This unique tongue twister game is a fun vocal warm-up where children practise clear speaking by saying tongue twisters aloud and matching them with expressive body poses.
The children move to music and then freeze once the music stops, before saying a short and fun tongue twister while striking a related physical pose.
1. Start with a mumble
Begin by saying something quietly and unclearly to the group- just a muddle of sounds.
Ask: "Could you understand what I said?"
"No? That's because my diction wasn't very clear!"
Explain what diction means - speaking clearly so others can hear and understand.
2. Ask for help
Tell the children: "I need your help to practise clear speaking!"
3. Walk and freeze
Let the children walk around the space. When the music plays, they move freely (no bumping!).
When the music stops, they must freeze and get ready to say a tongue twister very clearly, with a big matching pose.
4. Rehearse with "Tiny Toy"
Before you start the music, practise together with the words: "Tiny Toy!"
Ask them to say it slowly and clearly, then strike a pose like a tiny toy (e.g. curled up, stiff doll arms, toy soldier march).
5. Start the game
Play music. When it stops, call out a short two-word tongue twister. They say it aloud in their clearest voice and make a matching physical pose.
6. Tongue twister list
You can use any of these or make up your own:
Repeat several rounds to build confidence and vocal clarity.
This is one of my favourite games for improving speech and building confidence. It's silly, physical and totally engaging and it really helps children become clear, expressive speakers.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
