Chalk Hopscotch

What you need

• chalk
• a bean bag, or a pair of socks rolled into a ball
• a flat surface outside, like a path or patio

How to do it

1. Chalk a row of eight big squares on the ground and write a number in each, 1 to 8.
2. Throw the bean bag and say the number it lands on together.
3. Hop or jump along the squares to fetch it, saying each number as you land, then come back the same way.
4. Take turns throwing, and try hopping on one foot for a square or two when they are ready.

Why it matters

A game with a throw, a number and a turn makes hopping something worth doing, not something to practise.

What they're learning

Hopping

A square or two on one foot is balancing on one leg, plus a push.

Numbers in order

Saying each number as they land puts 1 to 8 in order under their feet.

Rules and turns

Throw, hop, fetch, then it is your go: a game with a few rules to hold on to.

What to look for

Notice them telling you it is your turn, or saying the number before they land on it.

A tip

Draw the squares big, about one grown-up stride each, and play on a dry day so the chalk shows and feet don't slip.

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