Tear Down the Walls

Physical destruction play in a safe context helps children release energy and feel empowered.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: My Feelings
• Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
• Level: Infant & Toddler

Objectives

• Use gross motor skills to knock down structures
• Experience healthy physical release
• Rebuild after destruction—resilience lesson

Materials

• Large cardboard boxes
• Soft blocks
• Pool noodles
• Safe building materials

Instructions

1. Build a wall of boxes or soft blocks together.

2. Discuss times when we feel frustrated and need to let it out.

3. Take turns safely knocking down the wall.

4. Celebrate the crash! Jump and cheer.

5. Rebuild the wall together.

6. Discuss: 'Even when things fall down, we can build again.'

Educator tip

Set clear safety rules: use soft materials, take turns, stay in the area.

Assessment

Observe gross motor skills, turn-taking, and emotional regulation.

More from My Feelings

• The House
• Cookie Jar
• Brown Bag Faces
• Playing Feelings
• Happy Masks
• Making Noise
• Our Faces Use Muscles
• Let It Out