Kagome Circle: Guess Who Is Behind

Materials

• None

How to play

1. Choose one central player, who sits and closes their eyes or lowers their face. Others form an inward-facing circle, optionally holding hands comfortably.
2. Walk slowly in one direction to the facilitator’s song. If unfamiliar with the song, an adult may count about 10 beats instead.
3. Stop at the song’s end or stop cue. The facilitator points to the player closest to directly behind the central player, who says a short “Hello.”
4. The central player makes one voice-based guess, then looks. Correct or not, swap with the player behind.
5. Prioritize volunteers who have not yet been in the middle. End after 5–6 rounds or when everyone has had a turn.

Ways to adapt

Preschool children: an adult starts in the middle. Younger primary school children: main rules. Older primary school children: try clues other than voice.

Sources and references

• 小学館 ほいくる「かごめかごめ」 ↗