The Wiggly Rope Snake

In this traditional playground game from Spain, the teacher wiggles a long rope along the ground like a snake and children jump over it as it comes near, trying not to let it touch their feet. They practice timing their jumps.

How to play

1. Explain that the rope is a sleepy little snake that moves very slowly along the ground (1 min).
2. The snake is still: jump over it from side to side with feet together (2 min).
3. The teacher moves it slowly side to side while children, in a wide line, jump as it passes (4 min).
4. The snake wakes up and moves a bit faster; if it brushes you, say "Sssss!" and keep playing (4 min).
5. The snake gets tired and curls up; sit down around it (1 min).

Rules

• The rope always stays on the ground.
• I jump when it reaches my feet.
• If it touches me, that's okay—I keep playing.
• I stay in my place in the line.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: lift feet or hands as the rope passes in front of the wheelchair.
• Visual impairment: the teacher calls "Here it comes!" and the rope has large, securely sewn bells.
• Autism: announce speed changes before making them, and let the child play at the end of the line with more room.

Learning goals

• Jump over a moving object.
• Choose the right moment to jump.
• Learn a traditional playground game.

Equipment for a class of 25

• long rope: 1

Teacher tip

Always keep the rope flat on the ground, never at ankle height. If another adult is around, have them hold the other end for wider waves. Tell the kids this is how their grandparents played in the street in Spain.

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