Tin Can Stilts: High Steps With Homemade Gear

Using large cans and cord, students put together tin can stilts, a traditional toy in many countries, and walk balance courses. It builds arm-leg coordination and balance at a low height.

How to play

1. Check the stilts: rim wrapped in tape, two opposite holes and cord threaded up to hip height (5 min).
2. First steps in place: step up, pull the cords tight and lift the same-side hand and foot together (4 min).
3. 10 m straight line out and back in pairs: one walks, the other walks alongside (5 min).
4. Cone course: zigzag, turn around a cone and step over a chalk line (7 min).
5. Team relay: the team adds up meters walked without stepping off (4 min).

Rules

• Only on flat, dry ground, away from steps and curbs.
• Cords always tight and in hand; if you lose balance, let go and step down.
• No running and no pushing.
• Dented cans or loose rims are out.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: does the course pushing the cans with their hands from the wheelchair.
• Fear or nerves: a partner holds their elbow and the first course is only 3 m.
• Ankle injury: guides the course and counts meters.

Learning goals

• Keep balance by coordinating arms and legs.
• Learn about a traditional homemade toy.
• Look after their own and a partner's safety.

Equipment for a class of 25

• large cans: 30
• cords: 30
• packing tape: 4
• cones: 12

Teacher tip

Punch the holes with a nail and tape the rims yourself before class; students don't cut metal. Large food cans or rigid plastic tubs work. Common mistake: letting the cord go slack when stepping; have the hand pull the can upward.

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