A small clear space. Music is optional.
What to Say
“Move in any safe way while the sound is playing.”
“Freeze – and notice your feet, hands or heartbeat.”
“Ready to move again?”
“There is no perfect freeze.”
What to Do
STEP 1 Agree on safe movements such as walking, swaying, marching in place or moving the arms.
STEP 2 Begin moving together, with or without music.
STEP 3 Say “freeze” or pause the music.
STEP 4 During the pause, notice one body sensation for a few seconds.
STEP 5 Repeat two or three times and finish with a slower final movement.
JOIN YOUR CHILD Play alongside your child and take turns giving the freeze signal. Show that adults also wobble and adjust.
One-Minute Version
Move for 20 seconds, freeze and notice your feet. Repeat once and finish.
If Your Child Does Not Want to Participate
Offer a seated hand-movement version, let the child control the signal or simply watch. Never use elimination or consequences for moving during a freeze.
Make It Your Own
Use finger, facial or shoulder movements in a seated version.
Replace music with clapping or a spoken cue.
For sound-sensitive children, use a visible hand signal.
For small spaces, move only on the spot.
Your child may anticipate the signal, pause briefly, notice breathing or heartbeat, or adjust movement to the available space. Wobbling is normal.
Clear the movement area and prohibit running, jumping onto furniture or sudden contact. Choose movements appropriate to the child’s mobility. Stop if excitement makes the space unsafe.
Freeze & Move, adapted from the LITTLE MINDS, BIG FOCUS Teacher Training Materials and Activity Collection.
