Keep the Bucket Full

Age
2-5 years
Child Development
Well-being and belonging (physical activity)
Equipment
Balls
Bucket/container
Physical Activity

This activity aims to develop the fundamental movement skills of locomotion (running) and coordination.

How to Play
  1. The adult has a large number of small balls in a bucket/container, and throws them all over the place as fast as possible.
  2. Encourage the children to run after them and have them place the balls back in the container before it is empty.
  3. Children can only bring back one ball at a time.

Safety:

Make sure they have a clear and safe path the balls without any obstructions in the way.

Provide rules for the children to ensure safety when playing this game:

  1. Do not throw the ball and hit other children.
  2. When retrieving the balls remind children not to step on balls in case they might slip, or run into other children when trying to place the ball back in the container.
Change it up / Alternatives / Additional Options

Adaptations:

  • For children with impairments in flexibility or gross motor skills, encourage them to move as fast as they can, understanding that it may be slower than others. Ensure that the child has enough time to collect a ball and bring it back.
  • For a child with a visual impairment, provide a ball that has a bell in it that they can chase after.
  • If you have a participant who uses a wheelchair, be aware that they may need assistance to pick the ball up off the floor.
  • If you have a child with another type of disability not mentioned above, they may be able to participate in this activity without adaptations or modifications

Source - MEGA