Hopping Over the Train Tracks
Jump ropes laid on the ground make train tracks, and children travel along them jumping over each tie with feet together. They practice linked forward jumps and keeping a steady rhythm.
How to play
- Together, lay the ropes on the ground about one step apart, like railroad ties (2 min).
- The teacher models: stop before each rope, bring feet together, and jump over (2 min).
- Travel down the track in a line, waiting until the child ahead is halfway before starting (4 min).
- Be a train: say "choo-choo" on each jump and go faster or slower (3 min).
- Spread a few ties farther apart and try to make it across (2 min).
- Coil the ropes up like train wheels to put them away (1 min).
Rules
- I jump with both feet at the same time.
- I don't step on the ropes.
- I wait until the child ahead is far enough.
- I walk back to the line outside the tracks.
Variations
Easier
At age 3, ropes very close together, and they can pause between jumps as long as they need.
Standard
At age 4, continuous jumps without stopping, like a train that doesn't brake.
Harder
At age 5, ties at different distances and the last one on one foot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the child follows the track in a wheelchair or walking alongside, touching each rope with a hand or foot.
- Visual impairment: thick ropes in a contrasting color, and the teacher claps right before each tie.
- Less skill: set up two tracks, one with ropes closer together, and let each child choose.
Learning goals
- Jump forward with feet together.
- Link several jumps in a row.
- Adjust the jump to the distance.
Equipment for a class of 25
- jump ropes: 12
Teacher tip
Tape the rope ends down so they don't slide when stepped on. Typical mistake: jumping with one foot ahead of the other—remind them to use "penguin feet, close together."
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