May Tip of the Month
Active Play EVERY Day!

Increase physical movement through the day in every way. Choose things you LIKE to do for at least 60 minutes of active time most days.
Activity Idea: Moving in the Right Direction

  
Source: Healthy Kids Challenge, Acting Up booklet
Description: Kids learn cardinal directions while in motion
Grades: K-2

Supplies:

 

 None
Crossing the Finish Line at Maude Trevvett Elementary’s Jingle Bell Run

Directions:


The teacher will:
1. Have kids scatter throughout a large identified area.
2.  Begin by having players review the four cardinal directions: North, South, East, and West.
3.  Identify a cardinal direction and instruct kids to perform a motion while moving in that direction.

EXAMPLE
Run 5 steps West
Hop 6 times North
Slide 3 steps East
Skip 4 steps South

SUGGESTION: As kids become proficient with the 4 basic directions, add north and south westerly and easterly directions.

Action Option: This activity can be modified to use in the classroom using simple dance steps. Have kids practice dance steps, then add the direction to the music. Don’t hesitate to ask the music professionals to lend you a hand! Examples: Grapevine West, Grapevine East, Cha-Cha-Cha-North, Cha-Cha-Cha-South

This activity is found on page 37 of the Acting Up booklet. For more activity ideas like the one above, check out HKC resource materials. See the order page for descriptors and to view the Table of Content and booklet sample pages.