Tightrope Walkers on the Pole

Poles laid on the floor become circus tightropes, and children, as tightrope walkers, walk along them in different ways. They practice balance on the move and build self-confidence by tackling small challenges.

How to play

1. Lay the poles on the floor, some on their own and some end to end making long, zigzagging ropes (1 min).
2. With circus music in the background, tightrope walkers walk along the pole with arms out, heel to toe (3 min).
3. New tricks: walk sideways, on tiptoe, with a pretend ball on your head (3 min).
4. Partner tightrope walkers: one walks the pole while the other holds their hand from the floor; then switch (3 min).
5. The big show: everyone picks a favorite trick and performs it at the same time while the teacher announces: “And now, the amazing tightrope walkers!” (2 min).
6. Take a bow for the audience and sit down (2 min).

Rules

• If I fall off the rope, I climb back on where I fell.
• One walker per pole, or one behind another without pushing.
• My arms help me: I stretch them out like an airplane.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a child in a wheelchair can be the circus announcer or follow the pole keeping one wheel on the line.
• Visual impairment: walk barefoot to feel the pole with the feet, holding a buddy's hand.
• Less balance: replace the pole with tape on the floor or a wide, low bench.

Learning goals

• Improve balance while moving.
• Build confidence by tackling small challenges.
• Use the arms to balance.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Plastic poles: 15
• Music

Teacher tip

Round poles roll: if you can, tape each end down or use flat poles. Encourage children to look at the end of the pole, not at their feet.

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