Where Did the Beanbag Fall Asleep?
In pairs, one child lies down with eyes closed and the other gently lays a "sleeping" beanbag on part of their body; without moving or peeking, the child lying down says where they feel it. It works awareness of their own body during a calm moment.
How to play
- In pairs, one lies on their back on the mat and closes their eyes (1 min).
- The partner very slowly places a beanbag on a body part: knee, hand, shoulder, tummy (2 min).
- The child lying down whispers where the beanbag fell asleep, without looking (1 min).
- Switch roles (1 min).
- Sit together, say thank you and put the beanbags in the basket (1 min).
Rules
- I place the beanbag very slowly, never drop it.
- The child lying down doesn't move or peek.
- We speak in whispers.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, the teacher is the partner and pointing to the spot counts as an answer.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, in pairs, naming the body part.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, two beanbags at once on two different parts, saying right or left.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: do it seated, with the beanbag on parts the child can feel well.
- Autism: they can keep their eyes open or start as the one placing the beanbag.
- Hearing loss: the child lying down answers by pointing to the spot.
Learning goals
- Sense and locate a body part without seeing it.
- Look after a partner with gentle touches.
- Calm down together as a pair.
Equipment for a class of 25
- beanbags: 15
- floor mats: 25
Teacher tip
Demonstrate with one child first and exaggerate how slowly you place the beanbag. Keep away from the face and neck, and tell them clearly which body parts are okay.
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