REP Game: Popcorn

It can be tempting to relax and put on a movie when kids are prevented from playing outside. However, it is important for children to remain engaged in physical activity. One of our Recess Enhancement Program’s (REP) favorite indoor games is Popcorn. The game incorporates teamwork, coordination, and fun competition and requires minimum equipment. Players will be having fun as they practice their coordination in a fun, competitive way.

ready

Who: Grades K to 5

Players: 10+

Set-up: Players form a circle

Time: 15+ minutes

Where: Any indoor space

Equipment: One ball

EXPLAIN

1. Form a circle! The leader of the game will always begin.

2. The leader throws the ball in the air, claps once, and then catches the ball.

3. The ball is then passed around the circle with each player having a chance to clap once before catching the ball. Everyone gets one turn per round.

4. If a player drops the ball, they must do 5 jumping jacks.

5. When every player has gone, the next round begins. Players who caught the ball after one clap in the first round can try two claps in this round. Players who didn’t succeed in the first round will try one clap again.

6. Whoever can get the most claps and still catch the ball is the winner!

CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING

How many turns do you get in each round?  Who begins each round?

PLAY: REP IT OUT

EASY: Instruct players to catch the ball without clapping.

MEDIUM: Time the players to see how quickly they can get the ball  around the circle.

HARD: Form two circles and have players race against each other.

TIPS

GAME TIP: Demonstrate the game before starting

CONFLICT RESOLUTION TIP: Have the players high-five anyone who catches the ball.

OUTDOOR TIP: Have the players make 2 circles and see who can get the ball all the way around their circle first.