Balloon Bounce
This requires some upfront prep but it’s worth it! You’ll need some inflated balloons and a homemade “paddle” for each player. To make a paddle, you’ll need a paper plate, some masking tape, and a “handle,” — a big craft stick, a paint stirrer, or even a sturdy plastic fork.
- Tape the handle to the back of the plate and write the player’s name on the plate.
- Tell the students that there’s one rule. Only the teacher can touch the balloon with their hands. Everyone else can only touch it with the paddle. If it’s on the floor, scoop it up with the paddle.
- Give the players a challenge that’s appropriate to their skill level and your classroom space. Here are some possibilities:
Roll the balloon, passing it from player to player. Use your paddle like a croquet mallet.
Have a relay race where students walk across the room, balancing a balloon on their plate, then bounce it to another student, who carries it back. Let students figure out ways to make the transfer.
Don’t let the balloon touch the floor. Bounce it up in the air with your paddle.
Invent your own games. Balloon Tennis! Balloon Racquetball!
- Don’t forget to remind your students that these games are all about forces and how hard you hit the balloon!
