Monkey Moves

Imitating monkey movements develops gross motor skills and introduces jungle animal behaviors.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Into the Jungle
• Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
• Level: Infant & Toddler

Objectives

• Swing arms like a monkey
• Practice jumping and climbing movements
• Follow movement instructions

Materials

• Open floor space
• Monkey picture cards
• Soft cushions for climbing

Instructions

1. Show pictures of monkeys swinging and climbing.

2. Demonstrate monkey arms swinging side to side.

3. Have children squat down and jump up like monkeys.

4. Create a simple climbing area with cushions.

5. Make monkey sounds together—'Ooh ooh, ah ah!'

6. End with a calm 'monkey rest' lying on bellies.

Educator tip

Join in enthusiastically! Your excitement is contagious.

Assessment

Note gross motor development and ability to imitate movements.

More from Into the Jungle

• Jungle Sounds
• Jungle Drums
• Animal Footprint Printing
• Snake Slither
• Learning Animal Names
• Elephant Stomp Song
• Counting Jungle Animals
• Jungle Leaf Rubbings