Pass the Squeeze

Child development / Drama games / Pass the squeeze

Pass the Squeeze is a simple teamwork and focus game where children practise noticing and passing on a physical signal.

By concentrating on touch, rhythm and timing, they build coordination, awareness and non-verbal communication skills.

Child and drama teacher playing a movement game

How to play

1. Stand together

Stand side by side with your child and hold hands.

2. Introduce the squeeze

Explain that one person will begin by gently squeezing the other person's hand.

3. Pass the signal

If more people are playing, pass the squeeze from one person to the next.

If it is just the two of you, return the squeeze back and forth.

4. Continue smoothly

Try to pass the squeeze clearly and without speaking.

5. Add rhythm

Once your child is confident, introduce a simple rhythm using two or three squeezes.

6. Copy the timing

Challenge your child to return the same rhythm as accurately as possible.

What it teaches

Concentration and focus
Teamwork and cooperation
Listening through touch
Rhythm and timing
Awareness of others
Coordination

Variations to try

Take turns - Swap who starts the squeeze each round.
Rhythm challenge - Try different squeeze patterns and copy them back.
Memory pattern - Build a longer sequence of squeezes for your child to remember.

Principal's notes

Children often become highly focused because they must pay close attention to physical signals rather than verbal instructions. Encourage gentle squeezes and smooth rhythm rather than speed alone.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.