Windshield Wipers in the Rain

Holding a scarf, children are windshield wipers sweeping the rain from side to side in front of their faces, following the scarf with their eyes. It works on crossing the midline with the arm and the eyes.

How to play

1. Sitting like we're in a car, everyone takes a scarf and the teacher says it's starting to rain (1 min).
2. With one hand, the scarf sweeps side to side in front of the face while the eyes follow it (1 min).
3. Switch the scarf to the other hand and wipe with that one (1 min).
4. Heavy rain: wipe faster; light rain: wipe slowly (1 min).
5. Holding the scarf with both hands, do one last sweep and park the car (1 min).

Rules

• The scarf goes from one side of your face to the other.
• Your eyes follow the scarf.
• Every car stays in its own spot.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: it's a seated game, so it works as is; adjust how wide the sweep is.
• Autism: let the child use a favorite-color scarf and keep the rain gentle the whole time.
• Visual impairment: use a high-contrast scarf or one with a bell sewn on.

Learning goals

• Cross the midline with the arm.
• Track an object with the eyes from side to side.
• Use each hand on its own and both together.

Equipment for a class of 25

• fabric scarves: 25

Teacher tip

Make rain sounds with your mouth and change the pace with your voice. Lots of kids turn their head instead of moving their eyes: fine at 3, but at 5 ask for a "statue-still head."

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