Game version
Let the child be the coach for a turn: show the grown-up how to do “Pencil Jumps on the Grass”, then swap.
Pencil Jumps on the Grass
On land: jump straight up with arms tight by the sides like a pencil, and land softly. The straight body divers use, practiced on dry land.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Stand tall on grass, arms by your sides.
- Ages
- 4 to 6
- Time
- 3 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Nothing to bring
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Entry
The steps
How it works
- Stand tall on grass, arms by your sides.
- Jump straight up, squeezing tall and thin like a pencil.
- Land softly on two feet with bent knees.
- Do about 8 pencil jumps with a rest between.
Coaching point
Praise the try: “Straight as a pencil!”
Safety: On land only, on grass or a soft surface. At this age any water play is with a grown-up in the water within arm’s reach; never jump or go in head first.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Story
You are a superhero in training, and “Pencil Jumps on the Grass” is today’s mission.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
Free for families and teams
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