Jump the Stream
Two ropes make a stream that gets wider each round. Children take a run-up and jump it. Simple, self-levelling and thrilling for a four-year-old.
Overview
You need
RopesOptional: Cones or markers
Skills developed
- Locomotor: run-up and two-foot take-off
- Stability: landing on two feet
- Confidence: trying a bigger gap
NEL Framework: Motor Skills Development.
Set up
1Step 1
Lay two ropes side by side, a narrow gap between them, in the middle of the space.
2Step 2
Children line up a few metres back from the stream.
ChildTagger / team BCoachHoopSpotConeBallBeanbagRope or lineMarked areaWhere they move
How to play
- Run up and jump over the stream, landing on two feet on the far side. Walk round to the back of the line.
- After everyone has been, widen the stream a little. Keep going.
- If a child lands in the stream, they "dry off" with a wiggle and try the narrower end. Angle the ropes so one end is narrow and one wide: children choose their gap.
Tips for explaining
"Swing your arms." Arms forward on take-off adds distance.
"Two feet together to land." Then freeze for a count of two.
Make it easier / harder
EasierStep over instead of jump. Keep one end of the stream very narrow.
HarderJump from standing, no run-up. Jump and turn to face the way you came.
Safety
Landing area must be clear and non-slip. Only one jumper at a time.
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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.