage (2 min).
Rules
- The sleepy foot doesn't touch the floor.
- If it's hard, I lean on the wall or a friend.
- When the tambourine rings, I jump with both feet.
- I try with both feet—first one, then the other.
Variations
Easier
At age 3, just hold the foot up and jump with both feet when it wakes up.
Standard
At age 4, one or two one-foot hops while touching the wall.
Harder
At age 5, one-foot hops without support, moving forward a little.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: sitting, lift a "sleepy" leg or arm and move the other one.
- Less balance: always next to the wall or holding an adult's hand.
- Hearing impairment: pair the tambourine with a waking-up gesture (opening the hands).
Learning goals
- Begin hopping on one foot.
- Balance on one foot.
- Work both sides of the body.
Equipment for a class of 25
- tambourine: 1
Teacher tip
Hopping is demanding at this age: keep sets very short and always switch feet. It's normal for 3-year-olds to only manage balancing; celebrate it just the same.
PatioLab has "The Sleepy Foot" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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