Parachute Ball Around the Rim
The group raises and lowers the parachute edge in a synchronized wave so a ball rolls all the way around the rim of the canopy. Students work on shared rhythm, anticipation and whole-group coordination.
How to play
- Students hold the parachute edge at waist height; set a soft ball next to the edge (1 min).
- Explain the wave: when the ball reaches you, lift your arms; once it passes, lower them. This makes a valley that pushes the ball along (2 min).
- Slow-motion tries with the teacher calling 'up' and 'down': complete one lap without the ball rolling into the middle (3 min).
- Timed challenge: count full laps in 1 minute. Do 3 tries, switching direction, and record the class best (4 min).
- Now with no teacher calls, only watching the ball. If it falls into the middle, the count restarts but adds to the total (3 min).
- Final challenge: two balls on opposite sides roll the same way without catching each other for 30 seconds (2 min).
Rules
- No one lets go of the edge; if the ball falls in, the teacher gets it.
- Laps are counted together each time the ball passes the starter.
- Don't bat the ball: the canopy only rises and falls to guide it.
- Safety: don't walk backward while pulling the canopy.
Variations
Easier
A large, light ball, with half a lap as the first goal.
Standard
One soft ball and full laps in 1 minute.
Harder
Two balls going opposite ways that pass without colliding.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: hold the edge at the student's height, and the group keeps the wave lower in that section.
- Visual impairment: use a ball with a bell and a partner who taps the student's shoulder when to lift.
- Skill or fitness level: a student who loses the rhythm stands next to someone who quietly calls 'up'.
Learning goals
- Synchronize a movement with the group's rhythm.
- Anticipate a moving object and act on time.
- Improve a class record through practice.
Equipment for a class of 25
- play parachute: 1
- soft balls: 2
Teacher tip
At first almost everyone lifts too late, so ask them to lift when the ball is one step away. Spread your most skilled students around the circle to help set the rhythm.
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