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Frog Jump the River

Two lines make a “river”. Jump across with two feet and land quietly like a frog; make the river a little wider when it feels easy.

By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth soccer coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026

Set up

Lay two ropes or towels on the ground a small step apart: that is the river.

Ages
4 to 6
Time
3 min
Players
Just you
Space
Yard or field
Bring
2 ropes, towels or chalk lines
Level · skill
Beginner · Fitness

The steps

How it works

  1. Lay two ropes or towels on the ground a small step apart: that is the river.
  2. Your child jumps across with two feet together.
  3. Land quietly with bent knees, like a frog.
  4. After a few jumps, move the ropes a little further apart.

Coaching point

Praise the landing: “Such a soft frog landing!”

Safety: Land on two feet with bent knees on grass or a soft surface. Play on grass or a soft, flat, clear space with nothing to trip on. Stop for a drink and a rest whenever they want one.

Make it fun

Play it, don't drill it

Game version

River jump together: the grown-up makes the river a little wider each time and you both jump and land softly like frogs.

Story

You are a frog hopping across the river to your lily pad.

Practice makes progress

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