Germ Tag
Level 2 strengthens application and explanation. 'Germ Tag' deepens understanding of health responsibility.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Gross Motor
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Explain safety/hygiene reasoning
- Apply concept independently
- Collaborate during activity
Instructions
Materials
- One bright green beanbag or soft foam ball to represent the germ.
- Cones or floor tape to mark the boundaries of the play area.
- A set of visual cards showing hand washing steps.
- A portable speaker for upbeat music.
- Sanitizing wipes for cleaning the beanbag after the activity.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate spatial awareness by moving within designated boundaries.
- Follow multi-step instructions during a fast-paced game.
- Identify the importance of hygiene by connecting the germ tag to the need for hand washing.
- Practise gross motor skills including running, dodging, and stopping on command.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and explain that germs are invisible, but today we are using a green beanbag to see how they move from person to person.
2. Define the boundaries of the play area using floor tape or cones to ensure safety.
3. Select one child to be the germ carrier and hold the beanbag.
4. Start the music and encourage children to move around the space while avoiding the germ carrier.
5. Instruct the germ carrier to gently tag a peer with the beanbag.
6. Once tagged, the original carrier sits down to wash their hands, and the new carrier takes the beanbag to continue the game.
7. Pause the music periodically to discuss how the germ moved from one friend to another.
8. Remind children that when we touch germs, we must wash our hands to stay healthy.
9. Conclude the game by having everyone perform a pretend hand washing routine.
10. Wipe down the beanbag with a sanitizing wipe to model proper hygiene for the children.
Educator Tip
If children struggle with the concept of tagging, model the action slowly with a co-teacher first. To extend the activity for more advanced learners, add a second germ beanbag to increase the speed and cognitive demand of the game.
Assessment
- Observe if the child respects the boundaries of the play area during movement.
- Note if the child can explain why they wash their hands after being tagged.
- Record the child's ability to transition from active play to the hand washing routine upon command.
Educator tip
Require complete thoughts (sentence frames); rotate roles in pairs; photograph work for portfolios.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe reasoning, independence, collaboration.