Core Routines: Animal Forms, Wandering, Expanding the Senses
Skills Practiced: Awareness, movement in light, observation
Ecological Indicators: Sun position, terrain, animal mimicry
Qualities Fostered: Playfulness, Creativity, Attunement to Light
Directions (Shields): East (Inspire), South (Activate), West (Reflect)
Suggested Age Range: 5+ (loved by all ages, especially in low-angle light)
Timing & Energy Level: Best in early morning or late afternoon when shadows are long (East/West)
Set-Up & Materials:
- An area with good light and ground space (dirt, grass, trail)
- No materials needed
- Sunshine and moving bodies
Description:
Participants interact with their shadows—chasing them, hiding them, making animals from them. They might try to “step on” someone else’s shadow or use movement to stretch and twist it. Over time, this game builds awareness of light direction, time of day, and body presence. Shadow play opens sensory curiosity in a magical way and is often spontaneous when the conditions are right.
Coyote Mentoring Tips:
- Let it arise naturally: “Look at that long shadow—can you reach mine?”
- Use as a transition or break from more focused activity
- Ask, “What do your shadows say about where the sun is?”
Variations:
- Create a “shadow dance” with music or rhythm
- Combine with storytelling: “Your shadow is your animal guide…”
- Use chalk or tracing to freeze a moment of shadow play
Debrief Prompts:
- “What did you notice about your shadow?”
- “How did the light change during the game?”
- “What shapes surprised you?”
Story Seeds:
- Myths of shadows as spirits or companions
- Stories of shape-shifting and sun-followers
- Personal reflections on being seen or unseen