The Giant Tube Necklace

In groups, children thread paper towel tubes onto a thick rope to make a giant necklace that the whole group then wears together. It builds two-handed coordination for threading and group teamwork.

How to play

1. The teacher shows how to poke the rope tip through the tube and push the tube all the way down (2 min).
2. In groups of five or six, one child holds the rope end and the others take turns threading tubes (3 min).
3. Switch who holds the rope and keep threading until the necklace is long (3 min).
4. If the tubes are painted, make patterns: one red, one blue (2 min).
5. The teacher ties the ends and the whole group steps inside the giant necklace and walks together holding on (1 min).
6. Take the tubes off one by one and put them away (1 min).

Rules

• I thread one tube and pass the rope to the next friend.
• We hold the rope; we don't pull it.
• We wait for a friend to finish their tube.

Variations

Adaptations

• Less dexterity: thread onto a thin pool noodle or broomstick instead of rope so it doesn't bend.
• Limited mobility: thread while seated as a classmate holds the rope in front.
• Visual impairment: use tubes with different textures (sandpaper, fabric) to make patterns by touch.

Learning goals

• Coordinate both hands to thread.
• Follow and create simple patterns.
• Build something together while taking turns.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Paper towel tubes: 50
• Thick rope: 4

Teacher tip

Stiffen the rope tip with tape like a shoelace aglet; without it, anyone would get frustrated. Have kids paint the tubes two or three colors in art the week before.

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