Game version
Play “Tail Tag” to a song. When the music plays you play, and when it stops you freeze like a statue, then start again.
Tail Tag
The grown-up tucks a scarf “tail” in their waistband and dodges; the child chases and pulls the tail. Nobody grabs a person, only the tail.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Tuck a scarf or sock into the back of your waistband as a tail.
- Ages
- 4 to 6
- Time
- 3 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Scarf or sock to tuck in a waistband
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Starts & Relays
The steps
How it works
- Tuck a scarf or sock into the back of your waistband as a tail.
- Move slowly around a small space while your child chases.
- When they pull the tail, cheer and swap: now they wear it.
- Play 4 or 5 short rounds with a rest between.
Coaching point
Praise the try: “Great dodging and turning!”
Safety: Only the tail is grabbed, never a person or clothes. Play on grass or a soft, flat, clear space with nothing to trip on. Stop for a drink and a rest whenever they want one.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Story
You are a penguin at a party, and “Tail Tag” is your dance.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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