Boston is finally experiencing some wonderful weather, which has inspired me to take advantage of the outdoors before the end of the school year arrives. To review and reinforce some of the units we’ve explored this year, I’ve decided to dedicate the remaining days to playing outdoor games.

One game I introduced to my kindergarteners was a chant-based activity that we previously learned in the classroom. It was incredibly enjoyable, and all of the students were eager to participate. The game itself is straightforward and comes with a chant that guides movement and dancing:

“Un pato, un pato con una pata,

un pato con las dos patas,

un pato con las alitas,

un pato con la colita

y ahora te toca a ti!”

Translated into English, the chant means “A duck, a duck with one leg, a duck with two legs, a duck with wings, a duck with a tail, and now it’s your turn!” The children stand in a circle, and the chant is recited while everyone moves and dances according to its instructions. One child is then selected to dance in the middle of the circle while the rest of the class chants “pato, pato, pato!” or “duck, duck, duck!”

This game is never-ending because everyone wants a chance to be “el pato” or “the duck.” It’s a delightful way for the children to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while also chanting in Spanish.

If you’re interested, feel free to give it a try and let me know how it goes!

Have fun!