Skipping is an activity that is a rite of passage for young
children. It is, however, not always an
easy skill for children to master.
Initially, it helps to have children simply work on strengthening their
feet and ankles so they can push off the ground. Working on jumping (two feet) and hopping
(one foot) is a good place to start. Later,
they can start the skipping action with the cues “step, hop, change feet, step,
hop, change feet” and continuing the pattern, working on a rhythmical
sequence. Remember, children have a
dominant side when stepping and hopping, so working on alternating sides is
very important. Otherwise, they will do “step, hop, step step, hop, step step,
hop”, always hopping on the same foot.
It’s fine to start slowly and then progress to a faster, more fluid pace.
Below are some fun activities that work on jumping and hopping, along with the
concepts of right and left. All you need for this activity is sidewalk chalk, a big
pair of shoes to trace around, and a driveway, patio, or sidewalk. Although I have
drawn my pattern in a straight line, you can be creative in the patterns you draw.
Even if your child can already skip, this activity also helps with speed and agility.
Jump and hop patterns at a slower pace.
Jump and hop patterns at a faster pace.
Variations of the jump and hop patterns.
