This fun and simple obstacle course with a twist is a great way to work on gross motor skills, but also challenges other skills like self-regulation and direction-following!
If you’re a pediatric therapist, you’re probably already a pro when it comes to coming up with fun obstacle course ideas! But this fun and simple obstacle course with a twist may be new to you – which means that it could be the perfect idea to keep your sessions fresh and exciting!
The best part is that you don’t need any particular materials or props for this activity! Use whatever you have on hand or choose the props and materials for your obstacle course based on the skill areas you want to address with the kids you’re working with.
This obstacle course is a great way to work on skills that you may not always target during obstacle courses including self-regulation motor control, inhibition of movement, and more!
Don’t miss our recent post about our favorite obstacle course equipment – so many fun gross motor items to spice up your therapy room or PE class! And you can find all of our best obstacle course ideas here!
Simple Obstacle Course With a Twist!
What You’ll Need:
-Any and all obstacle course materials (e.g. tunnel, balance beam, stepping stones, foam wedge, cones, floor spots, etc.)
-An open space to set up your course!
What to Do:
The instructions for this activity are simple! Check out the video demonstration here!
All you have to do is demonstrate your course and have kids take a few turns to get used to the setup.
Next, tell the kids that they’re going to keep doing the course…but there’s a twist! Tell kids to move through the obstacles until they hear you yell out “FREEZE!” When they hear this prompt, they have to freeze like a statue on whatever obstacle they might be on.
They may end up teetering on the edge of an obstacle, or balancing awkwardly on one foot!
How to Change it Up:
-Put on some music and have kids move through the obstacle course while the music is playing, freezing when the music stops!
-Make it a contest! If you catch anyone moving after you say “FREEZE!” – they’re out until the next round!
Other Activities & Ideas
3 Easy Games to Improve Self-Control in Kids
Creative Obstacle Course Ideas
Our Favorite Obstacle Course Materials
Fairy Tales Games: Gross Motor Obstacle Course [FREE PRINTABLE!]
Groundhog Day Activities: Groundhog Obstacle Course
Outer Space Obstacle Course Activities
Camping Themed Activities: Happy Camper Obstacle Course
