Sponge Splats on the Chalk Target

The teacher draws chalk targets, faces, and animals on an outside wall, and kids throw wet sponges to leave a water mark on them. It works on throwing with each hand, aim, and choosing how far away to throw from.

How to play

1. The teacher draws a big target, a sun, and a monster on the wall; we mark three throwing lines in chalk on the ground (2 min).
2. We soak the sponge, squeeze it a little, and try a throw from the closest line: splat! (2 min).
3. We throw with our writing hand, then the other one, picking up our sponge and walking back along the side (3 min).
4. The teacher says where to aim: the sun, the monster's nose, the bull's-eye (2 min).
5. Each child picks a line to throw from and steps back if they're doing well (2 min).
6. We look at the wall covered in water marks and watch the sun dry them up (1 min).

Rules

• I only throw at the wall and only when nobody is in front.
• I pick up my sponge from the side, not the middle.
• I wait behind the line.
• Sponges go at the wall, never at a friend.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: throw from the wheelchair at a target drawn lower, with a buddy returning the sponge.
• Visual impairment: make a raised target with thick tape, and the teacher claps from the target to orient them.
• Less dexterity: smaller, lighter sponges or underhand throws with both hands.

Learning goals

• Throw with each hand separately.
• Adjust force to distance.
• Choose a challenge that fits their skill.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Large sponges: 12
• Shallow basin: 3
• Sidewalk chalk: 6

Teacher tip

Set up pickup along the sides so nobody crosses in front of the wall while others throw: that's what matters most. A sunny wall acts as a board that erases itself. With a big group, use two walls or rotate groups.

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