The Wand That Balances Itself
Children are wizard apprentices and their wand (a piece of pool noodle) has to learn to balance on its own on different body parts. They practice focus, fine control of movement and balancing objects.
How to play
- Each apprentice gets a wand and we say the spell with the teacher: "Wand, wand, stay still, please" (1 min).
- Hold the wand lying flat on an open palm and walk slowly around the room (2 min).
- Try other spots: the back of the hand, the forearm, the shoulder, the head (3 min).
- Standing wand: balance it upright on your palm and follow it with your hand so it doesn't fall (2 min).
- Wizard challenges: walk, crouch or sit down with the wand balanced on the body part each child chooses (3 min).
- Lay the wands down to sleep in a row and take a wizard bow (1 min).
Rules
- Every apprentice takes care of their own wand.
- Wands are never for touching people.
- If it falls, I pick it up and say the spell again.
- I move slowly so my wand doesn't slip away.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, wand lying flat on the palm and forearm, standing still or walking very slowly.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, several body parts while walking around the room.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, upright wand on the palm and switching hands without dropping it.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: balance the wand on a hand, the armrest or a knee from the wheelchair.
- Less coordination: use a shorter, thicker wand, or hold it with two fingers at first.
- Visual impairment: wrap textured tape around the middle of the wand so the child can feel the balance point.
Learning goals
- Keep an object balanced on different body parts.
- Adjust movement with focus and calm.
- Set small challenges and meet them.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Pool noodle pieces: 25
Teacher tip
Cut the noodles about 16 inches long: they're soft, light and harmless. The typical mistake is rushing so it "won't fall"; explain that the wand stays put when the wizard moves very slowly.
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