10 Second Objects

Child development / Drama games / 10 second objects

10 Second Objects is a fast-paced group game that encourages imagination, teamwork and quick thinking.

Children work together in small groups to create different objects using only their bodies, with just ten seconds to form each shape.

This game builds creativity, spatial awareness and cooperation while keeping the energy high and the fun flowing.

How to play

1. Get into groups

Split the children into small groups or two halves. Ideally, 3-5 children per group.

2. Set the challenge

Call out an object (e.g. car, ship or birthday cake). Each group must form that object using their bodies shapes in just ten seconds.

3. Countdown to create

As they form their shape, count down from 10 to 0 out loud to keep the energy high and focused.

4. Show and guess

Once the time is up, everyone freezes in position. Celebrate their creativity by asking the groups to guess what the others have made.

5. Invent your own

Let the children take turns choosing an object for others to create. This builds ownership and confidence.

What it teaches

Imaginative thinking - transforming abstract ideas into physical shapes
Teamwork - planning and working together
Spatial awareness - using space and body positioning
Quick decision-making - responding to time-limited challenges
Confidence - presenting their creations to others

Variations to try

Timed tableaux: Add a theme (e.g. "under the sea" or "in the kitchen") and ask children to create objects within that world
Frozen picture show: Groups create a three-part "story" in frozen images
Mystery makers: One group creates an object and others try to guess what it is

Principal's notes

Children adore this game and I love how it challenges their creativity while building brilliant team skills. It's amazing to see the different interpretations each group comes up with.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.