Flamingo Challenge
One-leg balance made into a challenge ladder: stand, then count, then with eyes on a target, then with a beanbag, then with a wobble. Children track their own level.
Overview
You need
No equipment neededOptional: BeanbagsOptional: Spot markers
Skills developed
- Stability: single-leg balance
- Core strength: staying upright
- Persistence: trying the next level
NEL Framework: Motor Skills Development.
Set up
1Step 1
Children stand in a space, feet together.
2Step 2
Coach shows a flamingo: one foot lifted to the side of the knee, arms out.
ChildTagger / team BCoachHoopSpotConeBallBeanbagRope or lineMarked areaWhere they move
How to play
- Level 1: flamingo for a count of three. Level 2: count of ten.
- Level 3: flamingo while looking at your own hand held out in front.
- Level 4: flamingo with a beanbag on the lifted knee. Level 5: flamingo, then a tiny hop, then flamingo again.
- Swap legs and start again.
Tips for explaining
"Pick a spot and stare at it." The single most useful balance cue.
"Squeeze your bottom." Locks the standing hip.
Make it easier / harder
EasierHold a wall or a friend's hand. Foot just off the floor.
HarderFlamingo on a soft mat. Eyes closed for a count of three.
Safety
Nothing to fall onto. On hard floors, no eyes-closed level.
More balance games
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Rather we ran it for you?
This is one of the games our coaches run in pre-schools every week, with our own equipment. Weekly enrichment, sports days, or a whole holiday programme for your centre, planned in one message.