MV T4.09First Walking on the Line
One or two children follow the adult along a wide line taped on the floor, walking with each foot landing on the line.
Age 2–3Work 9 of 9 in Walking, Climbing, and Balance
Safety
- The tape lies flat with no lifted edges that could trip a child.
- The floor along the line is clear and dry.
Presentation
- 1
Invite one or two children: 'Come and walk on the line with me.'
- 2
Take off shoes if the room walks the line barefoot. Step onto the line.
- 3
Walk slowly, placing each foot on the line. Do not ask for heel-to-toe yet.
- 4
Look back and invite the children to step on behind you, one at a time, with space between.
- 5
Walk once around the ellipse or to the end of the straight line. Each foot landing on the line is the point of interest.
- 6
Stop and step off together. Let each child walk it again alone if they want.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Walk the line alone
- Walk the line slowly, then faster, following music
- Walk the line carrying a light object in both hands
- Walk the line placing the heel close to the toes
Control of error
The line: the child sees a foot land off it.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Walks the whole line with each foot landing on it
- Keeps space from the person in front
- Slows down when the adult or the music slows
- Chooses to walk the line alone