With the added excitement of guessing who's under the blanket, Hibernating Hedgehogs is a delightful mix of movement, suspense and imagination.
This game is ideal for calming a group down, especially after high-energy activities and introduces the concept of hibernation through playful role-play.
1. Set the scene
Let the children know that we're going to transport ourselves to a quiet, magical forest full of animals. Ask if they can name any animals that would live in this forest.
2. Introduce hibernation
Ask the group, "Do you know what hibernation means?" Then, explain that some animals, like hedgehogs, sleep through the winter.
3. Move like forest animals
Play gentle music and ask the children to move around the space as different woodland creatures, such as foxes, squirrels, owls and rabbits.
4. Call out "Hibernating Hedgehogs!"
When you shout these magic words, everyone must curl into a tiny ball on the floor and fall asleep.
5. Choose a hedgehog to hide
While the children sleep, gently drape a blanket over a child while the others remain still.
6. Wake up the forest
Call: "Wake up, sleepy hedgehogs!" as all rise except the hidden hedgehog. Ask the group to guess who is still snoozing under the blanket!
6. Repeat with new children
You can play several rounds to ensure every child has a chance to be the sleepy hedgehog.
This gentle, magical game captures children's imagination while helping them develop stillness and self-control. It?s the perfect winding-down activity after a busy day inside or outside the classroom.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
