Red Light, Green Light

A race with a leader.

• Set Up

  • Open Space with a start and finish line

• Equipment

  • Cones (optional)

• Objective

  The goal of the game is to follow the commands of the leader until you cross the line.

• Directions

  1. Have each player along the end line. Stand on the opposite end line, acting as the “finish line.” The leader will alternate shouting out “green light” and “red light.” 

  2. The players run forward on “green light” trying to reach the end-line and stop upon hearing “red light.” 

  3. Anyone caught moving on “red light” must go back to start. 

  4. The first player to reach the opposite end line (or the original end line) wins! 5. Repeat for several rounds, changing the leaders calling the commands.

• Variations

  Add in additional “lights” to make the game more engaging. For example, add in “yellow light” and have players move slowly, “purple light” and have players do a different move like a bear crawl or crab walk. 

  ● Play with soccer balls or basketballs and have players dribble while they move.

• Coaching Points

  • Have different start points for older students to even the game out

  • Try tricking kids by saying something other than Green to catch movers

Reflection: Relationship Skills & Self-Management

1. What strategies did you use to be successful in this game?

2. How did you keep yourself from moving?