Decorating the Big Tree of Lights

We draw a giant tree on the ground with hoops as spots for ornaments, and children decorate it by placing and then throwing balls from farther and farther away, until everyone works together to put the star on top. It builds accurate throwing and teamwork.

How to play

1. Draw a huge triangle tree in chalk and spread the hoops inside: those are the ornament spots (2 min).
2. First decorating: carry a ball in your hand and gently place it inside a hoop (2 min).
3. Throw from the near line with two hands underhand, aiming at the hoop of your choice (3 min).
4. Throw from the far line with one hand; if the ball rolls out, fetch it and try again (3 min).
5. The star: in a line, pass the yellow scarf hand to hand up to the top of the tree, where the last child places it (3 min).
6. Light the tree: everyone around it, arms up, twinkling hands open and shut, counting to three, lights on! (2 min).

Rules

• We throw from the line and only when no one is inside the tree.
• We fetch the balls when the teacher says “Go get them!”
• We put the star up together.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: throw from the wheelchair with a closer line and a buddy handing over balls.
• Visual impairment: put a jingle bell in the hoops and have a buddy clap from the target.
• Less skill: use fabric balls or beanbags that don’t roll; more skill: throw backward over the head.

Learning goals

• Throw accurately with two hands and one hand.
• Adjust throwing force to distance.
• Work together on a group task.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Chalk: 3
• Hoops: 10
• Soft balls: 30
• Baskets: 3
• Yellow scarf: 1

Teacher tip

Call it a tree of lights or a winter tree so every family feels included, whether or not they celebrate Christmas. Use a clear signal for throwing and fetching turns; the usual mistake is running in while others are still throwing.

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