Wolf in the Woods, Are You Ready?

Traditional singing chase game in which the group circles the wolf's den using a different locomotor skill each verse, until the wolf comes out to chase. Students practice locomotor skills and reaction time while enjoying a classic folk game.

How to play

1. Use cones to mark the wolf's den, a 10-foot circle in the middle, and two safe zones about 40 feet away on each side. One student in a pinnie is the wolf.
2. Everyone circles the den chanting 'Let's play in the woods while the wolf is away. Wolf, are you ready?' Before each verse, call the skill: tiptoeing, hopping, frog jumps or galloping.
3. The wolf answers with a getting-dressed action ('I'm putting on my socks!') and acts it out. The group chants again with a new skill.
4. After three or four verses, the wolf may shout 'Yes, and here I come!' Everyone runs to a safe zone while the wolf tries to tag.
5. Tagged students put on a pinnie and become helper wolves next round; with four wolves, start over. Play 6-8 rounds of about 90 seconds.

Rules

• The wolf stays in the den until the full line is said.
• During the chant, stay at least one step from the den.
• No tagging in safe zones; walk into them.
• Tag with a touch on the shoulder, never grab clothing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: be the wolf and tag with a pool noodle, or use a closer safe zone.
• Deaf or hard of hearing: pair the 'here I come' line with a gesture, like raising both arms.
• Fitness level: very fast runners start closer to the den.

Learning goals

• Move in different ways while following the rhythm of a chant.
• React quickly to a verbal signal.
• Learn and enjoy a traditional singing game.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 12
• pinnies: 4

Teacher tip

Teach the chant in the classroom first so the singing is clear. Wolves tend to come out too early; agree on at least three answers before 'here I come.'

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