Two Magic Stones to Cross the River

In pairs, one child crosses the river (the space between two ropes) stepping only on two or three beanbag stones, while the partner picks up the stone behind and places it in front so they can move forward. It works balance when shifting from one support to another and teamwork deciding where each stone goes.

How to play

1. Mark the river with two ropes and practice standing on a beanbag with both feet without stepping off (2 min).
2. In pairs: the crosser has two beanbag stones and the helper moves the back one to the front (4 min).
3. Switch roles and cross again (4 min).
4. Now the crosser says where they want the stone: "closer," "farther," "to the side" (3 min).
5. Everyone's across: celebrate and pick up the stones (2 min).

Rules

• I only step on the stones; the river is wet.
• The helper puts the stone where my friend asks.
• If I step in the water, I go back to the last stone and keep going.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child in a wheelchair is the helper calling where each stone goes, or crosses rolling over flat beanbags.
• Visual impairment: the helper places the stone and taps the child's foot to show where it is.
• Less balance: they can cross holding the helper's hand.

Learning goals

• Keep balance moving from one small support to another.
• Cooperate by giving and following directions.
• Choose distances that fit their own stride.

Equipment for a class of 25

• beanbags: 30
• rope: 2

Teacher tip

Use big, flat beanbags that won't slip; on a very smooth floor, play on carpet or outside. Helpers tend to put the stone too far; remind them that "an ant step" is enough.

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