Block Toss at the Mat Wall

Mats stood upright against the wall make a soft target, and children throw foam blocks at it as hard as they can, shouting if they like. It's a safe way to let off steam and anger, with one clear limit: at the wall, never at people.

How to play

1. The teacher stands the mats up against the wall and tapes a throwing line on the floor (2 min).
2. Everyone grabs blocks and throws them at the mat wall from behind the line (3 min).
3. We throw hard and shout something: “Take that!”, “Go away!”, “I'm mad!” or any sound that comes out (3 min).
4. We throw softly, almost silently, to feel the difference (2 min).
5. We gather all the blocks and make a pile next to the wall (2 min).

Rules

• Blocks go at the wall, never at people.
• We only fetch blocks when the teacher says “Pick up!”
• We can shout loudly, but only during the game.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: throw from the wheelchair with the line closer, and a classmate brings blocks over.
• Autism: if the shouting is too much, offer headphones or a quieter turn.
• Visual impairment: hang a bell on the mat wall so it rings when hit.

Learning goals

• Release energy and strong feelings through a safe action.
• Practice one- and two-handed throwing.
• Accept the limit of never throwing at people.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Mats: 4
• Foam blocks: 30

Teacher tip

It works great after a wild recess or when the group arrives wound up. Keep the throwing zone clearly separate from the pickup zone; the usual problem is a child fetching a block while others are still throwing.

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