Gross Motor Games: Coordination + Safety + Endurance

Level 3 develops independence and game design thinking.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

- Large open space (indoors or outdoors)

- Coloured sugar paper circles (red, blue, yellow, green)

- A basket or container for each child

- Soft play balls (various sizes)

- Hula hoops

- Large cardboard box or tunnel

- Music player and upbeat family-friendly music

- Pictures of different family members engaged in active play

Learning Objectives

- Children will demonstrate improved coordination by successfully navigating an obstacle course.

- Children will practise listening skills and following multi step directions related to movement.

- Children will engage in safe physical activity, understanding personal space.

- Children will build endurance by participating in sustained movement activities.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by gathering the children and showing them the pictures of families playing together, discussing different activities they enjoy as a family. Explain that today they will play some fun games that help their bodies grow strong, just like families support each other.

2. Set up the obstacle course: Place coloured circles on the floor (e.g., "Hop on the red circle!"), arrange hula hoops for jumping through, position the cardboard box as a tunnel to crawl through, and have stations with balls to throw into baskets.

3. Demonstrate each part of the obstacle course, emphasizing safe movement and taking turns. For example, "When you crawl through the tunnel, make sure your friends are not too close behind you, like when you walk close to your family members in a crowded place."

4. Play music and have children move through the obstacle course. Encourage them to move at their own pace, celebrating their effort.

5. Introduce a "Family Ball Toss" game: Children take turns tossing soft balls into their individual baskets, practicing aiming and throwing, similar to a parent playing catch with a child.

6. Play a "Follow the Leader" game, with you or a child leading movements that mimic everyday family activities like reaching for things on a high shelf, or "walking" like a baby.

7. Conclude with a stretch and cool-down, discussing how their bodies feel and how getting exercise is good for them. Remind them that moving their bodies is something they can do with their families.

8. Distribute "family movement" badges (simple drawings) for their accomplishments.

Educator Tip

Ensure ample space for movement to avoid collisions. Remind children to be aware of their personal space, explaining it like respecting the space of others in their own home. For children who are hesitant, encourage them to try one station at a time or offer a partner activity, perhaps pairing them with a more confident peer. Encourage them to share what their family does for fun physical activity.

Assessment

Observe children's participation and engagement in the gross motor activities. Note their ability to follow directions, their coordination in navigating the obstacle course, and their understanding of safe movement. Document any instances of children demonstrating self-regulation or helping others.

Educator tip

Use rubric; insist on justification of game rules.

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. Rubric (1–4): coordination, rule-following, stamina, cooperation.

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