One Bounce in Every Square

Rows of chalk squares are drawn on the playground, and children move along them bouncing the ball once inside each square and catching it before stepping to the next. It works on bouncing, catching and fitting the movement into a small space.

How to play

1. Each child with a ball: bounce it and catch it standing still, with both hands (2 min).
2. The teacher shows a row of squares: step in, bounce inside the square, catch and move to the next (2 min).
3. Go along the rows of squares at our own pace and walk back on the outside (3 min).
4. In the squares with a star, bounce twice before moving on (3 min).
5. Final challenge: how many squares in a row can I do without losing the ball? (2 min).

Rules

• One bounce in each square.
• I catch the ball before moving on.
• If it gets away, I grab it and pick up where I left off.

Variations

Adaptations

• Less dexterity: a bigger, softer ball or a beach ball that bounces slowly.
• Limited mobility: roll along a wide lane of squares in the wheelchair, bouncing the ball to one side.
• Visual impairment: a ball with a bell inside and squares outlined with ropes they can feel underfoot.

Learning goals

• Bounce and catch with both hands.
• Adjust bounce strength to the space.
• Stay focused on a sequence.

Equipment for a class of 25

• medium balls: 25
• chalk

Teacher tip

Draw six to eight rows so there are no lines. The classic mistake is bouncing too hard: "a low, gentle bounce" helps a lot.

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