Whispering Sticks

Sitting in a circle, children tap their rhythm sticks softer and softer, then rub them like the wind, and finally lie down and let them go quiet. It relaxes muscle tension as the sound fades.

How to play

1. Sitting in a circle, tap the sticks together at a calm, steady pace (1 min).
2. Each round gets quieter: from giant taps to ant taps (1 min).
3. Rub the sticks instead of tapping: they sound like wind in the trees (1 min).
4. Tap only on the floor, very slowly, lowering your body until you're lying down (1 min).
5. Set the sticks aside and listen to the silence with eyes closed (1 min).

Rules

• Quieter and quieter, without rushing ahead.
• Resting sticks stay on the floor, hands off.
• In the silence we don't talk, we just listen.

Variations

Adaptations

• Less coordination: one stick tapping gently on the floor.
• Hearing impairment: the teacher shows the volume with hands, from wide apart to almost touching.
• Limited mobility: stay sitting or in the wheelchair, leaning back and letting the arms go loose at the end.

Learning goals

• Lower energy levels gradually.
• Connect soft sound with a relaxed body.
• Enjoy group silence.

Equipment for a class of 25

• rhythm sticks: 25

Teacher tip

Start at a medium volume, not loud, or it's hard to bring down. Someone usually bangs during the silence; smile at them and start again softly, no scolding.

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