Log Scramble
What you need
- a low log at the park or in the woods, no higher than their knee, dry and lying still
- closed shoes with a good grip
How to do it
- At the park, find a low log and press on it with your foot to feel it is dry and steady.
- Let them climb up their own way, hands first if they like, with you right beside the log.
- Walk alongside as they step or shuffle along, a hand out if they want it.
- Let them choose their own way down, then find another low log.
Why it matters
A log has no steps or rails, so they work out for themselves how to get up, along and off, using hands, knees and feet however suits them.
What they're learning
- Climbing up
- Hands, knees and feet working out how to get on top.
- Balance
- Stepping along a round, uneven top.
- Getting down
- Choosing their own way off: a step, a sit or a slide down.
What to look for
Watch for them testing the log with a hand or a foot before they lean their weight on it.
A tip
Choose logs that are low, dry and lying still: skip any that roll or wobble, are wet or mossy, or have broken branches sticking out. Stay within arm's reach and let them climb on by themselves rather than lifting them up.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: sit astride the log and shuffle along it together
Harder: step from one low log to another lying right next to it, with your hand out
