Obstacle Relay
Family sets a simple obstacle course and races through it in a relay, a classic energy-burner.
- Age5 to 8 years
- Time15 to 30 minutes
- EnergyVery active
- CostFree
- WhereIndoors or out
- Prep15 min
A movement game where the family sets up a simple course of things to go over, under, around, and through, then takes turns racing through it as a relay. A strong energy outlet using items already at home.
How to do it
- Set up a simple course using safe household items, such as cushions to jump over, a chair to crawl under, and a spot to run around.
- Walk your child through the course once so they know the order and what to do at each station.
- Have players take turns running the course, tagging the next person to go for the relay.
- Cheer each other on and time a lap if your child enjoys a challenge.
- Rearrange the stations for a fresh course whenever it gets too easy.
What you need
- Cushions
- Space
Signs it is working
Your child moves through each station in order and completes the course. They wait for the tag before starting their turn. They stay energetic and ask to run it again.
If it is not quite clicking
A station is too hard and stalls your child: Simplify it (step over instead of jump) so they keep flowing. They skip stations in their rush: Slow the pace and do a walk-through lap together. Waiting for a turn is hard: Keep the course short so turns come around quickly, or run alongside them.
Make it yours
Younger, 5 years: Use two or three easy stations, walk it rather than race, and guide them through each one. Older, 7-8 years: Add more stations, a timer, or challenges like balancing a beanbag while going through. Group: Run it as a true relay in teams, or let each child design one station.
Try this with your child.
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