Preparation#
Choose the Right Jump Rope#
To do a good job, one must first sharpen their tools. Choosing the right jump rope can spark a child's interest and make learning easier. It is consistently recommended to use a bamboo jump rope—it's attractive and lightweight.
Adjust the Length of the Jump Rope#
For children just starting to learn how to jump rope, the length should be a bit longer, reaching up to the child's shoulder. As they become more familiar with jumping rope, it can gradually be shortened.
Choose a Suitable Venue#
Since children's bones are still developing, a hard floor without cushioning can be harmful to their bodies. It's best to start learning on a rubber surface.
Correct Jumping Posture#
Stand up straight, relax the shoulders, keep the upper arms close, extend the forearms, and swing the rope with the wrists.
Keep the feet together, jump up and down, bend the knees, and land on the balls of the feet.
Teaching Young Children to Jump Rope#
Patience, patience, patience, and more patience. Parents must not rush during the teaching process; treat it as a game for children to learn while playing.
1. Foot Jumping Practice (Little Mole Jumping)#
Adults hold one hand up, and let the child jump in place, trying to touch the hand with their head, just like a cute little mole hopping around.
The key to the game is to have the child keep their feet together and jump in the same spot, with a lower jump height and a faster frequency. Teach them to feel the sensation of landing on their toes with naturally bent knees.
2. Jumping to the Rhythm Practice (Parent-Child Kangaroo Jump)#
A game where adults jump with children can help little ones learn the rhythm of jumping.
3. Barehanded Rope Swing Practice#
a. Child Swings Rope with Hands#
First practice swinging the rope with one hand, then with both hands.
This practice mainly focuses on helping the child master the correct way to hold the rope and feel the rhythm of swinging.
b. Adult and Child Swing Rope Together#
Adults and children each hold one end of the rope and swing it together, adding fun to the activity.
Younger children may tend to keep their arms too straight while swinging the rope, using their shoulder joints as the pivot. In this game, emphasize the feeling of using the wrists to swing the rope, which will make it faster and easier.
4. Combined Swing and Jump Practice#
a. Barehanded Rope Swing + Jumping#
Have the child combine swinging the rope with jumping to simulate the regular jump rope action.
b. Parent Throws the Rope, Child Jumps Over#
The parent holds the rope, calls out a command, and throws the rope while the child jumps over it. This reduces the difficulty for the child when crossing the rope for the first time and builds confidence.
c. Swing and Step Jump#
Let the child feel the rope passing under their feet.