Touch the Hanging Stars
Hang cardstock stars from a rope at different heights; children crouch like a spring and jump up to touch them with their hand. They practice vertical jumping and using an arm swing.
How to play
- We're springs: crouch down slowly and stretch up suddenly, without leaving the floor yet (2 min).
- Show the hanging stars: some low, some medium, some high (1 min).
- Each child picks a star and jumps with feet together to touch it with a hand (5 min).
- After touching it three times, try a slightly higher star (4 min).
- Jump all at once to "light up" the sky and land like ninjas (2 min).
Rules
- I jump up, not forward.
- I touch the star—I don't pull it.
- I land in my spot with bent knees.
- I choose the star I want.
Variations
Easier
At age 3, very low stars they can almost reach on tiptoes.
Standard
At age 4, medium stars with a two-footed jump.
Harder
At age 5, high stars, reaching with one arm and then the other.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: low stars at wheelchair height to touch by stretching the arms.
- Visual impairment: stars with a large, securely tied bell that rings when touched.
- Less skill: may take a small step before jumping, or touch the low stars.
Learning goals
- Jump upward with feet together.
- Use an arm swing for power.
- Choose and meet personal challenges.
Equipment for a class of 25
- long rope: 1
- cardstock stars: 15
- masking tape: 1
Teacher tip
Tie the rope loosely between two fixed points and space the stars well apart so two kids don't jump in the same spot. Tape the stars on firmly so they don't come loose when touched.
PatioLab has "Touch the Hanging Stars" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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