Mini Carnival Moves

Overview

This 30-minute session is designed for Kindergarten students (Foundation Year in WA) to extend their previous mini carnival play activities (sack races, egg and spoon races, tug of war) by introducing an obstacle course that involves running, balancing, and jumping. The lesson engages children in experimenting with different ways of moving safely, manipulating objects and space, developing coordination, and fostering social skills. The activities and learning outcomes are aligned with the Western Australian Kindergarten Curriculum Health and Physical Education standards.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Experiment with different ways of moving their body safely through running, balancing, and jumping (AC9HPFM02)
• Manipulate space and objects effectively while negotiating an obstacle course (AC9HPFM02_E1, AC9HPFM02_E4)
• Demonstrate improved coordination of movement skills (e.g., balance, hopping, jumping)
• Use social skills such as taking turns, cooperation, and encouraging peers during physical activities (AC9HPFM02_E3)
• Identify and follow simple safety rules and boundaries during physical play

Referencing WA Kindergarten Health and Physical Education Content Code: AC9HPFM02 and elaborations.

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Lesson Structure (30 minutes total for 15 students)

1. Warm-up (5 minutes)

Activity: "Animal Movements"

• The teacher invites children to move around the play area in different ways as various animals. For example, hop like a frog, tiptoe like a cat, or balance like a flamingo.
• Children explore movement variations safely, gently raising heart rates and stretching muscles.
• Use clear safety reminders about personal space and equipment.

Purpose: Prepare bodies for activity, promote safe experimentation with movement, and develop spatial awareness.

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2. Main Activity (20 minutes)

Activity: Obstacle Course – Run, Balance, Jump

Set up a simple, safe obstacle course with these elements spaced out appropriately for young children:

• Running Path: Mark a short running track (approx. 5-10 meters)
• Balance Beam: A low, wide beam or flat wooden plank for children to walk across steadily
• Jumping Stations: Set out 2-3 spots with soft mats, hoops, or markers where children jump forward, sideways, or over low objects
• Integration of previous mini carnival games equipment in the course (e.g., sack race section or an egg and spoon balance zone) to link prior experiences

Implementation:

• Demonstrate each section slowly, encouraging children to try different ways of moving at each station (e.g., hopping on one foot, jumping with both feet).
• Organise students into small groups and rotate through the obstacle stations with peer encouragement.
• Emphasise safe movement, awareness of others, and personal boundaries.
• Use positive reinforcement to build confidence and persistence.

Learning Focus:

• Experimenting with diverse movement types and negotiating space safely (AC9HPFM02_E1, AC9HPFM02_E5)
• Developing coordination through balancing and jumping
• Practicing social skills: sharing equipment, cheering peers, turn-taking (AC9HPFM02_E3)

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3. Cool-down (5 minutes)

Activity: "Slow Movements and Breathing"

• Gather children in a circle; guide them through slow stretches touching toes, reaching for the sky, and gentle twisting.
• Lead simple deep breathing exercises (e.g., "smell the flower, blow out the candle").
• Discuss with children which parts of the obstacle course were fun and what movements they liked best.

Purpose: Calm the body, transition to quieter activity, and reinforce positive reflections on participation.

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Assessment and Reflection

• Observation during obstacle course: Teacher notes children’s abilities to try varied movements, negotiate equipment confidently, and demonstrate safe behaviours.
• Social interaction: Monitor cooperation, turn-taking, and encouragement among peers.
• Verbal prompts: Ask questions such as "How did you move across the balance beam?" or "What was your favourite jump?" to engage students in reflecting on their learning.

This formative assessment aligns with Kindergarten HPE outcome AC9HPFM02, focusing on experimenting with movement and manipulating space safely.

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Equipment and Setup Notes

• Soft mats, bean bags, cones, hoops, sacks for sack races, spoons and lightweight balls or eggs for balance, a low balance beam or plank.
• Clearly marked activity zones with cones or tape.
• Ensure all equipment is safe, stable, and appropriate for young children.

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This lesson plan introduces variety and fun via the obstacle course integrated with mini carnival activities while embedding essential skill development and safety awareness as prescribed by the Western Australian Kindergarten Curriculum for Health and Physical Education.

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If you need, I can also provide printable activity descriptions or visual aids to support teachers in delivering this engaging and curriculum-aligned session.