The Sponge Drying in the Shade

Lying in the shade, kids imagine they're a soaked sponge that slowly dries out: heavy and full of water at first, then light and soft. With a real sponge on their tummy, they notice their breathing and relax the whole body.

How to play

1. We lie on our backs in the shade with calm music and rest the squeezed-out sponge on our tummy (1 min).
2. We watch the sponge rise as we breathe in and sink as we breathe out, like a little boat (1 min).
3. The teacher says we're soaked sponges: arms and legs are very heavy and sink into the ground (1 min).
4. Little by little we dry out: first the feet, then legs, tummy, arms, and face become light and soft (1 min).
5. The teacher walks by and touches each child's hand with a dry sponge: that child is dry and can sit up (1 min).
6. Sitting up, we squeeze the sponge one last time, put it in the basket, and put on our hats (1 min).

Rules

• I lie in my own spot, not touching anyone.
• The sponge stays on my tummy.
• I listen to the teacher's voice with eyes closed if I want.
• I sit up only when the teacher touches my hand.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: do it seated or in the wheelchair, with the sponge on the lap and hands resting on top.
• Autism: allow eyes open and give a heads-up before touching the hand, or let them touch the teacher's sponge instead.
• Hearing impairment: the teacher points to each drying body part where everyone can see.

Learning goals

• Relax the body one part at a time.
• Notice their own breathing.
• End the session calmly in the shade.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Large sponges: 25
• Calm music

Teacher tip

Choose real shade, and if the ground is damp, lay down mats or towels. If someone giggles, don't stop: just lower your voice more. Use the moment to have everyone drink water afterward.

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