How to Create Obstacle Courses for Preschool Gymnastic Lessons

Creating an obstacle course for a gymnastic class for preschoolers is one way to help young children develop gross motor skills while having fun. An obstacle course can have areas where children crawl, do tumbling and jump. It can improve coordination and agility and provides good exercise.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Keep in mind preschool children are just developing the skills needed to be a gymnast. Gymnastic lessons for young children should focus on developing coordination, balance and flexibility. Set up a course that helps children develop those skills.

2. Determine how many stations you want to include in your obstacle course. Be sure you have enough room for each area. Consider having four to six stations.

3. Setup an area where children can practice forward or backward rolls. This is a basic gymnastic move most preschoolers will be able to do. Place mats down to provide a soft area.

4. Create a station where preschoolers can jump. Use a foam pit or a ball pit. Consider using a springboard. Instruct children to jump on the board and into the pit.

5. Have children crawl under a rope tied between two chairs. If available, use a play tunnel for children to crawl through.

6. Add an area to work on balance. Gymnasts need to develop good balance. Have children walk across a balance beam close to the ground.

7. Consider having a mini trampoline for children to practice jumping. Keep safety in mind and have foam cushions surrounding the trampoline.

Tips & Warnings

• Change things around. Add or take away a station. Change the order of the stations to add variety.
• Have an adult spotter at the tumbling station to teach children proper techniques for doing forward or backward rolls.
• Tell the children to go through the course several times to improve motor skills.
• Be sure children are evenly spaced while going through the obstacle course. This will reduce the chances of the kids bumping into each other and getting hurt.