Hula Hoop Harvest Game
Supports agricultural awareness, STEM integration, literacy, and social-emotional development at the IPC Level 2 stage.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Farm
- Learning area: Gross Motor
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Developmentally appropriate objectives aligned to IPC Level 2 for Hula Hoop Harvest Game.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- 5 to 8 hula hoops in assorted colours
- 20 to 30 plastic or plush toy vegetables
- 4 small baskets or bins
- Masking tape for marking start lines
- A whistle or bell for signaling
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate balance and coordination while navigating obstacles.
- Sort objects into categories based on colour or type.
- Follow multi-step directions during a physical group activity.
- Practise spatial awareness by moving within designated boundaries.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Arrange the hula hoops on the floor in a scattered pattern to represent garden plots.
2. Place a variety of toy vegetables inside each hoop.
3. Divide the children into four teams and assign each team a basket at the starting line.
4. Explain that they are farmers who must harvest the crops and bring them back to the barn.
5. Instruct the children that they must jump into each hoop with two feet to collect one vegetable at a time.
6. Model the jumping motion clearly, emphasizing landing softly on the balls of their feet.
7. Signal the start of the harvest with the whistle or bell.
8. Encourage children to return to their team basket, place the item inside, and tag the next teammate.
9. Continue the game until all vegetables have been moved to the baskets.
10. Conclude by having the children count the items in their baskets to see which crops were gathered.
Educator Tip
To differentiate for children who need extra support, allow them to walk or hop on one foot between hoops rather than requiring a two-footed jump. If the group is ready for a challenge, add a rule that they must collect vegetables only in colours that match their specific basket.
Assessment
- Observe if the child maintains balance while jumping into and out of the hoops.
- Note the child ability to follow the sequence of collecting one item before returning to the start.
- Record whether the child successfully sorts the vegetables into the correct basket.
Educator tip
Guided questioning to encourage language, reasoning, and participation. Differentiate for ability levels; incorporate sensory supports; ensure safety.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observation checklist or rubric aligned to developmental stage.