Acorn, Acorn, Squirrel
Classic chase games like this fall-themed variation of Duck, Duck, Goose are beloved by children for good reason. They provide opportunities for aerobic exercise, reaction time development, and social-emotional learning around winning and losing gracefully. The fall theme transforms a familiar game into a seasonal celebration.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Autumn Festival
- Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
- Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception
Objectives
- Develop running and chasing skills in a structured game format
- Practise listening and responding quickly to auditory cues
- Build social skills through turn-taking and good sportsmanship
Materials
- Open space suitable for running (indoor gym or outdoor playground)
- Optional: pile of leaves for the "nest" in the centre
- Clear boundaries marked with cones or natural features
Instructions
Gather children in a seated circle on the floor or grass. Explain that you will play a special fall game similar to Duck, Duck, Goose, but with an autumn twist. In this version, the tapping player says "Acorn, acorn, acorn..." while walking around the outside of the circle, lightly touching each child's head or shoulder. When ready, they call out "SQUIRREL!" and the tagged child must jump up and chase.
Demonstrate the game with yourself as the first tapper. Walk slowly around the circle, building anticipation with each "acorn." When you call "Squirrel!" dramatically, have a predetermined adult or older child ready to model the chasing portion. Run around the circle back toward the empty spot. If the squirrel catches the tapper before they sit down, the tapper goes to the "fall leaves" in the centre of the circle.
Begin the game with children taking turns as the tapper. Guide children to move carefully around the seated friends, reinforcing gentle touches. Celebrate both successful escapes and captures equally, modelling good sportsmanship throughout.
Modify as needed: for very young groups, eliminate the "out" concept entirely and simply have roles swap. For competitive groups, create a variation where everyone gets turns regardless of catching success. Consider adding fall movement variations: "When you're in the leaf pile, show me how leaves blow in the wind!"
Educator tip
Some children become very anxious about being chased. Offer the option to be a "helper squirrel" who runs with the chaser rather than being chased alone. This maintains participation while reducing stress.
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 gross motor skills including running, stopping, and quick directional changes. Note social-emotional responses to winning and losing. Document listening skills and reaction time.