Parachute Language Games
To develop listening, turn-taking, and responding to instructions through collaborative parachute play.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Communication & Language
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Follows group instructions
- Responds to colour commands
- Participates in collaborative activity
- Listens and waits for their turn
Materials
- Play parachute (child-sized)
- Soft balls to bounce on parachute
- Music player (optional)
Instructions
Give clear, simple instructions: 'Hold the edge! Now shake it gently… now shake it fast! Can you make big waves?' Build complexity gradually.
Use colour instructions: 'If you're holding red, run underneath and swap places! Ready? Red—go!' Children must listen for their colour.
Add counting: 'Let's lift the parachute up high! One… two… three… UP! Now down. One, two, three, down!' Combine language with action.
Celebrate listening: 'You heard me say red and you ran! Brilliant listening! Now let's try—if you're holding blue…'