Splashing in Hoop Puddles
Hoops spread on the ground are puddles after the rain: children walk around them, jump in to splash, stomp, and tiptoe around the edges. Children practice two-foot jumping and adjusting their steps to the space.
How to play
- The teacher spreads the hoops around the playground and everyone pulls on pretend rain boots (1 min).
- Walk between the puddles without stepping in, like when we're wearing new shoes (1 min).
- When you hear "Puddle!", jump into one with both feet together: splash! (1 min).
- Inside the puddle, stomp to make big splashes, then jump back out (1 min).
- Tiptoe around the outside edge of the puddle so we don't get wet (1 min).
- The sun comes out and the puddles dry up: everyone helps carry a hoop to the pile (1 min).
Rules
- Two friends fit in a puddle, no more.
- I jump with both feet at the same time.
- If a puddle is full, I find another one.
- I stomp hard, but I never push.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, they step in and out or do a tiny hop, and the teacher jumps with them.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, a two-foot jump to get in and to get out.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, link two puddles in a row without touching the ground in between, and hop out on one foot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: rolls into the puddle or holds a friend's hand, and "splashes" with their hands.
- Visual impairment: use thick-edged hoops or lay a rope around them so the puddle can be felt underfoot.
- More skilled children: jump in sideways or backward.
Learning goals
- Jump with both feet together and land with balance.
- Adjust steps to avoid or land in a specific space.
- Warm up the body through pretend play.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Hoops: 12
Teacher tip
Put out fewer hoops than children (one for every two) so they share puddles and there's no rushing. Model a soft "splash" landing with bent knees, or they'll land stiff-legged.
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