Wheelbarrow Drivers Between the Beds

In pairs, children drive toy wheelbarrows along the paths between garden beds, first empty and then loaded with "pumpkins," weaving through cones and switching drivers. They build arm strength, practice steering while pushing, and take turns.

How to play

1. Show how a wheelbarrow works: grab both handles, lift it a little, and push while looking ahead (2 min).
2. In pairs with one wheelbarrow: one child drives it empty along the paths between beds while the other walks alongside; then switch (3 min).
3. Load two or three "pumpkins" (balls) in the field and wheel them to the basket without dropping any (3 min).
4. Zigzag around cone beds, with a stop at the "gas station" (a hoop) to switch drivers (3 min).
5. Park the wheelbarrows in a row in the shed and put the pumpkins back in the field (1 min).

Rules

• Only pumpkins ride in the wheelbarrow: no people, ever.
• Wheelbarrows go slowly and stay on the path.
• Switch drivers at the gas station.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child carries the pumpkin basket on the lap while a partner pushes the wheelbarrow beside them, or pulls a box on a rope.
• Less strength: use a light plastic wheelbarrow and foam balls.
• Autism: mark the route with arrows on the ground and keep the same partner.

Learning goals

• Push and steer a wheeled object.
• Coordinate arms and legs while keeping the load steady.
• Take turns and share equipment with a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Toy wheelbarrows: 6
• Cones: 10
• Balls: 20
• Baskets: 2

Teacher tip

If you only have two or three wheelbarrows, set up two more stations (cardboard boxes pulled on a rope, baskets carried in arms) and rotate. Check beforehand that the wheels roll well on dirt or sand.

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