Animal Freeze
Here's What To Do
1
Tell your child that you will play a game where you will move around and pretend to be different animals.
2
When you say “freeze” you will both freeze for a few seconds in your animal pose; like a frozen animal or statue.
3
Then, when you say “go” you’ll move again like the same or a different animal.
4
Take turns with your child to lead the game.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Invite your child to touch their belly and take a few deep breaths with you. You can make some animal sounds as you exhale.
E
Engage:
- “We’re going to move around and pretend to be different animals. When I say ‘freeze,’ we’ll freeze and stay frozen in our animal pose.”
- “First, let’s think of some animals we can move like.”
E
Encourage:
- Give warnings before calling out “freeze.” “One, two, three let’s freeze.”
- Hold the frozen pose for a shorter amount of time. Encourage your child if they can’t stay frozen for long. “It’s ok, we’re practicing. Let’s count to two and then go.”
R
Reflect:
- “Show me your favorite frozen animal pose.”
Not quite ready?
Count out loud as you freeze for 1-2 seconds so your child knows when they’ll hear “go.”
Ready for more?
Freeze for longer periods of time. Encourage your child to show you different animal poses they can try when they freeze.
As your child masters this skill...
They’ll develop their ability to participate in movement activities.