Use this movement activity to help children further the study of shadows sparked by Ground Hog's Day last week. Creative movement activities using "shadowing" can be done individually or in a small or large group. This activity provides opportunity for the children to practice "laterality", the use of both the right and left sides of the body. Any movement fundamentals can be used in this fun activity.
Discuss with the children the concept of a shadow and how it is made. Then find a space where children can create shadows (either outside in the sunshine or inside with a light source). Have them practice making shadows.
The following movement idea is a small group or partner activity for shadowing using "laterality". Begin by having the children find a partner. Have them explore connecting their right and left sides to each other, such as: one child touch his/her right hand to the partner's left knee and observe the design created by their "shadow sculpture." Explore the many different ways partners can connect their right and left sides: shoulder to shoulder (right to right or right to left, etc.), feet, knees, ankles, toes, hands, elbows, etc. Have the children observe the "partner shadow sculptures" they create. Then have them stay connected and move their sculpture and observe the traveling shadow.
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