A safe movement space. A paper steering wheel is optional.
What to Say
“You are the car and also the driver.”
“Can your car move slowly?”
“Stop at the red light.”
“Now find a comfortable place to park.”
What to Do
STEP 1 Choose safe movements: walking, marching in place or seated steering.
STEP 2 Call “green” for moving, “yellow” for slowing and “red” for stopping.
STEP 3 Let the child call the signals for you.
STEP 4 Add one quiet sound or body check at each stop.
STEP 5 End by “parking” on a chair, cushion or chosen spot.
JOIN YOUR CHILD Take turns being the driver and following the signals. Keep the game cooperative and playful.
One-Minute Version
Use one sequence only: move, slow, stop and park.
If Your Child Does Not Want to Participate
Let your child hold the signal cards, make car sounds, steer while seated or choose a different vehicle. Do not introduce penalties for missing a signal.
Make It Your Own
Use hand movements for a fully seated version.
Replace colours with words or gestures.
Turn the car into a train, bicycle, boat or animal.
Use the “park” ending before shoes, coats or bedtime routines.
Your child may begin matching movement to a cue, enjoy taking responsibility for signals or shift gradually from energetic to slower movement.
Use a clear route and walking speed indoors. Avoid collisions, furniture climbing and competitive racing. This is a pacing game, not a traffic-safety lesson.
I Am a Car, I Am a Driver, adapted from the LITTLE MINDS, BIG FOCUS Teacher Training Materials and Activity Collection.
