Rolling Up the Parachute Donut

To tidy up, children roll the edge of the parachute inward while walking slowly toward the middle until it becomes a big colorful donut, then fold it together. It builds fine motor skills, cooperation and a calm close to the session.

How to play

1. Standing with the fabric stretched, the teacher shows how to roll the edge by turning hands inward, like rolling up a sleeping bag (1 min).
2. Everyone rolls at once, taking a small step toward the middle each time the hands turn (2 min).
3. When the circle is small, crouch and lay the donut on the ground; admire it and give it a few pats (1 min).
4. Fold it in half twice together, following the teacher (1 min).
5. One color carries the donut to its bag while the others wave goodbye (1 min).

Rules

• Roll slowly and together.
• Take small steps toward the middle.
• Don't pull your neighbor's fabric.
• We put the parachute away gently.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a child in a wheelchair rolls from their spot and the others walk toward them.
• Less hand coordination: the adult starts the roll on their section so they only need to keep turning.
• Autism: give the child the steady job of putting the parachute in its bag every day.

Learning goals

• Coordinate the movement of both hands.
• Cooperate to put equipment away.
• End the session calmly and in order.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Rainbow parachute: 1

Teacher tip

If you do it the same way every time, it becomes the closing ritual for every parachute session. Speak softly: your voice sets the pace.

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