Recreation for EveryoneA world of ideas for playing together.
← Back to activities
Chapter 2 · Indoor Games

No.50

Freeze Dance

Japanese name: ストップゲーム

Suggested ages
Approximately age 3 and older (preschool and up)
Group size
3-30 people
Suggested time
5-10 minutes
Location
A level indoor area

Materials

  • Music or clapping
  • Playing-area markers

How to play

  1. Mark an area where players can walk without colliding. Practice moving while sound plays and stopping when it stops.
  2. The facilitator starts music or clapping. Walk in one agreed direction or sway on your own spot.
  3. When the sound stops, freeze for 3 seconds with both feet on the floor. Moving does not eliminate you; continue when the sound restarts.
  4. Repeat moving and stopping 5–8 times. Finish with a safe pose of your choice and a deep breath.

Ways to adapt

Preschool children: add a visible adult cue. Younger primary school children: try animal-style walking. Older primary school children: freeze from free dancing.

Sources and references

More from this chapter

Here are a few more ideas to explore.

Indoor GamesNo.39

Find the Leader

Observe the whole circle rather than staring at one person. Use seated actions without demanding very fast changes or large movements.

Suggested ages
Younger primary school children and older
Suggested time
8-10 minutes
Group size
8-20 people
Indoor GamesNo.40

Fruit Basket

Demonstrate walking first so the activity does not become a rush for seats. For young children or a group unfamiliar with each other, give everyone a seat and let an adult remain…

Suggested ages
Approximately age 5 and older (preschool and up)
Suggested time
10 minutes
Group size
8-24 people
Indoor GamesNo.41

Captain Says

This is a listening game; never give dangerous or embarrassing commands. Explain clearly that some rounds require staying still.

Suggested ages
Approximately age 5 and older (preschool and up)
Suggested time
5-8 minutes
Group size
3-30 people