Tree with Roots, Trunk and Branches

Children build tree pose piece by piece: first the roots (feet firmly down), then the trunk (body straight) and last the branches (arms) with a scarf as a leaf. They work on one-foot balance step by step.

How to play

1. Sitting in a circle, the teacher holds up a scarf: «This is our tree's leaf», and each child takes one (1 min).
2. Roots: standing, press the feet into the floor as if roots are growing and wiggle the toes (2 min).
3. Trunk: grow tall, shoulders down, and rest the sole of one foot on the other ankle or calf (3 min).
4. Branches: raise the arms with the scarf in one hand and wave it slowly like a leaf in the breeze; switch feet (3 min).
5. A strong wind blows, the leaf falls, we pick it up and plant it in the ground, then sit by our tree (3 min).

Rules

• First roots, then trunk, then branches.
• If I fall, I plant my roots again and start over.
• My foot rests on my leg, never on my knee.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: do tree seated: feet firm (roots), back straight (trunk), arms with the scarf (branches).
• Less balance: do tree next to a wall, one hand on it.
• Hearing impairment: the teacher touches the body part in play (feet, belly, arms) before each step.

Learning goals

• Balance on one foot.
• Build a pose piece by piece.
• Become aware of body alignment.

Equipment for a class of 25

• pañuelos: 25

Teacher tip

Looking at one fixed spot helps a lot: put a picture at eye level and say «the tree watches the bird». Remind them the foot never goes on the knee.

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