Newspaper Puddles
Newspaper sheets taped to the ground are puddles after the rain, and children jump over them, walk around them or step in them depending on the cue. Children work on jumping and finding their way around the space.
How to play
- Tell the story: it rained and the playground is full of newspaper puddles taped to the ground (1 min).
- Walk around without stepping in any puddle (1 min).
- Run, and when you reach a puddle, jump over it with both feet together (2 min).
- The teacher calls "Rain boots on!" and now we jump right into the puddles, splash! (2 min).
- The sun comes out: walk slowly and dry off by shaking arms and legs (1 min).
Rules
- No boots, no stepping in puddles.
- Jump one puddle at a time, no pushing.
- If a friend is in a puddle, find another one.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, puddles folded in half (small) and a big step over counts.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, open sheets and jumping with feet together.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, some puddles are double (two sheets in a row) for a longer jump, and try hopping on one foot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: in a wheelchair, zigzag around the puddles without rolling on them, then roll in when it's boots time.
- Visual impairment: puddles outlined with thick raised tape and a buddy who calls "Puddle!"
- Less confident jumpers: cross the puddle with a big step or holding the teacher's hand.
Learning goals
- Jump with a two-foot takeoff.
- Move around while avoiding obstacles on the ground.
- Warm up through pretend play.
Equipment for a class of 25
- newspaper sheets: 20
- masking tape: 1
Teacher tip
Tape the corners down well; a loose sheet on the ground is slippery. If it's windy, mist the sheets lightly with a spray bottle so they stay put.
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