The Squirrel Hides Acorns in the Tree

Hang hoops vertically (holes in the tree), and squirrels throw their acorns (beanbags) through the hole to save them for winter. It works on overhand and underhand throws to get through a target.

How to play

1. Hang four hoops upright from a stretched rope, or have an adult hold them, and put a basket of acorns in front of each hoop (2 min).
2. Squirrels in small groups take an acorn from the basket and toss it underhand so it goes through the hole in the tree (3 min).
3. Try throwing overhand, hand next to your ear, and choose which works better (4 min).
4. On the other side of the tree, one squirrel gathers the acorns that go through and rolls them back to the group; take turns (3 min).
5. Finish by putting all the acorns away in the basket while the squirrels curl up to sleep through winter (2 min).

Rules

• Throw from the mark.
• No one walks in front of the tree while others are throwing.
• The collecting squirrel waits until the group says "Ready!"
• If the acorn doesn't go in, try again.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: an adult holds a big hoop at wheelchair height and brings it closer.
• Visual impairment: hang a sheet with jingle bells behind the hoop so it rings when an acorn goes through, and someone claps in the center.
• More skill: use small hoops or throw with the non-dominant hand.

Learning goals

• Throw underhand and overhand through a vertical target.
• Choose the most effective type of throw.
• Work as a group and respect the safety zone.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hoops: 4
• rope: 2
• beanbags: 25
• baskets: 4

Teacher tip

Mark the no-go zone in front of and behind the tree with chalk or cones. If you can't hang the hoops, stand them up in a tall cone or against a chair leg.

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