By focusing on a shared goal, children are encouraged to step forward confidently and take risks without overthinking being watched.
1. Line up
Ask the children to stand in two parallel lines facing each other.
Number each line from 1 upwards. Make the teams as even as possible. If needed, join in yourself to balance the numbers.
2. Call out a number
Stand in the middle of the two teams holding a flag or an alternative object such as a ribbon, tea towel or hat.
Explain that you will call out a number to challenge one person from each team. For example: "Challenge 3s."
The number called from each team prepares to step forward.
Follow the challenge call with a task, such as:
3. Grab the flag
Once the task is completed, both players race to grab the flag. The first person to grab it scores a point for their team.
Continue calling different numbers until every child has had a turn.
Start with simple challenges and build up in complexity and creativity. At the end, total the points to determine the winning team.
This game works particularly well for children who are nervous about performing solo, as the focus is on winning the challenge rather than being watched. Keep the energy high and the pace moving to prevent overthinking. Praise effort and bravery as much as speed.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
