Tug of War

🎯 Objective:
To pull the opposing team across a center line using a rope. Great for teamwork, strength, coordination, and energy release.

🔧 Setup:

• Use a long rope (soft grip if possible).

• Mark a clear center line on the ground using cones, chalk, or tape.

• Tie a scarf to the centre of the rope as a marker

• Add two win lines about 1.5–2 meters each side of the center.

🕹️ How to Play:

• Divide into two equal teams in numbers and strength.

• Line them up holding the rope evenly on either side of the center line.

• On the signal “3…2…1…GO!” both teams pull.

• First team to pull the scarf  past the win marker wins the round.

• Can be played best of 3.

🛟 Safety Tips:

• Ensure all players hold with two hands and never wrap the rope around hands or body.

• Use shoes with grip.

• Encourage a low stance and bent knees.

• One coach should always supervise closely to pause if needed.

🐣 Easier Variants for Younger Children:

• Use a lightweight rope or resistance band.

• Play 1v1 or 2v2 using cones to mark a zone.

• Introduce a Teddy Tug: tie a teddy or plush toy to the center of the rope for themed fun.

• Try “Friendly Tug”: no winners, just teams pulling the rope back and forth across a midline to build coordination and laughter.

‍ ‍Smash the Wall 🧱🎾🏰

‍ ‍🎥https://youtu.be/h38KZ5lFg28?si=LF5BfbctcfVbI4DQ ‍

‍ ‍📝 Setup & Explanation‍ ‍

• Line the children up at a safe distance from the wall.

• Sit them down and explain the rules clearly before starting.

• Build a “wall” out of traffic cones:

  • Tallest cones at the back

  • Quickly build tall towers by using circular cones between tall cones

  • Smallest at the front‍ ‍

‍ ‍

🏓 How to Play

‍ ‍

1. Each child dribbles their big inflatable ball along the ground with their racket towards the wall.

2. When they reach the wall/ hitting line, they whack their ball to knock down as many cones as possible.

3. They leave their ball there, collect a new one, and repeat until attention starts to wander. Coach recycles balls to start

4. To finish: let kids kick or whack down the wall (with or without balls).

‍ ‍‍ ‍

🔁 Progressions

‍ ‍

• Create a hitting line/ move the hitting line further back so children have further to aim

• Encourage children pick ball up and let bounce before hitting forehand (in air rather than floor); switch to backhands/ serves

• Add a time challenge: how many cones can they knock down in 30 seconds?

• Make it team-based: two teams try to knock down their half of the wall first.‍

‍ ‍🪶 Feathers (Simplifications)‍ ‍

• Let children carry the ball to the wall if dribbling is too hard.

• Use smaller gaps between cones so they’re easier to hit.

• Have parents or assistants help guide the ball with the child’s racket.

• Let really little children just hit the cones over without using ball at all.‍

⚠️ Safety Notes‍ ‍

• Remind children to keep a safe distance while others are hitting.

• Tell parents to help monitor their child’s spacing.

• Be careful of potential bumps from rackets or cones.‍‍‍

‍ ‍

🎾 Smash the Wall – Seasonal Themes‍ ‍

🎄 Christmas – Smash the Christmas Chimney 🎅🎁
The wall becomes a chimney made of stacked presents (cones in red, green, gold).
🎯 Goal: Break the chimney so Santa can deliver the gifts!
Swap inflatable balls for "snowballs" (white balloons or foam balls).
Finish with a fun “snowball fight” by letting the kids knock over cones however they like.‍‍ ‍

🐣 Easter – Smash the Easter Egg Tower 🐰🥚
The wall becomes a tower of colourful Easter eggs (brightly coloured cones).
🎯 Goal: Crack the giant Easter egg wall to reveal the hidden chocolate inside!
Use egg-shaped beanbags or pastel-coloured foam balls.
Final round: kids roll giant eggs (balls) to knock down the "tower."

‍ ‍‍

🎃 Halloween – Smash the Haunted House 👻🏚️
The wall is now a spooky haunted house built of ghostly cones (white + black + orange).
🎯 Goal: Break down the haunted house before the monsters escape!
Add Halloween music and decorate cones with eyes or cobwebs.
Coach can wear a witch or skeleton hat for extra effect!

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

💘 Valentine’s – Smash the Heart Wall 💘🏹
Make a heart-shaped wall or decorate cones with hearts/stickers.
🎯 Goal: Knock down the "Wall of Hearts" to release the trapped love messages inside!
Use pink and red balls or balloons.
Final round: shout “Love Attack!” and let all children charge and knock down the wall together.

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

👩 Mother’s Day / 👨 Father’s Day – Smash the Chore Tower 🧹🛠️
Each cone represents a silly "chore" (e.g., “Do the dishes,” “Make lunch,” etc.).
🎯 Goal: Help mum/dad by smashing through all the chores so they can rest!
Add a funny story intro: “Let’s clear all the jobs before Mum/Dad gets home!”
Encourage kids to yell out a chore before smashing each cone.

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

SERVES AND SHIELDS 🛡️

Focus: Split-step, anticipation, blocking, serving and returning
Ages: Titans or Troopers
Duration: 6–10 mins

🎤 Coach Script / Setup

“Today you are defenders — you’re using your rackets as shields to block incoming balls. Can you protect yourself like a superhero or a knight?”

• Space out children across the playing area.

• Each child holds a racket in front of them (two hands if possible), standing in split-step position (knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, alert).

• Coaches, parents, or older children act as “servers” (or attackers).

• Use foam balls and serve gently toward the children’s bodies (belly height or legs).

• Children must react quickly and block the ball using the sweet spot of their racket — no swinging, just controlled blocks.

• Encourage a mini jump or hop (split-step) just as the server makes contact with the ball.

🪶 Feathers (for younger / less confident children):

• Let children catch the ball with their hands first to practice tracking.

• Use larger softballs or balloons for slower movement.

• Parents can kneel beside them and help guide racket to ball.

• Have them stand closer to the server to reduce ball speed.

⚡️ Progressions (for older / confident children):

• Get some of the kids to serve

• Decrease the distance between servers and the blockers.

• Encourage quicker split-step reactions and back to the ready position.

• Add directional blocking — bring servers 360 degrees from all directions

• Try team version: Line of blockers vs. 1–2 servers, then rotate.

• Last man standing! Last person to get hit wins

• Introduce scoring: 1 point for each successful block; swap roles after 1 minute.

IMPORTANT: IF KIDS ARE HITTING, YOU MUST USE SOFT BALLS AND MAKE SURE THEY ARE FULLY SPACED OUT TO MINIMISE RISK OF IMPACT.

SERVES AND SHIELDS 🛡️

Focus: Split-step, anticipation, blocking, serving and returning
Ages: Titans or Troopers
Duration: 6–10 mins

🎤 Coach Script / Setup

“Today you are defenders — you’re using your rackets as shields to block incoming balls. Can you protect yourself like a superhero or a knight?”

• Space out children across the playing area.

• Each child holds a racket in front of them (two hands if possible), standing in split-step position (knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, alert).

• Coaches, parents, or older children act as “servers” (or attackers).

• Use foam balls and serve gently toward the children’s bodies (belly height or legs).

• Children must react quickly and block the ball using the sweet spot of their racket — no swinging, just controlled blocks.

• Encourage a mini jump or hop (split-step) just as the server makes contact with the ball.

🪶 Feathers (for younger / less confident children):

• Let children catch the ball with their hands first to practice tracking.

• Use larger softballs or balloons for slower movement.

• Parents can kneel beside them and help guide racket to ball.

• Have them stand closer to the server to reduce ball speed.

⚡️ Progressions (for older / confident children):

• Get some of the kids to serve

• Decrease the distance between servers and the blockers.

• Encourage quicker split-step reactions and back to the ready position.

• Add directional blocking — bring servers 360 degrees from all directions

• Try team version: Line of blockers vs. 1–2 servers, then rotate.

• Last man standing! Last person to get hit wins

• Introduce scoring: 1 point for each successful block; swap roles after 1 minute.

IMPORTANT: IF KIDS ARE HITTING, YOU MUST USE SOFT BALLS AND MAKE SURE THEY ARE FULLY SPACED OUT TO MINIMISE RISK OF IMPACT.

Run The Gauntlet

https://youtu.be/wAqA4ptPoxw?si=j18RtjVKxpA3ftbV

🎯 Purpose:Fun game to burn energy and keep kids engaged at the end of a session.

🧠 Set-up

🏟️ Use a hall, court or open indoor space

🎯 Mark out a channel or corridor down the middle using cones, lines or throw-down markers

🎾 Scatter a pile of soft balls or foam balls to one side

🚀 How to Play

🧒 Children line up at one end of the corridor

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents kneel or stand along both sides of the corridor, holding soft balls

On “Go!” 👉 children run, skip or jump through the gauntlet

👨‍👩‍👦 Parents gently roll balls across the corridor, aiming to “tag” kids below the knees

⛔ If a child is hit — they freeze for 3 seconds or do a silly dance, then continue!

🔁 Progressions & Variations

‍ ‍🔄 Swap roles: Parents run, kids roll

👟 Coaches run while kids roll and cheer!

🏃‍♂️ Add movement types: hopping, crab walk, skipping

⏱️ Add a “timer” challenge — can the group beat the clock?

👶 Feathers (Adaptations for Younger Kids)

🧸 Allow kids to walk slowly at first

🙋 Use only 1–2 balls at a time to avoid chaos

🪄 Let them hold hands with a parent or assistant the first time

💡 Coach Tips

🎉 Keep the energy fun — make it dramatic! 📣 Get kids to shout out silly chants as they run (e.g. “Can’t catch me!”) 👏 Big round of applause at the end for bravery!

 Adaptations & Feathers:

For Younger Kids (ages 4–6):

• Each child has 3 lives.

• Give “shields” (rackets held out front) to help defend.

• Allow throwing the ball back in if striking is too hard.

• Use a tee to drop-feed if struggling with timing.

For Older Kids (ages 7+):

• Must hit using backhands only, or serve-only challenges.

• Coaches or eliminated kids can hit from a greater distance. From the ring to increase difficultly

• Set time limits per round for intensity.

Bonus Feathers:

• Let eliminated players earn a “life” back with a challenge (e.g., rally 5 shots with a coach).

🏆 Winning Moment:

• Crown the last child “King or Queen of the Court” – give them a fun token like a toy crown or wristband.

Seasonal themed variations for your game “👑 King or Queen of the Court”, designed to keep the gameplay fresh and festive while retaining the structure and key coaching goals:

🎄 **Christmas – “Santa’s Sleigh Dodge” 🛷🎅🎁

🎯 Setup: Kids are elves in Santa’s sleigh loading zone, dodging incoming falling presents (soft balls) from mischievous snowmen (coaches outside the ring).
🎅 Out? You become a helper elf, feeding more “presents” from outside the ring.
🧝‍♂️ Last elf standing becomes Chief Elf and gets a jingle bell prize!

🐣 **Easter – “Egg Arena!” 🐰🥚

🎯 Setup: Players are dodging falling chocolate eggs (foam balls) launched by the Easter Bunny's helpers.
🥚 Out? They become egg-launchers!
🌟 Bonus: Catch a golden egg (yellow foam ball) to earn an extra life!

🎃 **Halloween – “Pumpkin Panic!” 🎃👻

🎯 Setup: The ring becomes a haunted graveyard!
Kids dodge haunted pumpkins (orange balls) thrown by ghosts outside the ring.
👻 If you’re “haunted,” you become a ghost too!
🧙‍♀️ Last survivor becomes the Pumpkin Prince/Princess and earns a spooky sticker!

💘 **Valentine’s – “Cupid’s Ring” 💘🏹

🎯 Setup: Kids are in the “Heart Arena,” dodging Cupid’s arrows (soft balls in pink/red).
💝 If hit, they become Cupid’s helpers on the outside.
🕊️ Optional twist: players inside have to hold a “love letter” (beanbag) and protect it from being knocked out of their hands!

👩‍👧‍👦 **Mother’s Day – “Breakfast Dash!” 🍳☕

🎯 Setup: Children are serving imaginary breakfast to mum – don’t spill it!
Balls = flying croissants or cups of tea thrown by “hungry family members.”
🍞 If you drop it, join the family and start lobbing more breakfast in!
👑 Last one = “Head Chef of the Court!”

👨‍👦‍👦 **Father’s Day – “Tool Shed Scramble!” 🔧🧰

🎯 Setup: Kids are dodging falling tools in dad’s messy garage (balls = hammers, spanners, etc.).
🧰 Once hit, they become helpers, tossing more tools in.
🏆 Winner becomes “Super Sidekick” and gets a pretend wrench (trophy)!

🏆 Finishing Ideas

• Play upbeat music to finish
• Let the last round be just for fun — mix up teams or combine everyone for a MEGA sandwich run!
• Award wristbands/stickers to all participants — focus on teamwork, not just winning

🎉 Seasonal Variations

🎄 Christmas Dash – "Santa's Delivery Race"
• Swap beanbags for small wrapped presents or stuffed stockings
• Use cones shaped like Christmas trees 🎄
• Story: “You’re Santa’s elves — deliver the presents without dropping them!”
• Add sleigh bell sound effects or play Christmas music

🎃 Halloween Havoc – "Pumpkin Panic Relay"
• Use orange cones and mini pumpkins (or orange balls)
• Story: “You’re racing through a spooky forest to deliver the magical pumpkins before the witch wakes up!”
• Add cobweb decorations or play spooky music 🎃👻

🥚 Easter Hop – "Egg Hunt Dash"
• Use colourful eggs (plastic or foam) balanced on rackets
• Set out “Easter nests” (hoops) for them to deliver eggs into
• Story: “The Easter Bunny needs your help hiding eggs all over the court!” 🐰

💘 Valentine's Race – "Heart to Heart"
• Replace beanbags with red foam hearts ❤️
• Players pair up for the sandwich race – “Spread the love as a team!”
• Add a “Cupid Challenge” — hit a foam arrow (cone) down the lane with the racket

🌷 Mother’s Day – "Flower Dash"
• Each child delivers a foam flower to a big cone marked “Mum”
• Use soft music and keep it gentle – “Let’s run carefully so we don’t squish the petals!” 💐
• Parents can join in and receive a “thank you flower” at the end

🛠 Father’s Day – "Tool Time Relay"
• Beanbags = “tools,” buckets = “toolboxes”
• Kids pretend they’re racing to fix something — bonus points for sound effects!
• Add a “high five Dad” station before tagging the next player 👋🔧

 Relay Races 🎽 – “The Great Tennis Dash!” 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️🎾💨

🎬 Story Script Intro:
“Welcome to the Great Tennis Dash! 🏁 The tennis track is open, and it’s time for the fastest, most skilful team to race to the summit! But beware — it’s not just about speed… you’ll need balance, teamwork, and racket control to complete each challenge. Are you ready? Let’s GO!”

🧠 Purpose:

• Build agility, balance, coordination
• Reinforce racket skills in motion
• Encourage teamwork and fun competition

🏗 Set-Up:

• Divide children into 2–4 teams lined up behind markers on one side of the court/hall
• Use cones to mark lanes and turning points at the far end
• Each variation uses a different piece of equipment
• Use music or a whistle to start each race

🟢 Relay Options:

🎈 1. Balloon Tapping Race (indoors)
• Each child taps a balloon up in the air using their racket while moving to the far cone and back
• Optional: If it hits the floor — freeze for 3 seconds before continuing!
• Great for light movement and concentration

🥄 2. Egg & Spoon (Beanbag Balance)
• Balance a beanbag on the racket and walk/run to the cone and back
• Emphasise slow, steady hands
• Try rally stance and soft hands

🏑 3. Hockey Dribble Race
• Use a football or foam ball and dribble with racket around a cone and back
• Players must keep the ball under control
• Use both sides of the racket for more challenge

🥪 4. Sandwich Race (Team Balance Challenge)
• Player 1 places beanbag/ball on their racket
• Player 2 sandwiches it by placing their racket on top
• They must run together holding the “sandwich” across the court and back
• Add more runners to the sandwich with each round — soon 4–5 children running together!

🪶 Feathers – Easier Variations (For Younger Tots):

• Shorten the running distance
• Allow walking only
• Let parents/assistants run alongside
• Use larger items (e.g. foam balls instead of beanbags) for easier balance
• Skip “return run” and tag next player directly

⚡ Progressions – For Older Kids:

• Add timed rounds — which team completes most laps in 2 minutes?
• Add a small jump or obstacle midway through the course
• Make them switch hands on the return run
• Silent Race – no talking allowed or you freeze for 5 seconds

🏆 Finishing Ideas

• Play upbeat music to finish
• Let the last round be just for fun — mix up teams or combine everyone for a MEGA sandwich run!
• Award wristbands/stickers to all participants — focus on teamwork, not just winning

🎉 Seasonal Variations

🎄 Christmas Dash – "Santa's Delivery Race"
• Swap beanbags for small wrapped presents or stuffed stockings
• Use cones shaped like Christmas trees 🎄
• Story: “You’re Santa’s elves — deliver the presents without dropping them!”
• Add sleigh bell sound effects or play Christmas music

🎃 Halloween Havoc – "Pumpkin Panic Relay"
• Use orange cones and mini pumpkins (or orange balls)
• Story: “You’re racing through a spooky forest to deliver the magical pumpkins before the witch wakes up!”
• Add cobweb decorations or play spooky music 🎃👻

🥚 Easter Hop – "Egg Hunt Dash"
• Use colourful eggs (plastic or foam) balanced on rackets
• Set out “Easter nests” (hoops) for them to deliver eggs into
• Story: “The Easter Bunny needs your help hiding eggs all over the court!” 🐰

💘 Valentine's Race – "Heart to Heart"
• Replace beanbags with red foam hearts ❤️
• Players pair up for the sandwich race – “Spread the love as a team!”
• Add a “Cupid Challenge” — hit a foam arrow (cone) down the lane with the racket

🌷 Mother’s Day – "Flower Dash"
• Each child delivers a foam flower to a big cone marked “Mum”
• Use soft music and keep it gentle – “Let’s run carefully so we don’t squish the petals!” 💐
• Parents can join in and receive a “thank you flower” at the end

🛠 Father’s Day – "Tool Time Relay"
• Beanbags = “tools,” buckets = “toolboxes”
• Kids pretend they’re racing to fix something — bonus points for sound effects!
• Add a “high five Dad” station before tagging the next player 👋🔧

🏏 Objective:
Score as many runs as possible by hitting the ball and running around bases before the fielders return the ball.

🔧 Equipment:

• Tennis racket (used as the bat)

• Soft tennis ball or sponge ball

• 4 bases (cones)

• Fielding team and batting team (about 6–8 kids per side)

• One coach or player acts as feeder (pitcher)

👥 Teams:

• Divide the group into 2 teams: Batting and Fielding

• Switch roles after all batters have had a turn (or after 3 outs)

📝 Basic Rules:

1. Batting:

• Each batter gets one underarm feed (or two for younger players).

• They must hit the ball with the racket and run to at least first base.

• If they make it around all 4 bases = 1 full rounder (run)

• If they make it to 2nd or 3rd base and get stuck, they stay there. Next batter continues.

2. Running:

• You can run on a hit or miss (if ball is in play).

• Only one runner per base.

• If a batter overtakes another runner, the overtaker is out.

• Batters must run in one direction (no backtracking).

3. Fielding:

• Fielders try to catch the ball or collect it and return it to the feeder/pitcher.

• If they return the ball to the pitcher before the batter reaches the next base, the batter is out.

• Catches (on the full) = batter out.

4. Outs:

• A batter is out if:

  • The ball is caught on the full

  • The ball beats them back to the base i.e. they are stumped

  • They run backwards or miss a base

✅ Coaching Tips:

• Adjust base distances for age groups

• Let younger kids have 2 or 3 hits before running

• Use a sponge or foam ball for safety

• Rotate roles so everyone gets a chance to bat and field

• Use hitting tee’s/ coach manually hits the ball.

📖 Story Script (Intro)

“Ahoy there, mateys! 🏴‍☠️ You’ve all been chosen as brave young pirates to join a treasure hunt! Deep in the middle of the sea lies a mountain of golden treasure (tennis balls)! 💰 But be quick — only the fastest, smartest pirates will collect the most treasure for their team. Ready to plunder, crew? Let’s hear your best pirate AARRRRGH! 🗣️⚓”

⚙️ Set-Up

• Place a large tub or pile of tennis balls (or beanbags) in the centre of the court/hall — this is the treasure chest.

• Divide children into three teams and assign an assistant coach or adult to each as their Captain.

• Line teams up on opposite sides of the court or triangle around the treasure.

• Mark team “bases” using cones or hoops.

🕹️ How to Play

1.     On the coach’s signal, all players from each team runs to the centre and collects one tennis ball (treasure) at the same time.

2.     They must return it to their team’s base before the next player goes.

3.     Repeat until all the treasure is gone.

4.     Teams count their treasure. The team with the most loot wins! 🎉

🔁 Progression: Reverse Treasure

• Now the treasure must be returned to the chest!

• One player at a time returns a ball from their base to the centre.

• The first team to return all their treasure and sit down in their base wins Round 2.

🪶 Feathers – Simplifications

• Allow running with two balls or more at a time if there are lots of kids.

• Replace balls with beanbags for easier grip.

• Let parents assist younger tots with holding and collecting.

• For walking tots, allow carrying treasure in small buckets or with help.

⚡ Progressions – For Older Kids

• Add obstacles between base and treasure (cones to weave, hurdles to jump).

• Add a time limit — which team collects most treasure in 60 seconds?

• “Sneaky Pirates” mode: once all treasure is gone, teams can steal one treasure at a time from other team bases.

• Penalty Rule: stepping over lines means one ball must be returned.

🎃 Seasonal Variants

🎅 Christmas:
🎁 “Santa’s Sack” – presents instead of treasure. Elves collect them for Santa’s sleigh.

🐣 Easter:
🥚 “Easter Egg Hunt” – scatter plastic eggs (or yellow beanbags) across the court. Tots return them to their “nest”.

🎃 Halloween:
👻 “Pumpkin Snatch” – collect “pumpkins” (orange cones or balls). Watch out for the ghost (coach) trying to tag you!

❤️ Valentine’s Day:
💌 “Love Letter Dash” – collect foam hearts or envelopes and deliver to your team’s mailbox.

👩‍👧‍👦 Mother’s/Father’s Day:
💐 “Flower Run” – run to collect paper flowers and deliver them to mum/dad’s “garden patch”.

Parachute Game 🎈 

Focus: Teamwork, sensory play, motor coordination, and fun group interaction.
Equipment: Large parachute, soft balls (foam or light), optional music

🎯 Main Activities:

🌀 1. Turning the Wheel

• Everyone holds the parachute and steps backwards until it’s taut.

• Begin slowly walking in a circle — like turning a big wheel.

• Freeze! Change direction and go the other way.

• Encourage teamwork: "We can only turn it if we work together!"

🌊 2. Wave Maker

• Start with long, slow waves — lift the parachute high, then gently lower.

• Feel the breeze! Great for cooling off on hot days.

• Switch to fast, choppy waves — hold it at waist height and shake using your forearms.

• Try the game with music to change rhythm (e.g., slow to fast).

🍿 3. Popcorn Time!

• Lower the parachute to the floor but keep holding.

• Coach adds soft balls (“popcorn seeds”) to the centre.

• Everyone starts making small, fast waves to bounce the balls — like popcorn popping.

• Once all balls are bouncing:
  👉 “The popcorn’s cooked — time to launch it out of the pan!”
  👉 Shake harder to pop the balls off!

• (Tip: keep extra balls handy in case they bounce off too quickly.)

• Progression:  Popcorn catchers, have some kids around the outside to catch the popcorn as it pops out of the Parachute: use catching nets/ tups

-          Catch on rackets

-          Older: hit balls back before balls roll.

-          Two teams: COOKS (trying to shake balls off) and CLEANERS, trying to catch the balls when they spill and throw them back on the parachute; optional: can hit the ball back.

-          Optional Time Trial: time which the team gets rid of all the popcorn first; declare a winner

⛺ 4. Parachute Tent (Bubble Dome)

• Start with big waves, then on the next high lift, shout “Under the tent!”

• Everyone walks forward, pulling the chute behind them and sits down on the outside edge (underside) of the parachute

• Inside the bubble:
  👉 Whisper high fives to coaches and friends 👋
  👉 Ask a simple question like “What animal lives in a tent?” or “Can you see the stars?”

🧲 5. 1-2-3... Let Go!

• End by gathering around. Coach counts “1… 2… 3…” and everyone lets go.

• Coach pulls the parachute in for a big dramatic finish (kids love the whoosh).

   

🪶 Feathers – Simplifications for Younger Tots

• Let parents hold the chute while children watch and slowly join in.

• Use fewer balls for popcorn to reduce chaos.

• Allow little ones just to feel the breeze if they don’t want to move.

• Keep instructions very visual and animated — e.g., mime popcorn, animals, waves.

• Sit under the tent for a moment can be a great time to sing a short rhyme or song 🎵.

🎮 Variations & Add-Ons:

• 🎨 Colour Games: Ask “Everyone holding blue – lift it up!”

• 🍂 Seasonal Popcorn:

  • Autumn = “Leaf shower” 🍁

  • Winter = “Snowflake bounce” ❄️

  • Spring = “Baby bunnies jumping” 🐰

  • Summer = “Beach balls on the waves” 🏖️

• 🎵 Musical Parachute: Play a track — move slow for verse, fast for chorus

• 👀 Object Search: Hide small soft toys under parachute — "Who can find the teddy?"

👧🧒 Older Tots / Tennis Titans 🎾• 🏃‍♂️🌈 Movement Challenges:
When you call a child’s name, they must run under the parachute and out again before it falls ⏱️ — everyone lifts the parachute up like a wave 🌊 and cheers 🎉 the runner underneath!

• 🌍 Around the World:
Everyone lifts the parachute high ⬆️ and calls someone's name 📣. That child must run around the outside of the circle 🌀 and return to their spot before:
 A️⃣ the parachute falls 💥
 B️⃣ they beat a count of 5 or 10 🔢

• 🏁 Around the World Race:
Throw the parachute up into the air 🪂 and call out two children’s names 👧👦 — they race around the outside and try to switch places before it lands. Optional: declare the winner 🥇!

 - 🔢 Call out three children
 - 🔢 Call out four children

⚠️ Safety Tip:
🚫 Never let two children run underneath the parachute at the same time — they could collide head-on 🤕!

Overview

A fast-paced, fun-packed team game that combines agility, dodging, teamwork, and throwing accuracy. Kids take on the role of stealthy “agents” trying to complete their mission without getting “caught” (hit by a soft ball).

Set up 🎯

• Divide into 3 teams:
o 🟥 Team A – Throwers (left side)
o 🟦 Team B – Throwers (right side)
o 🟩 Team C – Runners (start at one end and attempt the mission)
• 📍 Place beanbags at the far end of the playing area.
• 🚫 Throwing zones are marked with cones — throwers must stay behind these when throwing.
• 🧱 Set up obstacles (cones, mini nets, boxes, etc.) across the playing surface for runners to use as cover.

🧰 Equipment Needed

• 🎾 Soft balls (e.g. foam tennis balls)
• 🪣 Rubber tubs for throwing/collecting
• 🟨 Beanbags (for runners to collect)
• 🟠 Cones/markers (to mark throw zones and runner paths)
• 🧱 Optional: mini nets, benches, or ball tubs as cover

🏃‍♂️ How to Play

1. Team C (Runners) tries to collect as many 🟨 beanbags as possible, moving across the zone (right to left).

2. They 🕵️‍♀️ dodge, dash, or hide behind obstacles to avoid being hit.

3. If a runner is hit, they must 🚶 return to the start and try again.

4. Once they reach the beanbags, they become 🛡️ immune on their return (must use the outside route).

5. Teams A & B (Throwers) try to hit runners with soft balls and inflatable footballs:
   o 🎯 Must throw from behind the line.
   o 🔁 Can retrieve loose balls, but must get back behind cones before throwing again.

IMPORTANT: COACHES NEED TO ADJUDICATE TO ENSURE FAIRNESS, CALL OUT WHEN CHILDREN HAVE BEEN HIT AND NEED TO RETURN TO THE START. REWARD HONESTY BY GIVING EXTRA LIVES TO CHILDREN WHO RETURN TO THE START WHEN HIT.  

📜 Rules Recap

• ❌ Only runners may be on the central surface.
• 🛡️ Runners are safe when returning via the outside after grabbing a beanbag.
• 🚫 Throwers must not block runners.
• 🔄 Rotate every 5 mins or after a full round.
• 🏆 Track beanbags collected — team with most wins!

🧠 Variations

• ⏱️ Add a time limit for runners.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Add a “spy” runner who gets 2 lives.
• 🛡️ Younger kids can use rackets as shields (remove if misused!).

🎓 Coach Tips

• 🎭 Encourage creative movement — crawling, diving, sneaking, etc.
• 📣 Cheer on brave or sneaky moves.
• ✅ Safety first: soft throws only, below the waist.

‍  Million Ball Match

Two teams compete to clear their side of the court by throwing or hitting as many softballs over the net as possible. The team with fewer balls on their side when time is up wins!

🛠️ Setup:

• Create a mini-court using cones or mini-nets.

• Place a net across the middle (or cones/line as a divider if indoors).

• Use soft foam balls (20–50 balls, depending on numbers).

• Split players into two teams, one on each side.

• Place balls evenly across both sides or in a pile in the middle to start.

🎯 How to Play:

1. On the whistle, players throw or hit softballs over the net to the other team’s side.

2. They can use rackets (forehands/backhands/ serves), throw with their hands, or roll.

3. Coaches/parents help monitor and encourage from the outside.

4. After a set time (e.g. 2–3 minutes), blow the whistle to stop.

5. Teams sit down and count the balls on their own side. The team with fewer balls wins the round!

🐣Feathers For Younger Children (ages 3–6):

• ✅ Throw only – no rackets needed to start.

• ✅ Allow rolling under the net for success.

• ✅ Play in short bursts (30 seconds to 1 minute).

• 🛡️ Add “Shield Zone” – a safe zone where 1 child can hold a racket and block.

• 👑 “Crown” the Most Helpful Teammate (not just winners).

🧗 Progressions For Older Children (ages 7+):

• 🎾 Must use rackets only to hit balls.

• 🎯 Designated hitters – assign 1–2 strikers per team, others feed.

• 🚫 No stepping in front of the service line.

• 🔁 Add a “reverse round”: each team must clear specific colour balls only.

• 🕒 Add a countdown timer for fast-paced final 30 seconds.

• 🧩 Introduce a “golden football” worth –2 points if it’s on your side at the end.

• 📦 Create a net trap: any ball caught on the net stays and counts as a penalty.

• IMPORTANT: Make sure the children are not too close to one another. If they are close to hitting one another, take their rackets off them and revert to throwing.

• 🧹 Clean-up Crew: After each round, get kids to collect balls into a tub to reset – great for teamwork and structure. At points to incentivise cleanup

‍ Great for footwork, coordination, and reaction time.

👨‍👩 Parent & Child Activity used mainly in Tennis Tots
Better to use indoors or in non-windy conditions.

Start with children standing in the ready position – wide stance over a marker, racket held waist-high like a table, ready to “catch” the falling scarf.

🔸 Instructions

1. Phase 1 – Drop Catch

   • Parent drops a scarf directly above the child.

   • Child must adjust and catch it on their racket at waist height.

   • Encourage children to stay alert and make small movements to stay under the scarf.

2. Phase 2 – Toss & Track

   • Parent gently tosses the scarf into the air (forwards, backwards, sideways).

   • Child has to jostle underneath and track it down for a controlled catch.

3. Phase 3 – Turn & React

   • Child starts facing away.

   • Parent throws the scarf and shouts “TURN!” mid-air.

   • Child spins around, locates the scarf, and scrambles to catch it on their racket.

🪶 Feathers (Simplify)

• Use catching nets instead of rackets

• Let them catch with two hands first, then introduce the racket.

• Reduce the distance they need to move – drop directly above the marker.

⚡ Progressions (Challenge)

• For older children go quicker to phase 3 and delay the time between the throw of scarf and the call of “turn”

• Have two scarves thrown – the child must decide which one to catch.

• Add “fake turns” – shout "turn" but delay the throw.

• Encourage children to use just their non-dominant hand to catch before moving to the racket.

Seasonal Alternatives

🎃 Halloween – “Ghost Catch!”

🕸️ Scarf = Ghost
👻 Parents say “BOO!” as they drop the scarf.

• Children must catch the ghost before it “disappears into the floor.”

• Add a spooky sound effect when it lands to keep the theme fun.

• Encourage children to do a spooky stomp or zombie walk between catches.

• For older kids: Catch with one hand while pretending to swat ghosts away with their racket.

🎄 Christmas – “Snowflake Catch!”

❄️ Scarf = Snowflake

• Parent says “Snowfall!” and drops the scarf.

• Kids must catch the snowflake softly without “melting” it (no squeezing).

• Add a challenge: catch with non-dominant hand = “extra careful mitten catch.”

• Have a “Blizzard round” where scarves are dropped from both sides quickly.

💘 Valentine’s – “Love Letter Drop”

💌 Scarf = Love Letter / Heart

• Parent says “Special Delivery!”

• Child catches the love letter before it hits the ground.

• Add a heart sticker or message on the scarf for added fun.

• Older kids: Catch and then “deliver” it to a friend by re-tossing softly.

🐣 Easter – “Catch the Chick”

🐥 Scarf = Baby chick or feather

• Parent says “Catch the chick!”

• Children must react quickly to catch the falling chick.

• Add a hopping or bunny jump to catch it before it lands.

• Could hide a small treat underneath the scarf as a reward.

🌞 Summer – “Butterfly Catch”

🦋 Scarf = Butterfly

• Parent says “Butterfly in the air!”

• Kids catch with soft, two-hand clap like wings.

• Encourage gentle movement and big smiles like they’re in a meadow.

• Add music or a breeze for immersive atmosphere.

‍ 🎯 Objective:
Stay on the “king” side of the court by winning quick points against challengers.

🔧 Setup:

• Use half or full court depending on numbers/space.

• One side is the “King’s” side (or Queen’s side!) – this is where the reigning player stands.

• Other players line up on the challenger side.

🕹️ How to Play:

1.     Coach feeds a ball to the challenger.

2.     Challenger hits the ball into play against the king/queen.

3.     If the challenger wins, they become the new king and move to the king’s side.

4.     If the king/queen wins, they stay and the next challenger steps in.

5.     Play 1-point rallies – no second chances or lets.

6.     Keep a running total of who holds the court the longest or most wins.

🏆 Optional Scoring:

• 1 point for each successful defence (king holds position).

• 1 point for each successful takeover (challenger becomes king).

• Great for tournaments: play 3-minute rounds or to 10 points.

🐣 Easier Variants for Younger Children:

• Let younger players bounce the ball before hitting.

• Allow multiple hits before returning over the net (e.g. trap and hit).

• Use larger balls (e.g. red sponge balls or even a foam football).

• Let players serve instead of feeding for extra engagement.

• Use mini-court with throw-and-catch rules before rallying.

‍ Jailbreak version 2 (without catches)

https://youtu.be/2Q_S_7QZooM?si=tJctFXXTmGiuOGoQ

📍 A fun net-based game focused on control, pressure, and team play

⏱ Duration: 8–10 mins

🧒 Age: 5–12 (adaptable with Feathers & Progressions)

🧱 Set-Up

·       Use one side of the tennis court (or small space split by mini net).

·       Split the playing side into three distinct zones using cones or lines:

o   🎯 Hitting Zone – where players take their turn

o   🕐 Queuing Zone – safe waiting space out of hitting line

o   🚧 Jail Zone – an area off to the side (can be marked with cones)

·       Coach is on the opposite side of the net, feeding balls to each hitter.

🎮 How to Play

1.       Each child takes their turn in the Hitting Zone.

2.       They are fed 3 shots by the coach (e.g., 2 groundstrokes, 1 volley).

3.       The goal is to land at least 2 out of 3 shotsin the court (adjust for age).

4.       ✅ If they succeed, they are safe and rejoin the queue.

5.       ❌ If they fail, they go to the Jail Zone and wait.

🦸 Jailbreak Rule

·       If a player in the queue gets all 3 shots in (or meets your criteria), the coach shouts “JAILBREAK!” 🔓

·       Everyone in the jail is freed and runs back to the queue.

·       But there’s a twist: as they run, the coach tries to gently hit them with foam balls (or softies).

·       Anyone hit must go back to jail for one more round.

🪶 Feathers (Simplifications for younger or new players)

·       Use hitting tee’s

·       Only one shot required instead of three.

·       Don’t enforce the “in” rule too strictly — count good effort or technique.

·       Instead of hitting over the net, roll or bounce the ball for them to strike.

·       Skip the jailbreak throwback stage — just let them run back freely.

⚡️ Progressions (Older/more advanced kids)

·       Make players change grip for each shot (forehand, backhand, volley).

·       Add a target zone (e.g., hit into a hoop or behind a marker).

·       Jailbreak only triggered if player hits all 3 shots into specific targets.

·       Add a timed challenge: how many jailbreaks in 5 minutes?

·       Jailbreak return: coach uses real tennis balls and must hit legs (controlled, fun “dodgeball” element).

💬 Coaching Tips

·       Keep the energy high — use drama!

“Oh no! We’ve lost another one to the jail!”
“Can anyone save them? This is our last hope!”

·       Use a “shield” racket when kids are being “chased” by coach balls — optional defensive layer.

‍ ‍

‍ Jailbreak version 1 (with catches)

‍ ‍

https://youtu.be/1mw1pGBGohA?si=XuD0DlCau3g53TY7

‍ ‍

🧱 Basic Rules:

‍ ‍

1.       Players line up on one side of the net (the Free Zone).

‍ ‍

2.       The coach feeds balls (or players use hitting tees), and players take turns trying to hit the ball over the net.

‍ ‍

3.       If the ball goes over, the player goes to the back of the line.

‍ ‍

4.       If the ball misses or hits the net, the player runs to the other side – Jail.

‍ ‍

5.       In Jail, players try to catch incoming balls. If they catch a ball cleanly, they swap with the player who hit it, and that player now goes to Jail.

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

🧰 Equipment Needed:

‍ ‍

·       Tennis balls (red/orange foam balls ideal for younger kids)

‍ ‍

·       Rackets

‍ ‍

·       Markers/cones for queues

‍ ‍

·       Hitting tees (optional – to assist with consistent contact)

‍ ‍

·       Catching nets (optional – for younger players or added challenge)

‍ ‍

‍ ‍

🔁 Optional Adaptations & Advanced Rules:

‍ ‍

🔹 Catching Nets

‍ ‍

·       In Jail, players can use small handheld nets or pop-up scoopers to catch balls.

‍ ‍

·       Hitting tee’s for lower ability

‍ ‍

·       Great for younger players or themed versions of the game (e.g. “Crab Jailbreak”).

‍ ‍

🔹 One Hand, One Bounce (for Jail players)

‍ ‍

·       Players in jail must catch with one hand only, and they can let the ball bounce once before catching.

‍ ‍

·       Encourages agility and anticipation.

‍ ‍

🔹 Hitter “Lives”

‍ ‍

·       Each player starts with 3 lives.

‍ ‍

·       Lose a life if you:

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o   Miss your shot,

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o   Hit out or into the net,

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o   Get caught by someone in Jail.

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·       Lose all 3 = automatic trip to Jail!

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·       This encourages accuracy and awareness of Jail players.

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🔹 Double Jail

‍ ‍

·       Use both ends of the court for Jail zones.

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·       Great for larger groups – players hit from the middle zone and Jail surrounds both ends.

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🔹 Timed Rounds

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·       Set a timer (e.g. 3–5 mins) and try to get as many jailbreaks as possible.

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·       Can play team vs team and count successful swaps.

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🔹 Challenge Catch

‍ ‍

·       Add a bonus rule: if a Jail player catches a volley (no bounce), they free two players or earn a “power-up” (e.g. skip a turn in Jail next round).

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💡 Coaching Tips:

‍ ‍

·       Keep things fun and fast-moving.

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·       Adjust difficulty based on ability – use foam balls, lower nets, or slower feeds if needed.

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·       Encourage players to cheer for jailbreaks and stay involved even in Jail.

‍ ‍

Grand Tour!🎾

A fun multi-skill tennis circuit that combines hitting, throwing, drop-feeding, and putting – encouraging children to explore different techniques and body movements while working toward a common target.

⏱️ Duration:
10–15 minutes

🎤 Coach Script / Introduction

"Okay travellers! ✈️ Today you're going on a trip Around the World! 🌍
You’ll need your luggage – that’s your racket and a little bucket of balls – and you’ll travel from country to country (station to station), trying to land your balls in the centre of the world. That’s our target zone!"

🧭 Setup & Station Descriptions

• Lay out a large circle (or oval) around a central target zone with 2–3 upturned buckets.

• Create 5–7 stations around the edge of the circle. Examples include:

  1. Hitting Tee Station – Hit forehands off a tee toward the target buckets.

  2. Throwing Station – Gently underarm or overarm throw into the buckets.

  3. Drop-Feed Station – A parent or partner gently drops a ball for the child to hit.

  4. Self Drop Station – Children drop the ball themselves and hit.

  5. Putting Station – Use a tennis racket to gently roll the ball into sideways traffic cones or tubs.

• Give each child a mini bucket or tub (their suitcase) with 3–5 balls inside.

• Children move clockwise around the world trying each station.

🔁 Gameplay Instructions

1. Start at a station with their luggage (plastic tub)

2. Complete the activity at the station (1–2 balls max).

3. Collect missed balls near the station and carry on (leave balls that reach the middle).

4. Travel with racket and luggage to the next station.

5. End by picking up cones and tees with the children to reinforce responsibility.

🎯 Technical Coaching Tips

• Tee stations: Focus on low to high swing and sideways stance.

• Throwing stations: Teach underarm technique, balance, and follow-through.

• Drop feed stations: Cue “watch the bounce, then swing”.

• Putting station: Use forward-and-backward push like a golf putt, not a slap.

• Highlight how the height of the hit affects whether the ball drops into the bucket.

🪶 Feathers (Simplifications for Younger Children)

• Use larger buckets in the middle.

• Allow children to sit down and roll balls underarm instead of hitting.

• Use balloons or large foam balls for throwing.

• Let them use their hands to drop balls directly into buckets if needed.

• Assign an adult helper at each station to give clear instructions.

⚡ Progressions (For Older or Advanced Children)

• Reduce the size of the buckets or switch to cones on their side.

• Enforce topspin hitting on tee and drop-feed stations.

• Add a challenge: hit 2 out of 3 balls into the bucket before moving on.

• Encourage use of backhand at one or more stations.

• Add a timer per station to build urgency and pace.

Fireworks!

Objective:
The goal of the Fireworks game is for children to catch foam balls ("fireworks") sent into the air by the coach. The kids must catch the "fireworks" using either catching nets or buckets, with the challenge being to catch them as cleanly as possible at waist height, ideally without a bounce.

Setup

• Space:
  This game can be played in a large open space, like a tennis court, indoor hall, or any spacious area. Ideally, you'll want to use foam balls that are safe to catch.

• Equipment:

o   Foam balls (representing fireworks).

o   Catching nets or buckets (one per child).

o   Tennis rackets (optional for kids who want to try hitting with rackets).

• Participants:
  You’ll need a group of kids, ideally around 6-10, though it can work with larger groups. Divide the space into two sides, one for the coach (who will send up the fireworks) and one for the kids who will catch them.

How to Play

1. Gather the Kids:
   Start by gathering the kids on one side of the space. Equip each child with either a catching net or bucket. Explain that their job is to catch the fireworks (the foam balls) that will be launched into the air.

2. Explain the Fireworks:
   The coach (you) will be sending the fireworks up into the air. These “fireworks” will come in various forms:

   • Different heights: Some balls will be tossed higher in the air than others.

   • Multiple balls at once: Occasionally, more than one ball will be launched at a time, increasing the challenge.

   • Spin: To make it more fun and challenging, you can spin the balls, so they move unpredictably through the air.

3. Catching the Fireworks:
   The kids will attempt to catch the fireworks. The rules are simple:

   • They must try to catch them at waist height, which will encourage good body positioning and focus on agility.

   • Ideally, the child will catch the ball without a bounce. If the ball bounces before they catch it, they still get a point or continue, but it’s a little more challenging when they try to catch it without a bounce.

4. Variations:

   • Advanced Adaptation: For older or more experienced players, you can use mini red balls that travel higher and faster in air but are more dangerous if they are hit

   • Advanced Adaptation: For older or more experienced players, you can make the game more challenging by requiring them to catch the balls using only one hand, or perhaps even toss them in the air first before catching them.

   • Team Play: If there are enough kids, you can have them work in teams, where each team tries to catch as many fireworks as possible within a certain time limit.

   • Game Mode: Turn it into a point-based game. Each time a child successfully catches a firework, they score a point. The team or child with the most points at the end wins.

Safety Considerations:

• Ensure that there’s enough space for the children to move around freely.

• Foam balls are soft and safe, but be cautious of any hard surfaces where the ball might bounce unpredictably.

• If using nets or buckets, make sure they are the appropriate size for the children's age group.

Seasonal theme variations for the 🎆 Fireworks Catching Game, perfect for adding fun and excitement throughout the year while keeping the core structure the same:

🎄 **Christmas – “Catch the Snowflakes” ❄️🎅

The coach becomes Father Christmas, launching soft “snowflakes” (white foam balls) into the sky.
Children try to catch them in stockings (buckets or nets).
❄️ Add drama by saying “Blizzard coming!” and tossing multiple snowflakes at once.
Bonus: Use red/white balls as “candy canes” for special point rounds!

🐣 **Easter – “Egg Drop!” 🐰🥚

Coach is the Easter Bunny tossing colourful Easter eggs (foam balls) into the sky.
Kids catch them in their baskets (buckets) to fill up their chocolate stash!
🥚 Use pastel-coloured balls and yell “Golden Egg!” for a surprise bonus throw.

🎃 **Halloween – “Witch’s Brew” 🧙‍♀️🎃

Coach is a witch launching magic ingredients into her cauldron!
Kids must catch the ingredients (foam balls) in cauldrons (buckets) to complete the spooky spell.
💀 Use glow-in-the-dark or orange/green foam balls for eerie effect.

💘 **Valentine’s – “Heart Catch” 💖💌

The coach throws hearts or love letters (pink/red foam balls) into the air.
Kids try to catch them in mailbags (buckets).
💘 Add “Cupid's Catch” where only one hand can be used, or spin the ball like a flying kiss!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 **Mother’s/Father’s Day – “Breakfast Catch!” 🍳☕

Pretend you're launching parts of a breakfast-in-bed tray!
Foam balls = croissants, toast, or cups of tea, and kids have to catch them in serving trays.
☕ Can play a version where parents throw and kids catch to “serve them breakfast.”Fireworks!

Objective:
The goal of the Fireworks game is for children to catch foam balls ("fireworks") sent into the air by the coach. The kids must catch the "fireworks" using either catching nets or buckets, with the challenge being to catch them as cleanly as possible at waist height, ideally without a bounce.

Setup

• Space:
  This game can be played in a large open space, like a tennis court, indoor hall, or any spacious area. Ideally, you'll want to use foam balls that are safe to catch.

• Equipment:

o   Foam balls (representing fireworks).

o   Catching nets or buckets (one per child).

o   Tennis rackets (optional for kids who want to try hitting with rackets).

• Participants:
  You’ll need a group of kids, ideally around 6-10, though it can work with larger groups. Divide the space into two sides, one for the coach (who will send up the fireworks) and one for the kids who will catch them.

How to Play

1. Gather the Kids:
   Start by gathering the kids on one side of the space. Equip each child with either a catching net or bucket. Explain that their job is to catch the fireworks (the foam balls) that will be launched into the air.

2. Explain the Fireworks:
   The coach (you) will be sending the fireworks up into the air. These “fireworks” will come in various forms:

   • Different heights: Some balls will be tossed higher in the air than others.

   • Multiple balls at once: Occasionally, more than one ball will be launched at a time, increasing the challenge.

   • Spin: To make it more fun and challenging, you can spin the balls, so they move unpredictably through the air.

3. Catching the Fireworks:
   The kids will attempt to catch the fireworks. The rules are simple:

   • They must try to catch them at waist height, which will encourage good body positioning and focus on agility.

   • Ideally, the child will catch the ball without a bounce. If the ball bounces before they catch it, they still get a point or continue, but it’s a little more challenging when they try to catch it without a bounce.

4. Variations:

   • Advanced Adaptation: For older or more experienced players, you can use mini red balls that travel higher and faster in air but are more dangerous if they are hit

   • Advanced Adaptation: For older or more experienced players, you can make the game more challenging by requiring them to catch the balls using only one hand, or perhaps even toss them in the air first before catching them.

   • Team Play: If there are enough kids, you can have them work in teams, where each team tries to catch as many fireworks as possible within a certain time limit.

   • Game Mode: Turn it into a point-based game. Each time a child successfully catches a firework, they score a point. The team or child with the most points at the end wins.

Safety Considerations:

• Ensure that there’s enough space for the children to move around freely.

• Foam balls are soft and safe, but be cautious of any hard surfaces where the ball might bounce unpredictably.

• If using nets or buckets, make sure they are the appropriate size for the children's age group.

Seasonal theme variations for the 🎆 Fireworks Catching Game, perfect for adding fun and excitement throughout the year while keeping the core structure the same:

🎄 **Christmas – “Catch the Snowflakes” ❄️🎅

The coach becomes Father Christmas, launching soft “snowflakes” (white foam balls) into the sky.
Children try to catch them in stockings (buckets or nets).
❄️ Add drama by saying “Blizzard coming!” and tossing multiple snowflakes at once.
Bonus: Use red/white balls as “candy canes” for special point rounds!

🐣 **Easter – “Egg Drop!” 🐰🥚

Coach is the Easter Bunny tossing colourful Easter eggs (foam balls) into the sky.
Kids catch them in their baskets (buckets) to fill up their chocolate stash!
🥚 Use pastel-coloured balls and yell “Golden Egg!” for a surprise bonus throw.

🎃 **Halloween – “Witch’s Brew” 🧙‍♀️🎃

Coach is a witch launching magic ingredients into her cauldron!
Kids must catch the ingredients (foam balls) in cauldrons (buckets) to complete the spooky spell.
💀 Use glow-in-the-dark or orange/green foam balls for eerie effect.

💘 **Valentine’s – “Heart Catch” 💖💌

The coach throws hearts or love letters (pink/red foam balls) into the air.
Kids try to catch them in mailbags (buckets).
💘 Add “Cupid's Catch” where only one hand can be used, or spin the ball like a flying kiss!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 **Mother’s/Father’s Day – “Breakfast Catch!” 🍳☕

Pretend you're launching parts of a breakfast-in-bed tray!
Foam balls = croissants, toast, or cups of tea, and kids have to catch them in serving trays.
☕ Can play a version where parents throw and kids catch to “serve them breakfast.”

Chicken, Hero, or Twin

Equipment

·       Scarves or “tails”

·       Beanbags (one per player)

·       Rackets (foam or lightweight)

·       Footballs (size 1 or soft balls)

·       Cones for start/finish lines

Setup

·       Mark a start line and finish line.

·       1–2 defenders in the middle zone — if you have an assistant coach, they start as the defender.

·       All other players are attackers.

How to Play:

1.       Coach calls “Chicken, Hero, or Twin”:

o   Chicken – Everyone moves from start to finish.

o   Hero – One named player goes alone.

o   Twin – Two named players move together.

2.       Defenders try to snatch attackers’ tails (no touching players).

3.       If a tail is taken, the attacker joins the defenders for the rest of the round. Keep going until only one player remains — they’re the champion.

Progression Stages

1.       Stage 1 – No Rackets

o   Just tails and running/moving across the space.

o   Focus on evasion and awareness.

2.       Stage 2 – Add Rackets + Beanbags Balanced on Strings

o   Players must balance a beanbag on the racket head while avoiding defenders.

3.       Stage 3 – Dribble Footballs Hockey Style with Rackets

o   Players push or tap the footballs along the ground while avoiding defenders.

Variations

·       Add cones in the middle to weave around.

·       Make defenders “freeze” for 2 seconds after a failed snatch.

Space Hop 🌌🎾

🎾 Best for small groups (3–6 kids per coach). For larger groups, split into separate “galaxies”. Similar concept to Fruit Salad.

🛰 Story Script (Set the Scene!)

"Welcome to Space Hop Mission Control! 👩‍🚀👨‍🚀
You're each standing on your very own planet (coloured dot) and preparing to blast off. You'll take turns launching tennis balls into space (groundstrokes) and watch out — meteors might strike at any moment! Keep your helmets on (cone hats), stay alert, and don’t float away in zero gravity!"

🧠 Purpose

• Develop forehand and backhand groundstrokes
• Improve footwork, alertness, and reaction time
• Add imagination and engagement through themed play

🏗 Set-Up

• Line up children sideways on dots (planets), parallel to the net
• Coach stands at one end feeding drop feeds (use forehand/backhand depending on side)
• First child in line hits repeatedly — others bounce on toes until it’s their turn
• Coach uses commands to cue changes

🔁 How It Works

• One child at the front hits as many balls as possible while others bounce on their dots
• When coach calls "Space Hop!" 🚀 → everyone moves up one planet and new child becomes hitter
• If anyone stops bouncing (or whenever coach decides) → "Meteor Strike!" ☄️ → coach rolls a ball down the line and they must jump over it
• Call "Meteor Shower!" 🌧 → all kids must dash to the fence and back to their dot without getting tagged by coach’s throws
• Say "Zero Gravity!" 🌕 → kids must spin around once on their dot and continue bouncing
• Add silly extras: wear traffic cones as space helmets 🪖 (upside down), or name the planets (Mars, Venus, Jupiter...)

🪶 Feathers (Easier Variations)

• Shorten distance of feed
• Use foam balls
• Let parents assist on dots or near the net
• Allow underarm throws instead of racquet hits
• Skip meteor elements for very young groups

⚡ Progressions (Older / Confident Players)

• Add targets to hit (like hoops or cones) with rewards, like a shield from the next meteor strike (don’t have to run)
• Score how many balls are hit in a row
• Coach switches ends for backhands
• Add a spinning serve or bounce-hit before space hop
• Have two kids hitting alternately on two sides

🏆 Finishing Ideas

• Final round = “Meteor Mayhem!” — Coach rolls lots of balls while kids dodge back to their dots
• Award space wristbands, star stickers 🌟, or medals
• Take a group photo with cones on heads = Space Crew Shot 📸🛸

Seasonal Variations

🎃 Halloween Hop

• Dots = Pumpkins

• Rename "Space Hop" to “Pumpkin Pop” – kids line up behind pumpkins to smash spooky balls.

• “Meteor Strike” = Witch’s Curse – kids dodge flying broomsticks (rolled balls).

• “Meteor Shower” = Ghost Chase – kids must run to the graveyard (fence) and back without being tagged by ghosts (coaches rolling balls).

• “Zero Gravity” = Zombie Spin – kids spin like dizzy zombies before returning to position.

• 👻 Kids wear witch hats or masks made from round cones.

🎄 Christmas Comet

• Dots = Presents or sleigh stops

• Rename "Space Hop" to “Santa Serve”

• “Meteor Strike” = Snowball Fight – dodge snowballs rolled by coaches.

• “Meteor Shower” = Sleigh Dash – run to North Pole and back.

• “Zero Gravity” = Elf Spins – spin around like dizzy elves.

• 🎅 Hats = Santa hats, elf ears, or round cones decorated as snow caps.

🐣 Easter Orbit

• Dots = Easter Eggs

• Rename "Space Hop" to “Egg Blast”

• “Meteor Strike” = Bunny Hop – dodge carrots (balls) while hopping on the spot.

• “Meteor Shower” = Egg Hunt Dash – run to the fence and back to “find” their egg.

• “Zero Gravity” = Chick Spin – kids flap their arms and spin like little chicks.

• 🐰 Hats = Bunny ears or round cones with egg stickers.

💘 Valentine Volley

• Dots = Love Hearts

• Rename "Space Hop" to “Heart Shot”

• “Meteor Strike” = Cupid’s Arrow – dodge heart-shaped balls

• “Meteor Shower” = Love Sprint – run to give a “heart” (high five) to a parent and back.

• “Zero Gravity” = Spin of Love – spin with arms open.

• ❤️ Hats = Cone helmets with hearts on top.