Step and Hop: Learning to Skip
Children learn skipping step by step (step and hop on one foot, then the other), a move they'll use constantly in elementary school games. It builds alternating arm-and-leg coordination and rhythm.
How to play
- Walk while clapping the beat: one, two, one, two (1 min).
- Standing in place: step on one foot and hop on that same foot; then the other side (2 min).
- Slowly across the playground: step-hop on one foot, step-hop on the other, saying "step and hop" (2 min).
- Add the arms, swinging like when we walk (1 min).
- Skip happily to the line and walk back (1 min).
Rules
- Step and hop on the same foot.
- Then it's the other foot's turn.
- We go slowly: it's not a race.
Variations
Easier
For 4-year-olds, gallop like ponies and try step-hop standing in place, without traveling.
Standard
For 5-year-olds, skip slowly across the playground saying "step and hop".
Harder
For confident 5-year-olds, skip around cones or change direction on a clap.
Adaptations
- Less coordination: practice holding the teacher's hand while the teacher calls the rhythm.
- Hearing loss: show the beat with visible claps and have a buddy in front to copy.
- Limited mobility: in a wheelchair, alternate raising one arm and the other to "step and hop".
Learning goals
- Begin skipping with alternating feet.
- Coordinate arm swing with the legs.
- Follow a steady beat.
Teacher tip
Plenty of 5-year-olds can't skip yet: that's normal and it comes with practice. Say it out loud ("step and hop") and model it slowly, first with your back to them so they copy the same side.
PatioLab has "Step and Hop: Learning to Skip" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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