Little Builders Block Chain Wall

Two chains of little builders pass foam blocks hand to hand down the line, where others build a low wall. Then everyone steps or hops over the wall. Kids work on cooperation, passing and receiving objects, and arm strength.

How to play

1. Make two groups of ten. Each group forms a line, one big step apart, from a pile of blocks to a mat where the wall will go.
2. The first child picks up a block and hands it on saying "Here!"; the receiver says "Thanks!" and passes it on. The last two place the block on the mat (4 minutes).
3. Every five blocks, clap: "Switch builders!" The two builders move to the front of the line and everyone shifts one spot.
4. Change how blocks are passed: overhead, to the side with a twist, sitting on the floor (2 minutes).
5. When the wall is two rows high (knee height), test it: each child crosses their wall by walking, crawling, or with a small hop, landing on the mat (4 minutes).
6. Finish with "Earthquake!": everyone gently takes the wall apart and passes the blocks back down the chain to the pile (2 minutes).

Rules

• Hand the block over, never throw it.
• Stay in your spot in line until the switch.
• The wall is never higher than your knees.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child joins the chain from the wheelchair and is a permanent builder placing blocks; leave a gap in the wall sized for them to pass.
• Visual impairment: the partner touches the child's hand with the block and says their name before letting go.
• More skilled kids pass while seated with a twist; less skilled kids stand by you and get large blocks.

Learning goals

• Cooperate in a chain toward a shared goal.
• Pass and receive objects with both hands.
• Cross a low obstacle safely.

Equipment for a class of 25

• foam blocks: 40
• mats: 2

Teacher tip

Set up the block pile and mats before kids come in. Saying "Here!" and "Thanks!" sets the rhythm and keeps blocks from piling up.

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