Outdoor
What's the Time, Mr. Wolf?
Also called What Time Is It, Mr. Fox?, Mr. Wolf
Kids creep toward the wolf by asking the time and taking that many steps — until the wolf shouts 'Dinner time!' and gives chase.
- people
- 5–30
- time
- 10 min
- energy
- High
- materials
- No materials
Kids-safeHR-safeChurch-safe
Before you start
Mark a safe line at one end of the play area. The wolf stands at the other end facing away from the group.
- 1Players call out together: 'What's the time, Mr. Wolf?'
- 2The wolf answers with a time, like '3 o'clock', and players take that many steps forward.
- 3Whenever the wolf likes, they shout 'Dinner time!' instead, turn and chase everyone back to the safe line.
- 4The first child tagged becomes the next wolf.
What to say3
- 1“Everybody together: what's the time, Mr. Wolf?”
- 2“Four o'clock! One, two, three, four steps!”
- 3“DINNER TIME! Run back to the line!”
Host tips3
- Let an adult be the first wolf to show how it works — and to be slow enough that the little ones get away.
- The safe line must be well away from walls and furniture; children run back at full speed and do not look where they are going.
- Fast kids end up as the wolf every time. Swap the wolf every three rounds no matter who is tagged.
Variants2
Step styles
The wolf calls the type of step too — giant steps, baby steps, hops, crab walks.
Freeze wolf
The wolf can turn round at any time; anyone caught moving goes back to the start. Less running, good indoors.
Safety2
- Play on grass or a non-slip floor; running backward and turning cause falls.
- Remind the wolf to tag gently on the arm or back — no pushing.
Good for
Occasions
BirthdaySchoolFiestaReunion
Venues
OutdoorIndoor, largeChurch hall