Lovely childcare

[Childcare] Wordplay and game ideas everyone can enjoy together

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.

There are many ways to enjoy words.

For children who are still growing, language is fascinating and mysterious.

By all means, let’s play with words together with the children.

You can adapt it to their age, turn it into activities or games—there are many ways to engage in word play.

Choose ideas that match the children’s interests and the atmosphere of your class.

A key point is that teachers can incorporate words they especially want children to become familiar with.

Try different variations and let them encounter a wide range of words.

[Childcare] Wordplay and game ideas (31–40) that everyone can enjoy together

The ‘It fell, it fell’ game

[Nursery/Kindergarten] The “It Fell, It Fell” Game [How to Play, Target Age, Variations]

The 'It fell, it fell' game

Let me introduce a quick-reaction game called “It Fell, It Fell.” The teacher says, “It fell, it fell,” and the children ask, “What fell?” The teacher names what fell.

For example, if the teacher says “an apple,” the children should pose as if they’re catching an apple.

If the teacher says “a fist,” the children should protect their heads with their hands so they don’t get bonked.

If it’s “thunder,” they should hide their belly button with their hands.

It might be more fun if you teach the poses to the children beforehand and then start the game so they can join in easily.

Once they get used to it, it’s also recommended to have fun by changing up what “falls.”

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Copycat game

Let's try it with the teacher! Copycat Game♪

Copycat game

Let’s have fun with body mimicry! Here are some ideas for a copycat game that’s sure to make everyone smile.

While copying the teacher’s movements, strike unique poses like animals or heroes and play together.

You’ll find yourselves laughing and saying, “What is this?!” as you move your bodies.

While playing, kids build flexibility and balance, and the best part is learning through fun—“Can you really do this pose?” You might even discover some unexpected moves!

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In conclusion

We introduced games and activities that let children experience the wonder of words.

As children grow, they come to understand and use language.

It would be great if they could play without overthinking it and simply enjoy themselves.

Wordplay can be adapted in many ways depending on the teacher’s ideas.

Please try incorporating plenty of words you want the children to become familiar with and have fun playing with them.