Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Movement · The activity desk
Chalk shape journey
Follow a chalk route between shapes and choose a movement at each stop.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
Large sidewalk chalk and a dry, level outdoor play surface where drawing is allowed
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.
Set up: An adult checks the area is clear of traffic, driveways, sharp objects and trip hazards, then draws a broad path with three large shapes.
Adult's role: Stay close throughout, keep the area free from traffic, and help adapt movements to the child's abilities.
Let's make it happen
- Pick a shape at the start and follow the path toward the next one at a comfortable pace.
- Pause at each shape and choose a gentle action, such as stretching or waving.
- Travel back through the shapes or draw a different route together.
Make it simpler: Point to the shapes in order, or follow the route with a mobility aid and wave at each one.
Clean up: Put the chalk away, wash hands, and rinse the drawings only where permitted.
Keep chalk out of mouths and supervise closely. Avoid wet or slippery pavement, roads, and active driveways.