Duck, Duck, Goose and Friends
Traditional circle games provide structured opportunities for children to develop physical skills within a social context. Running, freezing, and quick directional changes build coordination while the game format teaches turn-taking, rule-following, and gracious participation whether winning or losing.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Zoo
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception
Objectives
- Follow directions and participate in classic circle games
- Run with appropriate speed while developing gross motor muscles
- Take turns and demonstrate sportsmanship during group games
Materials
- Open space large enough for a circle game
- Optional: Soft music for the Animal Statues variation
Instructions
Arrange children in a seated circle with adequate space behind each child for running. Explain the rules of Duck, Duck, Goose clearly before beginning. One child walks around the outside of the circle, gently tapping each child's head and saying "Duck" with each tap. When the walking child chooses to say "Goose," the tapped child must quickly stand and chase the first child around the circle. The goal is for the first child to reach the empty spot before being tagged.
If the running child is caught before reaching the spot, they go to the "chicken soup" area in the centre of the circle before rejoining the game. Encourage children to tap gently and celebrate both successful chases and successful escapes.
Introduce the Animal Statues Game as a movement variation. Play upbeat music while children dance freely around the space. When the music stops, everyone must freeze immediately in the pose of a zoo animal. Walk among the statues, admiring each animal pose and asking children to name what animal they are pretending to be.
For a third activity, teach "What Time Is It, Mr. Wolf?" One child becomes the wolf and stands with their back turned at one end of the space while other children line up at the opposite end. Children call out: "What time is it, Mr. Wolf?" The wolf answers with a time, and children take that number of steps forward. When the wolf thinks children are close enough, they respond "Lunchtime!" and turn to chase the others. Whoever is caught becomes the next wolf.
Educator tip
Monitor children's energy levels and provide rest breaks as needed. For children who may struggle with competitive elements, emphasize the fun of movement over winning or losing. Consider using animal variations such as "Duck, Duck, Bear" to connect with your zoo theme.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe each child's gross motor development during running activities and their ability to follow game rules appropriately for their developmental stage.