Tin-Can Stilts on Parade

Using stilts made from big cans and string, children learn to walk by lifting the foot and hand on the same side together, first standing still and then along a cone path. It works on balance, hand-foot coordination and an old-fashioned toy.

How to play

1. The teacher shows the stilts, a toy our grandparents played with, and each child checks that the strings reach their hands with arms straight (2 min).
2. Step onto the cans with feet in the middle and pull the strings tight, standing still (2 min).
3. Tiny steps: the string pulls the can up as I lift the foot on the same side (3 min).
4. Walk the cone path in pairs: one on stilts and the other walking alongside (4 min).
5. Switch roles and finish with a slow parade of the whole class (2 min).
6. Put the stilts away in pairs in the box (1 min).

Rules

• Foot and string on the same side lift together.
• Tiny steps, no running.
• If I lose my balance, I hop off the cans.

Variations

Adaptations

• Less balance: lower cans and walking along a wall for support.
• Limited mobility: hold a can in each hand and tap them on the ground in time with a partner's steps.
• Autism: first practice the hand-and-foot motion with the cans on the floor, without stepping on.

Learning goals

• Balance on a small base.
• Coordinate the foot and hand on the same side.
• Get to know a traditional toy.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tin-can stilts (pairs): 13
• cones: 8
• box: 1

Teacher tip

Make them ahead of time from large food cans with no sharp edges (cover the rim with electrical tape) and string threaded through two holes. Keep them no taller than about 4 inches.

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