States of Tension

Child in drama class
Child development / Drama games / States of tension

This physical exploration helps children understand how different levels of tension affect the way the body moves.

The focus is on energy and tension rather than emotion, giving children a clear, practical tool they can later combine with character and storytelling.

Children in drama class

How to play

1. Set up the game

Explain to the children that they are going to explore different states of tension in the body. Make it clear that this is not about acting out emotions, but about how much tension or energy the body is holding.

2. Explain and explore the states of tension

State 1: Completely relaxed with no tension at all. The body is so floppy that if someone nudged you, you would fall over. You can just about stay standing.

State 2: You have just enough energy to move. Take very small, slow steps, dragging your feet with floppy arms and legs.

State 3: You now have enough energy to meander through a park. Your walk is slow and steady as you gently take in your surroundings.

State 4: Neutral. This is a natural walking pace, not too fast and not too slow, with no emotion shown.

State 5: Walking to the bus stop. Your bus stop is ten minutes away and the bus arrives in ten minutes, so you walk with purpose at a steady pace.

State 6: You are now late for the bus. Tension has increased and you begin to jog. If someone gets in your way, your body reacts sharply.

State 7: The bus is pulling away and you are about to miss it. You will be late for work and might get fired. You must run with full tension and urgency.

Walk the children through each state slowly, giving time to explore before moving on.

3. Combine tension with emotions

Once the children have explored all seven states, explain that tension levels can be combined with emotions.

Ask the children to repeat some of the tension states while adding emotions such as:

  • Happy
  • Sad
  • Confused
  • Fearful

4. Set up improv scenes

Finally, set up short improvisation scenes. At any moment, call out a new tension number and ask the children to instantly adjust their physicality while staying in character.

What it teaches

  • Physical awareness and control
  • Understanding tension and energy
  • Adaptability and responsiveness
  • Character movement skills
  • Focus and listening


Principal's notes

Remind the children that tension and emotion are separate tools. Encourage clear physical changes between states so the difference is visible. Avoid rushing through the levels, as exploration time is key.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.

Lucy Quick - Principal of Perform


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