Duck Duck Goose is one of those timeless group games that never goes out of style. Children sit in a circle while one walks around tapping heads—“duck, duck, duck…”—until suddenly: “goose!” The chosen child jumps up and chases them around the circle, trying to tag them before they grab the empty spot.
It’s fast, silly, and a brilliant way to help children practise turn-taking, listening, and moving their bodies with confidence. No prep, no props—just lots of giggles and a bit of healthy chaos!
Materials Needed
- None
Tools Needed
- None
Steps
- Form a Circle
Children sit on the ground or floor in a circle, facing inward. - Pick a Tapper
One child stands up and walks around the outside, gently tapping each head and saying “duck” as they go. - Say “Goose!”
At any moment, the tapper calls “goose!” and runs around the circle. - Time to Chase
The “goose” jumps up and chases the tapper, trying to tag them before they sit in the empty spot. - Switch Roles
If the tapper sits down untagged, the goose becomes the next tapper. If they’re tagged, they go again.
Variations
- Theme It: Use different words like “cat, cat, dog” or “pizza, pizza, broccoli” to match interests or learning themes.
- Quiet Goose: For indoor or calmer settings, try a version using hand taps and whispers instead of shouting.
- Freeze Tag Twist: After “goose” is called, the chaser has to freeze mid-run for a second before taking off.
- Small Group Mod: With fewer players, use soft toys or cushions as stand-ins to complete the circle.
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