Hoop Train Obstacle Ride

Groups of four form a train, each child inside a hoop linked by hands, and travel together through a course of curves, tracks and fabric tunnels. To get through without breaking the train, they must match their steps. Kids work on cooperation.

How to play

1. Set up a wide course: a cone zigzag (curves), 2 ropes on the floor (train tracks), a fabric tunnel held up by two adults or two kids, and mats (the station).
2. Make groups of 4. Each child stands inside a hoop, holding their own hoop with one hand and the hoop in front with the other. Practice: "Choo-choo, here we go!" (2 min).
3. Trains travel the course slowly, one behind the other with space. The first child is the engine and leads the way (3 min).
4. Tambourine: switch engines. The first child moves to the back of the train (every 2 minutes until everyone has led) (6 min).
5. At the station, trains stop, sit down and start again at the tambourine.
6. Finish: all the trains join into one very long train for a last slow lap to the station (3 min).

Rules

• The train moves at the pace of the slowest car.
• If a car lets go, the train stops and waits.
• Don't pull anyone's hoop.
• Trains don't crash: leave space.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child is the engine or the caboose and the train goes at their pace, with a large hoop for the wheelchair.
• Visual impairment: the child rides in the middle, guided by the hoops in front and behind.
• More skilled: six-child trains; less skilled: two-child trains with an adult as the engine.

Learning goals

• Move while matching the group's rhythm.
• Cooperate to keep the train together.
• Take turns as leader and follower.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hoops: 20
• cones: 6
• ropes: 2
• fabric pieces: 1
• mats: 3
• tambourine: 1

Teacher tip

Before starting, practice the train standing in place. With three-year-olds, use two-child trains: they work best.

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