Balls Through the Clothesline Hoops

Hoops hang from a rope strung between two posts, clipped on with clothespins like laundry on a line; children throw soft balls through them. They practice overhand throwing at a hanging target and teamwork between throwers and catchers.

How to play

1. Together we hang the hoops on the line with clothespins and watch them sway (2 min).
2. We stand on both sides of the clothesline, facing each other, each row behind its line (1 min).
3. One row throws through the hoops while the other collects the balls that come through and rolls them back (4 min).
4. We switch: the collectors now throw from their side (4 min).
5. The wind blows: the teacher gently jiggles the rope and we throw at moving hoops (2 min).
6. We take the hoops down and pick up the balls together (1 min).

Rules

• I throw when the teacher says "Laundry's up!"
• Collectors wait behind their line until all the balls are thrown.
• I roll the ball back, never throw it at anyone.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: one hoop hangs lower, at chair height.
• Visual impairment: wrap the hoops in neon tape and add a bell to one.
• Hearing impairment: give the throw signal by dropping a scarf.

Learning goals

• Throw through a hanging target.
• Cooperate in throwing and collecting roles.
• Adjust a throw to a moving target.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hula hoops: 4
• rope: 1
• large clothespins: 8
• soft balls: 25

Teacher tip

Tie the rope at the children's chest height, never at neck height, and keep the collectors well back, about five steps away. Use soft balls; some will fly toward the other row.

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