Explore Edges

Edges come in many variations in most local environments. Most people, for example, have access to sandbox edges. Such edges are fun to explore and offer many opportunities for play and activity. Remember to focus on play and mastery along the way.

Activity Tips

• Try walking along the edge. Can you stretch out your legs and take giant steps? Does it get easier or harder when you hold your arms out in the air?
• Play 'airplane' by bending forward with one foot back, and try to balance on the other foot. Switch feet and try again – is your balance as good on your left foot as on your right?
• Let the children balance on the edge by walking forward. Do they get further each time? Then you can try balancing on your toes and on your heels.
• Play 'mouse' and take small steps. Try the same by walking backward or sideways. Also vary by walking on your toes and on your heels.
• Always walk with your right foot first, then try with your left foot first. Also, test walking this way backward and sideways.
• Walk back and forth along the edge while holding your hands in different ways. Let the children suggest: hands out to the side, on their hips, on their stomach, up in the air, behind their back, etc.
• Create a small obstacle course by placing stones or other small obstacles on the edge. Walk over them, jump over them, or around them.
• Jump up, down, or over the edge with legs spread, and then try with legs together.
• Jump with feet together up onto the edge, turn around, and jump back down, if the edge is low and safe.

Challenge: Try walking forward and bending your knees with each step.

Extra challenge: Can anyone walk forward and bend their foot down next to the edge with each step?