Cat and Mouse

SEL Domain(s): Relationship Building

Relational Risk: Low

Grades: K-5

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

Description:

A playful circle game where students practice leadership and observation skills as one player (the Cat) tries to guess who is secretly leading the group’s movements (the Mouse).

Materials

• Lesson script

Steps:

1. Form a Circle
   Have all participants sit in a circle.

2. Choose the CAT
   Select a volunteer to leave the room—this person is the CAT (guesser).

3. Choose the MOUSE
   While the CAT is out, the group silently selects a MOUSE (leader).

4. Start the Game

   • The MOUSE starts by clapping, and the group follows.

   • This noise signals the CAT to return and stand in the middle of the circle.

5. Lead and Follow

   • The MOUSE begins doing other movements (e.g., stomping, patting, waving, humming).

   • The group copies the MOUSE carefully without staring at them.

6. CAT Guesses

   • The CAT watches the group and makes up to 3 guesses to find the MOUSE.

   • If the CAT guesses correctly, they pick the next CAT.

   • If all guesses are used and the MOUSE isn’t found, the MOUSE becomes the new CAT.

Debrief Questions:

• What did we learn about leadership in this activity?

• What skills made someone a good leader in this exercise?

• How was the role of the followers important?

• In what ways are each of you a leader in this group? At home? In your community?