Stretching at the Park Fence
Children hold onto a low park fence or railing and use it for support while they swing their legs, push and rise onto tiptoe. It warms up the body and works on balance with safe support.
How to play
- Find a low stretch of fence and line up, each child in their own spot with both hands holding on (1 min).
- Push the fence as if you want to move it, then let go: 'Strong!... Rest!' (1 min).
- Stand sideways with one hand on the fence and swing the outside leg forward and back like a swing; turn around and switch legs (2 min).
- Face the fence, rise onto tiptoe and lower slowly, then try letting go with one hand for a moment (1 min).
- Let go, take three steps back and stretch your arms up high to finish (1 min).
Rules
- Hands hold the fence; we never climb it.
- Everyone in their own spot, no pushing your neighbor.
- Your leg swings on the outside, away from your friend.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, just pushing and tiptoes with both hands holding on.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, leg swings with one hand and tiptoes letting go of one hand.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, also swing the leg out to the side and hold tiptoes for a count of five without letting go.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: a child in a wheelchair holds the fence and pushes and pulls with the arms, twisting the trunk to each side.
- Visual impairment: an adult guides the child's hand to the fence and tells them where their spot is and who is next to them.
- Lower skill level: keep the leg swing small with both hands on the fence.
Learning goals
- Warm up legs and arms using stable support.
- Improve balance on one foot and on tiptoe.
- Use park equipment safely.
Teacher tip
Check beforehand that the fence is sturdy, clean and has no spikes or splinters. Leave an arm's length between children: if they're squeezed together, a leg swing turns into a kick.
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