Jump, Hop and Balance: Fun Moves
A fun early-years movement lesson: learn to jump with two feet, hop on one foot, and balance like a flamingo. Easy, safe moves for little kids.
Key takeaways
- Bend your knees and push off with both feet to jump
- Hopping means jumping on just one foot
- Hold your arms out wide to help you balance
- Always have a grown-up nearby and play on a soft, safe spot
Let's get moving!
Your body loves to move. Today we will jump, hop, and balance. These are super fun!
First, find a safe, soft spot. Ask a grown-up to play with you.
How to jump
Jumping is going up in the air with both feet.
- Stand up tall.
- Bend your knees a little.
- Push off the floor with both feet.
- Land soft, with bendy knees.
Boing! You jumped! Can you jump up high? Can you jump like a bouncy frog? 🐸
How to hop
Hopping is jumping on one foot.
- Lift one foot off the floor.
- Hop, hop, hop on the other foot.
- Now try the other side!
Can you hop like a bunny? 🐰 Take it slow. It is okay to hold a grown-up's hand.
How to balance
Balance means staying still without tipping over.
Stand on one foot. Hold your arms out wide, like wings.
Can you stand like a flamingo? 🦩 Count to three: 1, 2, 3!
Holding your arms out helps you stay steady. Looking at one spot in front of you helps too.
Fun moves to try
- Jump over a flat scarf on the floor.
- Hop to a toy and back.
- Balance like a tree, very still and tall. 🌳
Move slow and have fun. Take a rest when you feel tired.
Great job, mover!
You can jump, hop, and balance now. Your legs are getting strong!
Next, play Fun with Balls: Throw, Catch, Roll. Or learn why we stretch first in Why Warming Up Matters.
Quick quiz
Test yourself and earn XP
How many feet do you use to jump up high?
To jump up, you push off with both feet at the same time.
What is hopping?
Hopping means you jump using only one foot.
What helps you balance like a flamingo?
Arms out wide help keep your body steady so you don't tip over.
Before you jump and hop, what should you do?
A grown-up keeps you safe, and a soft floor is best for jumping.
FAQ
Many children can hop on one foot around ages 3 to 4, but everyone learns at their own speed.
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