By pairing words with actions, children practise self-expression, memory and performance presence.
1. Set up the room
Ask the children to stand in a circle.
Alternatively, set the game up as you would for You Have Been Watching, or arrange the children as if taking bows at the end of a show.
2. Think of describing words
Ask each child to think of a word that describes them.
Encourage them to use alliteration by choosing a word that begins with the same letter as their name, though this is not essential.
3. Present to the group
One at a time, each child steps forward, says their name and descriptive word, and adds a simple dance move or action.
4. Repeat around the circle
The rest of the group repeats the name, word and action together. Continue until every child has had a turn.
Model strong examples so children feel comfortable being bold. Celebrate creativity and effort rather than perfection. This game works particularly well as a warm-up for bows or introductions.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
