Young children are compelled to move in explosive ways. Skipping, jumping and hopping actions can be incorporated into group times and physical games. Early childhood educators can encourage children to think about and label their movements.
EYLF Learning Outcomes
Jumping, skipping and hopping are major gross motor movements learned in early childhood (3.2). They align with the Early Years Learning Framework and help children gain learning dispositions such as confidence, commitment, enthusiasm, and persistence (4.1).
Learning experiences
Move in different ways
Children can try moving in these ways:
- two-footed jumps
- hopping on one foot
- jumping forwards, backwards, and sideways
- star jumps
- tuck jumps
- high jumps and vertical jumps
- jumping over small objects
- leaping like a frog
- bounding
- skipping with and without a rope
- hop, skip and jump
- and doing long jumps with a run-up.
Play physical games
Children’s games often include jumping and hopping movements. Teach children to play hopscotch, leapfrog, or sack races. Hold an athletics challenge. Who can jump the highest and the furthest? Who can perform the most star jumps?
Get creative with skipping ropes
Children who are competent with a skipping rope can try new challenges. They can turn their own short rope or jump a long rope held by educators or friends. They can try skipping on one foot, holding hands with a partner, and alternating feet.
Research animal movements
Encourage children's inquiry by asking them to research animal movements. Start by brainstorming animals they are familiar with, like rabbits, kangaroos and frogs. What other animals hop and bound? Why do they move in these ways? Use the internet to research answers to their questions and watch animal videos.