Jumping Together Hand in Hand
In pairs, holding hands, children jump together over ropes and into big hoops, counting "One, two, three!" to stay in sync. They practice coordinating with a partner and cooperating.
How to play
- In pairs, hop in place holding hands, counting together "one, two, three" (3 min).
- Jump over a rope on the ground together without letting go (3 min).
- Travel a path of ropes and big hoops, jumping at the same time (4 min).
- Switch partners and teach them your trick for jumping together (3 min).
- Thank your partner with a high five (1 min).
Rules
- I don't let go of my partner's hand.
- We count together and jump together.
- If my partner is slower, I wait.
- Everyone has a partner; if one is left over, we make a trio.
Variations
Easier
At age 3, walk over the rope holding hands and make the last step a little hop.
Standard
At age 4, two-footed jumps together along the path.
Harder
At age 5, trios holding hands, or sideways jumps facing each other.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the partner pushes the wheelchair, and the child calls "one, two, three" for their partner to jump.
- Autism: the child may choose their partner, and a scarf can connect them if they don't like holding hands.
- Visual impairment: the partner acts as a guide and calls "Rope!" before each jump.
Learning goals
- Jump in sync with a partner.
- Help and wait for each other.
- Enjoy cooperative play.
Equipment for a class of 25
- jump ropes: 8
- hoops: 8
Teacher tip
Be the first pair yourself with a child so they see how to count before jumping. Use big hoops—two kids won't fit in a small one.
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