The Cup Booth at the Fair

We set up a fair booth: cup pyramids sit on a bench, and from the line children toss beanbags to knock them over; then they become the booth workers and set them back up. They practice aiming at mid height and play a game they know from local fairs and festivals.

How to play

1. We talk about fairs: who has seen the knock-down-the-cans game? Today we're building one with cups (2 min).
2. We split into roles: one group are booth workers who build the pyramids, the other are visitors who throw (1 min).
3. Visitors throw two beanbags each in quick turns, and the booth workers cheer every cup that falls (5 min).
4. We switch roles: visitors become booth workers and rebuild the pyramids (5 min).
5. Together we gather the beanbags and stack the cups away (2 min).

Rules

• Booth workers step to the side before anyone throws.
• I throw my two beanbags and it's the next kid's turn.
• Building is part of the game too.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the cups go on the floor and the child throws from a chair; as a booth worker they build on a table at their height.
• Hearing impairment: show the role switch with an "open" and "closed" sign.
• Less dexterity: use a bigger ball or step one pace closer.

Learning goals

• Throw at a raised target.
• Take on roles in a fair game.
• Respect classmates' safety space.

Equipment for a class of 25

• gym bench: 2
• plastic cups: 40
• beanbags: 25

Teacher tip

Leave a clear corridor between the throwing line and the bench, and have booth workers wait to the side, never behind the bench. Ring a little bell: "Booth open!" to throw and "Booth closed!" to rebuild.

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