Parachute Game: The Volcano
Light balls are placed on a play parachute and the class shakes it to make them erupt like a volcano, then tries the opposite: keeping them all on. A cooperative activity that develops coordination, timing and group communication.
How to play
- Students hold the edge of the parachute with both hands, evenly spaced around it (1 min).
- Place 10 light balls in the center (30 sec).
- Shake gently so the balls bounce without falling off (2 min).
- On “eruption”, shake hard to launch them into the air; collect them and repeat (2.5 min).
- Opposite challenge: keep all balls on the parachute for 20 seconds while making waves (2.5 min).
- Calm down by lowering the parachute slowly and collecting the balls (1.5 min).
Rules
- Hold the parachute with both hands at all times.
- Shake only when the teacher gives the signal and stop at “freeze.”
- Collect stray balls only when the teacher says so, walking.
- Never throw balls at classmates or go under the parachute.
Variations
Easier
Use only 3 or 4 balls and gentle shaking so younger students stay in control.
Standard
Ten minutes with 10 balls, eruptions on signal and the keep-them-on challenge.
Harder
Split the circle in two halves: each half tries to shake the balls off the other half's side.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: seated participation holding the parachute edge.
- Sensory sensitivity: warn before each eruption and let the student stand a bit back.
- Low fitness: allow rest by holding without shaking.
Learning goals
- Cooperate as a group.
- Develop coordination and timing.
- Communicate to reach a shared goal.
Equipment for a class of 25
- play parachute: 1
- light balls: 10
Teacher tip
Count down before each eruption so nobody gets surprised. Have a bin ready to collect balls quickly.
PatioLab has "Parachute Game: The Volcano" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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