* To talk about directions - forwards, backwards etc - and how vehicles like diggers move.
* To improve self-control of body movements.
* To react to instructions quickly.
* To have fun.
How to play
* Draw a small circle for each child on the floor or on the ground outside to represent their 'home'.
* Ask children to stand on their own 'home' and follow the instructions.
* Walking forwards - children walk forwards from their 'home'.
* Walking backwards - children walk backwards to stand on their 'home'.
* Walking around and round - children walk in a circle around their 'home'.
* Stand, with one foot on the ground - children stand on one foot on their 'home' trying not to wobble.
* Count to five aloud while the children stand on one foot. The first child to fall over during this time loses a point.
* Check who has not lost points at the end of several games.
Tips
* Change walking to skipping and then hopping.
* Later, add more suspense to the game by delaying saying 'Stand'.
* Increase the time standing on one foot to ten.
* Encourage children to practice by themselves in the playground, or at home.
* Praise individual children as their self-control improves.
For more games, see Acker Backa BOO! - Games to Say and Play From Around the World by Opal Dunn (Frances Lincoln, 10.99)
(C) Opal Dunn. The author disclaims responsibility for any adverse effects resulting directly or indirectly from the game outlined.
