The Zebras Cross the River as a Herd

Children are zebras trotting across the savanna always together and crossing the river holding hands so no one is left behind. It practices moving as a group, sharing space, and helping each other.

How to play

1. The teacher explains that zebras always stay in a herd to look out for each other; we trot like zebras, lifting our knees and neighing (2 min).
2. The herd follows the lead zebra (the teacher) across the savanna: fast, slow and zigzagging, without anyone getting separated (3 min).
3. We reach the river (the space between two ropes): we cross all together holding hands in a chain, with tiny steps, and wait for the last zebra (3 min).
4. We cross again in groups of four, switching leaders and how we cross: sideways, hopping, very slowly (2 min).
5. On the other bank the herd rests: each zebra rests its head on another's shoulder, like real zebras do, and we breathe slowly (2 min).

Rules

• The herd stays together: no one gets left behind.
• In the river we hold hands without pulling.
• We follow the lead zebra.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child in a wheelchair is in the middle of the chain, and classmates match their pace.
• Visual impairment: the child always walks between two classmates holding hands, and the lead zebra calls out changes of direction.
• Autism: if the child doesn't want to hold hands, they can hold a scarf that a classmate holds too.

Learning goals

• Move as a group without separating.
• Adjust pace to classmates.
• Wait for and help those who are slower.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Ropes: 2
• Hand drum: 1

Teacher tip

Mark the river with two clearly visible ropes. The common mistake is the chain pulling forward and someone falling, so ask the leader to look back before every step.

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