5 Seconds to Touch

Perform 7-12 child
Child development / Drama games / Five seconds to touch

5 Seconds to Touch is a fast-paced, energetic game where children respond quickly to short challenges in a fun, active way.

With only a few seconds to complete each task, they practise listening, focus, coordination and quick thinking.

Perform 7-12 child

How to play

1. Spread out

Ask the children to spread out around the space and explain that they will have just five or ten seconds to complete each challenge.

2. Explain the rules

Tell the group that you will call out a task and count down clearly, giving them only a few seconds to act.

3. Give a challenge

Call out a task, such as:

  • "Five seconds to touch something red."
  • "Five seconds to get to the other side of the room."
  • "Five seconds to get into groups of four."
  • "Five seconds to do five-star jumps."

4. Respond immediately

Encourage children to listen carefully and move quickly, keeping their energy and focus high.

5. Keep it moving

Change tasks regularly to maintain pace and excitement, repeating the countdown for each new challenge.

What it teaches

  • Listening
  • Quick reactions
  • Decision-making
  • Teamwork
  • Physical awareness

Variations to try

  • Change the time limit to make it easier or harder.
  • Add quieter challenges, such as finding a shape or freezing in a pose.
  • Ask children to invent tasks for the group.


Principal's notes

This fast-paced game is excellent for sharpening listening and reaction skills. The short time limit encourages children to think quickly and act decisively while staying aware of others in the space.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.

Lucy Quick - Principal of Perform


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