Learn to play Cone Chuckers!
Kids from Forest School playing an educational game called Cone Chuckers.
Nov. 14, 2024
We call it Cone Chuckers but it is also a "squirrel" themed game, AKA Nutty Squirrels! It draws on the natural behavior of young squirrels who must leave their mothers and compete for new territory, mimicking the real-world challenges of finding a place and fending off other squirrels. Keep in mind, baby squirrels are blind when born!
The integrated learning outcomes align with Oregon State Standards, encouraging active engagement in scientific inquiry, physical skills, empathy, and effective communication. By simulating animal behaviors and engaging in physical play, PFS students gain a hands-on understanding of ecosystems and interdependent relationships, teamwork, and problem-solving while practicing essential academic and social-emotional skills!
We select at least three student pairs to play. With communication and trust, teachers blindfolded each Baby Squirrel, while the Mother Squirrels guides them using only unique signals. The goal for each Mother is to help their Baby navigate, collect cones (usually Douglas Fir cones) “nuts,” and aim them at others (underhand tosses only); any squirrel hit must exit the field, reducing competition for territory until only one remains.
Before beginning, each pair establishes their unique sound signals—squirrel-like sounds like taps, chatters, and short yelps work well. Mothers should be as quiet as possible to avoid drawing attention to their Baby. These signals create an added layer of challenge, forcing the blindfolded Babies to rely entirely on their Mother’s unique guidance sounds.
The last Cone Chucker ( or Baby Squirrel) left wins the game, having successfully defended its territory.
Ian Abraham
Head of School
Portland Forest School
He, Him, His
PH: 503-662-8079