Make a weather movement game

This is a small-space movement game with no winner to keep track of. Your child helps invent the rules, and the weather can change whenever somebody turns over a card. Seated movements work just as well as standing ones.

What you need

• Four large pieces of card or folded paper
• Crayons
• A clear, non-slip patch of floor
• A chair for anyone who prefers to play sitting down

Before you begin

Move furniture edges and trailing cables out of the play area. An adult stays nearby, especially with younger children. Keep every movement comfortable: no climbing, spinning quickly or jumping from furniture. Agree on a clear pause signal, such as holding up both hands.

Make the forecast

1. Draw a sun on the first card, rain on the second, wind on the third and a cloud on the fourth. Your child can choose the colours.
2. Invent one movement for each card. Sunshine might mean stretching fingers overhead; rain could be gentle finger taps on knees.
3. Try swaying arms for wind and making a rounded cloud shape with hands. Adapt any movement so everyone can join comfortably.
4. Put the cards face down. Turn one over, name the weather and do its movement together for a few breaths.
5. Return the card and let the next person choose. After several turns, invite your child to become the forecaster and hold up the cards.

Change the game

For a quieter version, perform every movement with hands only. Older children can arrange three cards in a row and lead a tiny weather story. There is no need to test memory or increase the speed.

Finish with the cloud card and a comfortable rest. Ask which movement felt nicest. Stack the cards in an envelope, return the chair and leave the floor clear for the next activity.

Illustrative photo for this preview activity. Photo: Kellen Riggin / Unsplash.