Hot Potato Game
Toddlers develop global awareness through movement, repetition, and play. 'Hot Potato Game' supports language growth and curiosity.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Gross Motor
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Label countries or symbols
- Imitate movements
- Match colours/shapes
- Follow 1-step directions
Instructions
Materials
- One soft, lightweight ball or a beanbag
- A portable music player or speaker
- A circular rug or floor markings to define the play area
- Small cushions for seating
- A colorful scarf or ribbon to signal the start of the game
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate basic turn-taking skills by passing an object to a peer.
- Practise gross motor coordination through grasping and releasing items.
- Respond to auditory cues by starting and stopping an action.
- Develop social awareness by participating in a group activity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Arrange the toddlers in a circle on the floor, sitting on individual cushions to provide clear personal space.
2. Introduce the soft ball and allow each child to touch or hold it briefly to build familiarity.
3. Explain that the ball is a hot potato and must be passed quickly to a friend.
4. Model the passing motion by handing the ball to the child on your right, using simple language like pass to your friend.
5. Play a short, upbeat song to signal the start of the movement.
6. Encourage the children to pass the ball around the circle while the music plays.
7. Pause the music after ten seconds to signal a stop.
8. If the ball is dropped, calmly retrieve it and place it back in the hands of the child who was holding it.
9. Keep the rounds very short to match the limited attention spans of toddlers.
10. Conclude the activity with a group stretch to transition to the next routine.
Educator Tip
Toddlers often struggle with the concept of passing and may prefer to hold the object. If the group becomes frustrated, simplify the game by having the teacher sit in the centre and pass the ball back and forth with each child individually rather than requiring a full circle rotation.
Assessment
- Observe if the child attempts to hand the object to a peer rather than keeping it.
- Note if the child reacts to the music stopping by pausing their movement.
- Record the level of physical assistance required to complete the passing motion.
Assessment
Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Participation, imitation, early vocabulary attempts.