Walk the Plank to the Island
The pirates have to reach Treasure Island by walking the ship's plank (a low gym bench) without falling into the sea. They practice balancing on a narrow surface and building confidence in their bodies.
How to play
- The teacher shows the ship: two ropes on the floor as easy planks and two benches with mats around them as the sea (2 min).
- Practice on the floor rope: one foot in front of the other with arms out like a balancing pirate (3 min).
- Climb onto the bench plank and walk slowly across to the island (3 min).
- Plank tricks: cross sideways, looking at a pretend parrot, or with a hook arm on the hip (3 min).
- Reach the island, hop down onto the mat and shout "Land ho!" (2 min).
- Pirates rest sitting on the island's sand (1 min).
Rules
- Only one pirate on the plank at a time.
- I walk slowly and look at the plank.
- If I wobble, I step off and climb back on.
- Whoever is waiting stays in the harbor, no pushing.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, only floor ropes, and the bench while holding an adult's hand.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, the bench on their own with an adult beside them.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, the bench with tricks (sideways, a one-foot pause in the middle) and a jump at the end.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: travel the floor plank marked by two wide parallel ropes in the wheelchair or with a walker.
- Visual impairment: an adult walks alongside with a hand ready and the plank has a different texture than the floor.
- Fear of height: do the whole course on the floor ropes and climb the bench only when ready.
Learning goals
- Keep balance while walking on a narrow surface.
- Use the arms to stay balanced.
- Build confidence to meet a motor challenge.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Gym benches: 2
- Gym mats: 4
- Jump ropes: 2
Teacher tip
Always have an adult next to each bench and mats covering both sides. The key cue is "eyes on the plank": the typical mistake is watching classmates and losing balance.
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