Walk like an animal
A playful way to ease tough transitions or connect by moving like animals to the next task.
Getting kids to move from one thing to another can be a daily battle, but playful prompts can make a world of difference. Instead of saying, "Come to the table," try: "Can you stomp like a dinosaur to the table?" or "Can you slither like a snake to the bathroom?"
Animal walks are a quick, fun way to invite cooperation, shift energy, and keep things light. They're also a great way to inject playfulness and bonding into your day generally.
It’s an easy parenting tool that brings joy to...
Play
Step 1:
Pick a transition moment that needs a playful boost (e.g. getting dressed, going to the table, heading out the door, leaving the park). Or maybe they're running ahead too fast and you need them to slow down like a sloth!
Step 2:
Invite your child to move like an animal to the next place.
Step 3:
Join in if you can - it keeps the energy fun and connected!
Step 4:
Try different animals to suit the mood - energetic ones to speed things up, calm ones to wind things down.
Extend
Mood match: Choose animals based on what energy you want - cheetahs to hurry up, turtles to slow down.
Make it a race: Time each other or race to the next room using animal walks.
Improv game: Let your child invent new animal moves or make up their own creatures.
