Useful for childcare! Today’s recommended recreational activities, including fingerplay and games!

Fruits Basket

Group game: Fruit Basket! The new Sumire class takes on the challenge together! Everyday life at Hachiman Kodomoen (Fukui City). April 2018.

Fruit Basket is a classic recreation game.

With a bit of creativity, it can be enjoyed by everyone from small children to adults.

In the standard way to play, you divide people into groups by fruit names, and when a fruit is called, those assigned to that fruit move to other open seats.

It can get lively if you use not only fruit names but also animal names or the names of kids’ favorite anime and characters.

And when the leader calls out “Fruit Basket,” everyone has to move—somehow that always makes things really exciting (lol).

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utatane

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Mimic Rhythm Play

A handy game for meeting time: “Copycat Rhythm”

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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mayumi

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cutout

@thi.nano154

Cutting out shapes is so fun!!!!!!!#chiina nodagashi (cheap, nostalgic Japanese snacks and candies)#vlog#StayAtHomeSquad#Japan

Classic Medley 2019 – Pianica Magician

Try your hand at a traditional pastime! Here are some ideas for katanuki (cutout art).

Katanuki is a common sight at festival stalls.

How about giving this long-loved activity a try? Use a needle, toothpick, or drawing pin to cut out various designs imprinted on a flat, board-like candy.

For children’s safety, you can also adapt the activity using construction paper or other materials.

With a bit of creativity, your customized katanuki will get kids excited and engaged.

Hula hoop relay

Hula hoop relay

Let’s clear the game by cooperating with friends! Here’s an idea for a hula-hoop relay.

It’s perfect for a sports day event for five-year-olds and is a great game for building teamwork.

Everyone holds hands and, without letting go, passes the hula hoop from person to person—working together is the key! Children will learn the importance of cooperation as they value teamwork and call out to encourage each other.

Through this event, they’ll deepen their bonds with friends and experience a real sense of accomplishment.

cushion hula hoop

You’re only allowed to walk on the cushion strips or inside the hula hoops! Here’s a unique game.

You’ll need two hula hoops, pool noodles, scissors or a utility knife, and masking tape.

Cut the pool noodles or any cushioned material and tape them to the floor—prep done.

Use two hula hoops to make your way to the goal! When you reach the cushioned course, set down a hula hoop and walk on the cushion.

Keeping your balance is trickier than it looks, so give it a try!