Dragon Tail Chase

🧰 Supplies

• 1 red paper strip or ribbon per child (approx. 30–40cm long)

• Cones to mark boundaries

• Whistle (optional)

• Stopwatch/timer

👣 Set Up

1️⃣ Mark a clear playing boundary using cones.2️⃣ Give each child one “dragon tail.”3️⃣ Children tuck the tail into the back of their waistband so it hangs visibly.

• No knots.

• Must be easy to pull out.

Explain that tails must remain visible.

👣 How to Play

1️⃣ Start the Game

• On “GO,” children move around the space.

• They try to gently pull other players’ tails.

• No pushing, grabbing clothing, or tackling.

2️⃣ Immunity Rule (Very Important)

If a child steals a tail:

• They have 5 seconds of immunity.

• During that time, no one can steal from them.

• They must use that 5 seconds to tuck the stolen tail securely into their waistband.

Staff count loudly:“5… 4… 3… 2… 1… SAFE!”

After 5 seconds, they are back in play.

3️⃣ Losing Your Tail

• If a child loses their last tail:

  • They sit down on the edge.

  • They become Dragon Supporters.

  • They cheer others on loudly.

No re-entry during that round.

4️⃣ Winning the Round

Game ends when:

• One player has all (or most) of the tails.OR

• Time limit is reached (5–7 minutes).

Winner:

• Player with the most tails tucked in.

🏆 Optional Variations

Short Fast Rounds (Recommended)

Run 3–4 quick rounds instead of one long game.Keeps engagement high and prevents boredom.

Team Version

Split into two colours.Count total tails per team at end.

Safe Zones

Add 1–2 “Dragon Caves” (hula hoops).Players may stand in cave for 3 seconds only.

⚠️ Behaviour & Safety Rules

• Gentle tail pulls only.

• No holding clothing.

• No blocking or cornering.

• Stay inside boundaries.

• If behaviour becomes unsafe → 1 warning → sit out.