Hand-in-Hand Double Hopscotch

In pairs, holding hands, children go through a two-column hopscotch grid where each partner jumps along their own side in rhythm with the other. They practice jumping in sync with a partner and helping each other in a recess game with no winners.

How to play

1. The teacher draws several two-column grids, like a wide ladder, and pairs line up at the start of each (1 min).
2. Holding hands, each in their own column, walk square by square counting together “one, two, three…” (2 min).
3. Now jump with feet together at the same time; if one partner gets ahead, they wait without letting go (3 min).
4. Try different combos: one jumps and the other walks, both tiptoe, or one hops on one foot while the other steadies them (3 min).
5. At the end, the pair makes up a high-five and walks back along the outside so the next pair can go (3 min).

Rules

• Don't let go of your partner's hand the whole way.
• Go at the speed of the slower partner.
• Each person stays in their own column.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child rolls through one column while the partner jumps the other, holding hands.
• Autism: keep the same partner every time and agree beforehand how they'll go.
• Visual impairment: the partner counts out loud and calls “Last one!” at the end.

Learning goals

• Match jumping to someone else's rhythm.
• Help a partner keep their balance.
• Play a cooperative hopscotch with no winners.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Sidewalk chalk: 10

Teacher tip

Assign pairs at first, then let kids choose their own. The faster partner tends to drag the other along, so stress counting out loud together.

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