Me-Asaurus

The Basic Idea

This is a dinosaur version of Grandmother’s Footsteps – as you sneak up on “Granny” you need to move like dinosaurs and freeze in a dino pose every time “Granny” turns around. At the end shout your own dinosaur name, e.g. Jake-a-saurus!

Over to You, Wee One

Take turns being the Granny and being the dinosaurs. Ask your wee one what different dinosaurs you could be and ask them to show you how they might move. Don’t get too caught up in the “rules” of the game, just enjoy moving and exploring their ideas.

Cheeky Bonuses

• Putting them “in charge” of rules develops their sense of agency
• Moving in lots of different ways helps develop balance and coordination

Variations

• Add more narrative to build dramatic tension – maybe the dinosaur’s trying to sneak some food?
• What other kind of dinosaurs could you invent? have a look around for ways to dress up as you play – jumperasaurus, anyone? Buckethead-a-don? No idea is too silly!

And Remember...

Being silly with our words and our bodies is a great way to get wee ones more confident about communicating – and it works best when we show we’re listening to them and value what they’re telling us. Take on their ideas and embrace the creativity and fun.