Dying Cock Roach / or Engine Trouble
About:
Once I was newer to a class room, the kids were barely contained. As I started to introduce this game the classroom teacher looked at me very disapprovingly like I was about to unleash Armageddon. I had confidence this game would help focus and settle the group, not because of the big energy release but because of the clear rules and structure which helped order the students big energy.
I worked at a very good psychiatric clinic. Many of the kids there struggled with impulse control. They would have melt downs and temper tantrums often requiring restraints. We got smart and start to make them the offer, if you would hold it together until this afternoon, we will have a group where you can have the king of tantrums and not only not get in trouble but actually earn a lot of praise. Many times this deal supported these kids to bear their frustration and wait to have their tantrum. We would do a version of this game and all present would have a good time.
Purpose of this game:
This game allows for a very full physical emotional energetic release in a way
that is safe. Allow the group to support and accompany each student in hiser full
expression.
Prerequisites:
Ready: Group needs to be able to follow a 'Stop' signal
Balloon Conductor
Directions:
"I once had a car and the engine was having trouble, it made all kinds of loud noises, it shook and then it finally died/stopped. We are going to act out this car engine dying/break down/ stopping.
The rules are:
- you have to stay inside this particular space. (About a 5' by 5' area is good. Carpet or a padded mat is good.)
- You can't touch anyone or throw anything while you are in the middle.
- You have to call sticks ready and count off.
- When I call the ending, you have to come be the quiet engine, and then come out of the circle and rejoin the other students or if you need a little rest time, we can arrange that.
- It is best to have teacher and assist model this. It can be meaningful for students to see that responsible adults can have a tantrum on command if they choose to.
Glitches:
- Student(s) doesn't stop when the music stops
- Take Over the Problem.
- Reset- sit out for one cycle of the game
- Students leaves the defined circle while acting.
- Instantly stop the game and address this violation. Make it clear that breaking this rule will not be tolerated.
Needs Met:
Safety- having a clear set of rules and boundaries, secure frame to move in.
Novelty- use novel movements
Connection- moving together, stopping and starting together.
Growth- learning to master a temper tantrum rather that being at the effect of one's emotions.
Metaphor to Explore:
When have you lost control of your emotions?
When have you managed a big frustration?