A Tight Squeeze

SEL Domain(s): Self-confidence, Relationship Building

Relational Risk: Low

Grades: 1-5

*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students

Description:

Students engage in a fun, space-limited team challenge that builds problem-solving skills and cooperative communication.

Materials

• Roll of tape

• Rope or jump ropes (to define boundaries)

• Lesson script

Steps

1. Set Up (5 minutes)

   • Use tape or rope to create two long parallel lines on the floor, spaced about 8–12 inches apart.

2. Introduction (5 minutes)

   • Have all students stand inside the space between the lines.

   • Explain the key rule: If anyone steps on or outside the lines, they are out and must re-enter at the end of the line.

3. Challenge #1: Birth Month Order (5–7 minutes)

   • Ask the group to silently arrange themselves in order of their birth months—without stepping outside the lines.

4. Challenge #2: Birthday Order (5–7 minutes)

   • Once successful, ask them to arrange by actual birthday (month and day), again without stepping out.

5. Additional Challenges (10–15 minutes)

   • Try new prompts, such as:

     • Line up by height

     • Line up by number of siblings

     • Line up by first letter of their name

   • Increase difficulty by narrowing the space or using time limits.

6. Reflection (5 minutes)

   • Gather students in a circle. Ask:

     • “What strategies helped you succeed?”

     • “How did it feel to work as a team?”

     • “What would you do differently next time?”