Opening Game

Animal Move Relay

Animal Move Relay turns a normal relay into a silly movement game. Children race to a marker and back while moving like different animals, which makes it a quick and funny way to start Activity Days.

Time8 to 15 minutes
Best ForTeams or small groups
SpaceCultural hall, gym, classroom, or outdoor area
SuppliesCones, chairs, or tape markers

How To Run It

  1. Divide the group into two or more teams.
  2. Set a marker several yards away from each team.
  3. Call out an animal movement such as frog jump, crab walk, bear crawl, penguin waddle, or bunny hop.
  4. The first child from each team moves to the marker and back using that movement.
  5. When they return, the next teammate goes.
  6. Change the animal movement every round so the relay stays fresh.

Animal Movement Ideas

  • Frog: Squat and jump forward.
  • Crab: Sit, lift up with hands and feet, and move backward or sideways.
  • Bear: Walk on hands and feet with hips up.
  • Penguin: Waddle with tiny steps.
  • Horse: Gallop carefully to the marker and back.