When it’s too cold or raining outside, teachers often have the job of playing entertainer to their students who are trapped indoors. For some teachers this will set off a panic attack as they picture their classroom being destroyed by their young students. There is always the option of finding a movie or cartoon for the students to watch, but this will not stimulate their minds the way running around and playing outside will. Young students use recess time to get the blood flowing back to their brains, enabling them to stay awake the remainder of the day. Here are some fun and stimulating activities for your students to do next time the weather keeps them in.
1. Play Simon Says
Simon Says will keep young students entertained, especially if you can come up with some silly commands for them to follow. It also has the added benefit of the students begin confined to certain movements. When students “get out,” have them sit down either in place or up against a wall. This will allow them to have a break while not getting hurt by the other students still playing the game.
2. Ring Toss
Let your kids play with this Soff-Ring Toss game. You can even make a game out of it if you have several sets. Separate the kids into a few small groups and allow them to see who can get all the rings on the pole first. Since they are soft they won’t cause as much damage as the harder version might. This will also stimulate hand and eye coordination.
3. Building Blocks
Building blocks are a great way to let your students be creative while still honing fine motor skills. These Childcraft corrugated blocks are light weight so if a student is building a tower and it falls over on them, it won’t hurt them.
4. Music
Find a kid-friendly radio station and get the kids moving by encouraging them to dance. You can even join in and get them to follow along with your dance moves. Or better yet, download some songs that have directions in them on what to do like Cha Cha Slide. Not only will they be moving and having fun, they will also have to listen and follow directions.
5. Read a Book
If you want a quieter time in your classroom during recess, make sure to have a collection of books for your students to listen to. These should be exciting books that do not focus as much on teaching them, but keep them entertained and stimulate their imagination.
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