Twinkle, Twinkle, Lying Stars

Lying like stars, kids open and close their hands to "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," slower and slower until the stars go out. It's a calm-down with small movements and breathing.

How to play

1. Lie on your back with arms and legs spread—we're stars (1 min).
2. The teacher sings softly while hands open and close like twinkling stars (1 min).
3. Then other parts twinkle: feet, mouth, eyes, one at a time (2 min).
4. Slower and slower until the stars go out and we stay still (1 min).
5. Light up the star bit by bit: stretch and sit up (1 min).

Rules

• Every star has its own spot in the sky.
• Twinkle slowly and quietly.
• When the star goes out, close your eyes.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users do it seated with eyes closed and hands in their lap.
• For hard-of-hearing kids, the teacher walks around and gently taps a shoulder for each change.
• Autistic children may keep eyes open and hold a stuffed animal or cushion.

Learning goals

• Relax the body after activity.
• Control small, slow movements.
• Enjoy a traditional English song.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Soft music

Teacher tip

Dim the lights if you can. Kids may know the tune from other languages—sing it in English and very slowly.

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