By moving in synchrony or mirroring a partner, children build concentration, coordination and partner awareness while practising leading and following.
The activity also encourages cooperation and supports responsible decision-making as children carefully match pace and movement.
1. Synchronise
Ask the children to find a partner and kneel on the floor facing each other.
On your command of "go", both children begin to move together, slowly rising from their kneeling positions until they are standing as tall as they can be, stretching their arms and fingers upwards.
Explain that the movement must be synchronised, with both partners growing at the same pace.
2. Freeze and reverse
Once fully stretched, the children freeze and hold the position.
When you call "go" again, they reverse the movement together, slowly returning to their kneeling positions.
Repeat the activity so that both partners experience moving with full focus and control.
3. The 'mirror' version
Alternatively, ask partners to stand facing each other and explain that one child is the mirror and the other is the reflection.
The mirror creates slow, clear movements and the reflection copies them exactly.
4. Take turns
Swap roles so both children have a turn leading.
Encourage slow, controlled movement rather than rushing. This game works best when children are reminded to really watch their partner. Use it to reinforce the importance of awareness and cooperation.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
