Lovely childcare

[Childcare] Let’s all play! A collection of recommended ideas for group play and games

20 years of experience as a nursery teacher / kindergarten teacherhiyoko sensei
I’m Hiyoko-sensei, a former nursery school teacher from Hyogo Prefecture. Ever since I was five, my dream was to become a childcare worker, and before I knew it, 20 years had passed since I achieved that dream. Through singing and playing with the children, I kept working with the spirit of someone in their twenties, even as I increasingly felt my physical limits year by year (haha). From here on, I’d like to share helpful information carefully and thoughtfully, drawing on my on-site experience.
Nursery Teacher Mom Writertsukada moe
After working for five years at an after-school childcare club and three years at a nursery school, I began working as a freelance writer. I’m a mother of two children. Inspired by playing the flute in the school wind ensemble in elementary school, I joined a jazz club at university. I’ve also incorporated ukulele and piano performance into childcare. Playing, laughing, feeling sad, feeling frustrated—through all kinds of experiences, I want children to grow.

Group play is essential in early childhood care, isn’t it?

But it’s easy to end up doing the same games over and over, and children can get bored.

So we’ve gathered a collection of group play ideas for teachers who have that concern.

We’ve included a variety of movement-based games that can be enjoyed both outdoors and indoors, so you can choose according to the day’s activity setting.

Another fun aspect of group play is that the level of excitement varies depending on the class’s age and the children’s personalities.

Try choosing while thinking, “Which games will suit my class?”

Let’s spend a fun time with the children.

[Childcare] Let’s all play together! Recommended ideas for group play and games (31–40)

Abuku-tatta

Nozomi Farm Academy 2013 Sora Class: Abukutatta (Latest Version)

Abuku-tatta

“Abukutatta” is a group game that children can enjoy.

First, choose one child to be the bean and have them squat in the middle.

The other children hold hands to form a circle and walk around while singing “Abukutatta.” Please look up the lyrics.

When the circling part ends, they continue singing, “Go home and close the cupboard,” adding gestures.

The bean child then taps “ton ton ton” as a signal.

When asked, “What’s that sound?” they answer with a sound.

If they say, “It’s the ghost’s sound,” that’s the cue to start a chase! Everyone runs to avoid being caught by the bean child.

With simple rules, it’s a fun game that strengthens bonds among children.

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Copycat Animals

[Have Fun with Music] Try imitating animal movements with “Copycat Animals”

Copycat Animals

Here’s a copycat animal game that kids of different ages can enjoy while moving their bodies.

Along with a piano melody, the teacher says the name of an animal and imitates it.

The children enjoy moving like the animal in their own way, at a level that suits their age.

You might even see the younger children copying the movements of the older ones.

It could also be fun to ask the children what animals they can think of as you go along.

This copycat animal play is a great way to get kids moving indoors—give it a try!

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Mimic Rhythm Play

A handy game for meeting time: “Copycat Rhythm”

Mimic Rhythm Play

Here’s a follow-the-leader rhythm activity you can enjoy while copying movements.

As you hum the rhythm, the teacher demonstrates by clapping hands and gently tapping their own head or arms.

After watching the teacher’s example, the children play along with the rhythm by copying the movements they’ve learned.

During this time, the teacher should also move together with the children to serve as a model.

Younger children can participate within their abilities.

Older children, once they’re used to it, should try making their expressions bigger and more exaggerated.

Have fun by adjusting the tempo as you go.

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Bomb Game

[Guaranteed to be a big hit with toddlers] An ultra-easy “Bomb Game” you can play

Bomb Game

A simple “Bomb Game” you can play with a rubber ball.

The rules are like a preschool version of dodgeball: set up areas in advance using tape lines or mats, and have the children move from mat to mat while avoiding the ball.

First, explain, “The ball is a bomb, so you mustn’t get hit.” Start by tossing the ball gently with an easy arc, then raise the difficulty as they get used to it by changing the ball’s trajectory or throwing faster shots off the wall or floor.

The kids will love the thrill—guaranteed excitement!

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Mark-finding game

[For 5-year-olds] Mark-Finding Game!

Mark-finding game

The “Mark Hunt Game,” where you walk along specified marks like circles, triangles, and squares, is an indoor activity recommended for children aged five and up.

First, tape several sheets of paper with different marks drawn on them to the floor to make a path.

Also prepare one sheet for each type of mark at the goal.

The children start while holding a ball.

It’s best to play barefoot so they don’t slip.

At the end, count how many balls were correctly placed at the goal for each team.

Competing by team and counting out loud together makes it really exciting!

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[Childcare] Let's all play! Recommended ideas for group activities and games (41–50)

Seven Steps

Fingerplay counting song 'Seven Step' rhythm game

Seven Steps

Let’s have fun with a counting song fingerplay! Here are some ideas for Seven Steps.

This activity is a rhythm game that nurtures concentration by counting while moving the body.

Some children may find it a bit difficult until they get used to the rules, but sharing the sense of accomplishment with friends when they succeed will deepen their bonds.

If they make mistakes, don’t get discouraged—keep the atmosphere light and try again! This can help foster children’s perseverance and a mindset that doesn’t give up.

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Crawling tail-chasing game

[Age 3] Crawling Tail Tag & Clothespin Relay

Crawling tail-chasing game

Let’s introduce a crawling tail-tag game that gets kids excited.

Give each child a “tail” made by braiding plastic ribbon (like florist’s raffia).

The teacher is “it” and chases the children.

At the start signal, the children crawl away to avoid being caught.

If a child gets their tail taken by “it,” they can rejoin the game after doing five jumps and putting the tail back on.

Try swapping who’s “it” or increasing the number of chasers to keep the game fun!

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