Co-creating rhythm while progressing through space—no talking, only communicating through touch.
Video description
This activity starts just like Bulldozer—same arm position, partner leaning forward into the driver. The key difference: both partners keep their feet wide apart. This creates a stable base for teetering side to side. From here, the driver steers their partner as if turning a big bus wheel. The driver leans one way while steering the partner the other way. Their heads weave past each other in a playful crisscross. It imitates Side-to-Side Swings from Nurture.
Conditions of the game
The driver tilts their partner side to side, steering them into the crisscross rhythm.
The partner leans forward into the driver's arms, balancing but not resisting the side-to-side tilt.
Both partners keep their feet wide and keep stepping: the driver waddles forward while tilting their partner side to side.
The essential element is the rhythm of the crisscross—your heads alternating past one another.
See how much you can communicate without speaking—this sharpens haptic sensitivity.
Safety
Leave enough space so your heads don't collide. Wear headgear if extra assurance is needed.
Keep the stance wide and tempo easy. Slow down, pause, reset if balance feels shaky.
Variations
Walk in a straight line, trace a circle, or even a box.
Try different grips.
Adjust tempo: steady rocking, playful pauses, or quick bursts.
Pedagogical notes
Crisscrossing develops attunement through counterbalance. By leaning opposite your partner, you co-create a pendulum that requires haptic sensitivity and timing rather than force. The "bus wheel" image keeps the action playful and external—your focus is not on holding posture but on steering weight through rhythm.
– Sam