The Snake That Tickles Your Back

In pairs, one child lies on their tummy while the other slowly slides a soft rope over their back, arms and legs, like a tickly snake; then they switch. Kids relax, notice their body and practice gentle care for a partner.

How to play

1. We put on calm music; in pairs, one child lies face down on a mat with arms stretched out (1 min).
2. The other lays the rope on their partner's back and drags it very slowly toward the feet, like a snake (2 min).
3. The snake strolls down one arm and then the other, never up to the head or neck (1 min).
4. We switch roles (1 min).
5. Both lie on their backs, place the rope on their tummy and feel it rise and fall with their breathing (1 min).

Rules

• The snake goes on backs, arms and legs, never on the head or neck.
• I move the rope very slowly.
• If my friend wants to stop, I stop.
• We talk softly, like the music.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child gets the snake stroll while seated, on arms and legs.
• Tactile sensitivity or autism: ask first and let the child choose: over clothes, arms only, or do it to a stuffed animal.
• Hearing impairment: agree on a hand signal for "stop" before starting.

Learning goals

• Relax after activity.
• Feel different parts of the body.
• Treat a partner with care and respect their limits.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Jump ropes: 13
• Mats: 13
• Music

Teacher tip

Use soft cotton ropes, not plastic. Always ask "Can the snake go for a walk on you?" before starting; it's a great chance to talk about consent.

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