Balloon countdown

Children count down to 'noon' during the day by popping activity balloons each hour.

Steps

1. In the morning, the teacher hangs balloons with hidden activity slips inside.
2. Each hour, children pop one balloon and perform the challenge (dance, riddle, song).
3. The final balloon marks a shared countdown from 10 to 0 at noon.
4. Children make party hats and paper horns.
5. Finally, children share what they wish for in the new year.

Tip: For preschoolers, opening envelopes is gentler than popping balloons; not every child likes the loud pop.

Materials needed

• Balloons (1 pack)
• Party hats (1 per child)