Don't Rush
In short: a game of careful listening — children follow the leader’s commands only if they start with the words “please” or “group”. It suits the gym, the yard or the classroom.
What it develops
- listening attention and understanding instructions;
- self-control — not reacting straight away;
- left and right, and moving on command.
Getting ready
- Age: from about 6.
- Players: from 5–6 children to a whole class.
- Place: gym, yard or classroom.
- Materials: none.
How to play
Author: Andriana Tsankova
The players stand in a line. The leader stands 7–8 metres in front of them and gives different commands, which the players must carry out only if they begin with the words "Please" or "Group". For example: "Please turn right!", "Group, left!"
Players who make a mistake must immediately take one step forward. After a time agreed in advance, the game stops. The winner is the player who is still in their starting place in the line. The player who has taken the most steps forward comes last.
Tips for the leader
- Example commands: “Please crouch!”, “Group, jump!”, “Turn left!” (no “please” — not followed).
- Mix commands with and without the key word so the game stays interesting.
- Speak clearly and calmly; do not hurry, so everyone can hear.
Variants
- Only one key word (“please”) for younger children.
- Commands with pictures or gestures as well as words.
- Instead of a step forward, the child sits down and joins the next round.
Including children with special educational needs
- Show the game once with gestures and examples before you start.
- Give the commands slowly, with a pause between them.
- For children who still mix up left and right, put a bracelet or sticker on the right hand.
- Instead of “out”, everyone who makes a mistake becomes the leader’s helper.
More games for movement and attention are in Fun and Education.