This is one of my favourite games to play with young children during free play, outdoor play or circle time. It can also be used as part of rest and relaxation routine.
As children we loved to play this game during my birthday parties. It was always amazing to have an older child who was quite strict with the rules.
The rules are pretty simple. The educator says “Dead Fish” and all children must try to do their best impressions of a dead fish. Usually they lie down on the floor and present not to move. The educator walks around the circle looking for movement. If a child moves (and they do, of course!), they they have to perform a task, like jumping, stretching or anything similar. The best “dead fish” can become a leader or choose the next animal children will pretend to be. It is really an open-ended game which is awesome for this age group. Try it and tell how did you go!
