Game of the week: Things to do with balloons
First, try this leader/follow game that helps kids experience both roles in a fun context.  This game requires just one balloon at a time, but have a bag of them on hand in case of popping.  Blow up one balloon.  For this game, the best size balloon is small; this way the children can hold the balloon in one hand or two.  The challenge is to get everyone to touch the balloon as quickly as possible.  Each child shares his or her idea about how to accomplish this, and then gets a turn directing the group through a timed experiment of the idea.  The oBX kids came up with variations on Hot Potato, relay races, volley ball, and jacks to accomplish this.  When everyone has had a turn directing the group, help the children discover that the fastest way for them to all touch the balloon is to stand in a circle and all put one finger on the balloon at the same time.  This usually will get you a good laugh.

Next, if you are very brave, try letting the kids come up with their own game.  This experience lets them practice cooperation, group communication, turn taking, effective leadership, and attentive following.  Give every child a balloon.  Each child shares his or her idea of a group game that can be played with all the balloons, and then gets a turn directing the group in this game.  You'll be amazed at the creative ideas children come up with for complex, interesting, and fun games.  The oBX kids came up with balloon tag and a keep-it-off-the-floor contest.

Riddle of the week:
It lives without a body, hears without ears, speaks without a mouth, and is born in air. What is it?
An echo.
Highlight the above line with your mouse to reveal the answer!