Learning outcome

The purpose of this activity is to introduce young children to the forward roll.

Equipment Require

Foam Incline Wedge Mat (The best foam wedge for young children is one that is 10 inches at the top to 2 inches at the bottom along a 30-inch length. The wedge should be 18″ wide and can be made by cutting dense foam to the described dimensions or purchased through a physical education catalog equipment company.)

Also needed is a wooden box that is 10 inches high and 18 by 18 inches square for the child to stand on. The box can be built out of plywood.

Description

It is much easier for young children to learn to do a forward roll down an incline than it is on a flat surface. Place the wedge up to the edge of the wooden box. Ask the child to stand on the box and face the incline. The child’s hands should be placed on the wedge a few inches from the child’s feet. Point the fingers forward and slightly bend the knees. Ask the child to put their chin on their chest, raise their bottom in the air, and push off with the feet.

Teacher Role:

The teacher should make sure the child’s head is tucked by placing a hand on the back of the child’s head and gently moving the chin toward the chest. Use the other hand to gently push on the child’s bottom to start the roll. The teacher should make sure the child rolls onto the back and shoulders as opposed to rolling onto the head.

Lack of Equipment:

Some preschools may lack enough equipment to allow all children to practice forward rolls at the same time. If this is the case, rolling might best be taught as a station activity. One child works with the teacher at the polling station while the other children practice jumping, balancing, and or other appropriate station activities.