Friendship massage circle

Children sit in a circle one behind the other and give each other a massage to a rhyme – calming and bringing the group closer.

Steps

1. Children sit sideways in a circle so each has a friend's back in front of them. They ask: 'May I?'
2. The teacher says a rhyme and children act it out on the back: a lady walks – tapping fingers, a man walks – steps with the palms.
3. Rain falls – fingertips, the wind blows – stroking, the sun shines – circles with the palm, a hug – hands resting calmly on the back.
4. Children turn the other way and return the massage.
5. Finally everyone hugs themselves, wrapping their arms round their shoulders, and takes a deep breath.

Tip: Respect boundaries: a child can massage a ball instead or just listen. On Hug Day it's a good start to talking about always asking before touching.