This is a fun variation on the classic game called “Pin the Tail on the Donkey.” In this version, we use the same rules for the classic game to put together a silly portrait. This game can be played as part of a circle time, during a party, or even one on one.
Set up Time: 5 minutes
Directions
- Gather together large paper, regular paper, markers, a bandanna, and tape.
- On the big paper, draw a large, empty head. On the small paper, draw two eyes, two ears, a nose, and a mouth. Cut them out.
- Sit with children and talk about where these parts of the body are supposed to go, but don’t tape them on.
- Tape the large head on to a wall. Invite children one at a time to have a turn. Place a small piece of tape on the back of each face part and give it to the child.
- Then, place a bandanna over the child’s eyes. Spin the child 3 times and invite them to find the face and try to pin the body part in the correct part of the head.
- At the end, take a look at the silly portrait you have created!
Materials
- Easel paper
- Markers
- Scissors
- Tape
- Blindfold/bandanna
Tip
If working with large groups of children, add eyebrows, eyelashes, teeth, or even accessories. If caregivers want to extend this activity over many days, they can also invite children to color the body parts or draw their own!
If working with very young toddlers, you can simply let children explore taping facial features on to the large head. They will enjoy the tape and the large face!
Learning Through Play
Language: Vocabulary – Talk about the parts of the face as you arrange the face the correct way and then repeat the words a few times when playing the game. For example, say “Okay, now I have the nose. Juliette will have a turn to pin the nose, let’s see if she can put the nose in the right place.”
Physical: Gross Motor – Spinning is great for children! It helps them strengthen their vestibular system, which is what helps them develop depth perception and maintain balance. So try to add some spinning to children’s day whenever possible!
School Readiness: Spatial Learning – Sometimes silliness is the greatest way for children to show you their understanding of the world! In this activity, by having a face that turns out a bit crazy, children can use spatial or directional language to help you correct it. For example, they may say “oh no, the nose is upside down!” or “The mouth is on top of the head.”
See this activity in the Rayz Kidz app, along with the other fun Movement activities. Rayz Kidz is your trusted source for play-based activities featuring over 100 themes and 500+ hands-on activities and clear descriptions of the beautiful learning that is happening through play.
