Today I'm the Teacher: I Explain the Rule

Taking turns, a child plays teacher: they pick a card with a simple rule, explain it to classmates with words and a demo, and everyone plays by it. It builds understanding and explaining rules, taking turns leading and moving to instructions.

How to play

1. The teacher shows five rule cards: 'when the drum stops, freeze,' 'walk only on tiptoes,' 'two beats means sit down,' 'inside a hoop, hop on one foot,' 'no one touches anyone' (2 min).
2. The teacher explains the first card as an example: shows it, says it out loud and demonstrates; everyone plays for a minute with the drum (2 min).
3. A volunteer comes up: picks a card, explains it with the teacher's help ('What do we have to do?') and demonstrates; everyone plays (3 min).
4. Three or four more children take turns as teacher of the day; each new rule adds to the last if the group can handle it (5 min).
5. Sit down and the 'teachers' share what was hardest to explain (2 min).

Rules

• When the teacher of the day talks, we listen.
• We play by the rule they explained, even if it's not the one I'd pick.
• The teacher of the day plays too.
• If it wasn't my turn today, it will be another day.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: they play teacher of the day like anyone else, and rules can be followed seated (arm statues).
• Autism: they can explain with the card and a gesture, without needing to speak in front of everyone.
• Hearing impairment: pair the drum with visible gestures and keep the cards on display.

Learning goals

• Understand a game rule and explain it to others.
• Take turns leading the game.
• Move following a classmate's instructions.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Hand drum: 1
• Picture rule cards: 5
• Hoops: 8

Teacher tip

Keep a record of who has been teacher of the day so turns spread across the week. The common snag is a child explaining very quietly: stand beside them and repeat the rule out loud if needed.

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