Opening Warm-Ups
Follow the Pack
Ages 3–75–7 minutes
At a glance
Movement copying, observation, teamwork
- Learning
- Copying movement, observing a leader and moving together as a Pack.
- Equipment
- No kit needed
- Best group
- 2–3 packs of 8–10
- Space / set up
- 2–3 packs in loose lines, each behind a leader.
- Duration
- 5–7 minutes
- Skills
- Movement, Teamwork, Jumping & landing
Setup
Coaching diagram
- Adult leader
- Pack following (child can lead)
- Movement
- Split the class into 2–3 packs, or keep one pack for small groups.
- Each pack forms a loose line behind its leader.
- Give each pack its own lane of space so lines never cross head-on.
How to play
Run the activity
- 1Coach leads the first pack with a movement — jogging, skipping, side-stepping.
- 2Children follow and copy exactly.
- 3Change the movement every 20–30 seconds: jumping, crouching, balancing, changing direction.
- 4Teacher or assistant leads a second pack at the same time.
- 5After several rounds, let a child become the leader.
Coach language
Say it like this
- “Stay with the pack!”
- “Copy the leader!”
- “Keep your space!”
Stage
Early Years / KS1
This activity is suitable for ages 3–7. Choose a stage to see the coaching guidance for that group.
Coach leads most of the activity and uses fun animal movements.
Scale it
30 pups
- Use three smaller packs rather than one long line.
- Teacher leads a second pack; a confident child can lead the third.
- Send packs on different routes so they never meet head-on.
Safety
Stay safe and strong
- Avoid lines running into one another.
- Keep speed controlled.
- Leaders must look where they are going.
Adapt it
Make it easier / Level it up
Make it easier: Coach leads only.
Level it up: Leader changes every 20–30 seconds.
Variations
More variations
Animal pack
Every movement is an animal the children choose.
Pack leader relay
Back of the line moves to the front to lead.
PAWS connection
PAWS / READY
WPrimary PAWS valueWork Together
Secondary PAWS links
AAlways Be KindSStay Safe & Strong
W: move as one Pack • A: everybody gets a turn to lead • S: keep your space and your speed controlled