How to teach preschoolers broad jumps and running jumps: 55 ideas

You teach young children to jump far by starting with two-foot jumps to clear targets, then adding a short run-up and a one-foot take-off, always with a soft, safe landing. This series of 55 playful activities is for toddler and preschool gym teachers who want to develop take-off, flight and landing through games and simple setups.

55 video steps · preschool-broad-running-jumps

Step 1 of 55, free: Broad Jumps Running Jumps 1

The phases

1. Two-foot take-off: push off with both feet together and swing the arms forward.
2. Landing: land on two feet with bent knees and stay standing without falling.
3. Distance: jump to targets like lines, hoops or mats at increasing distances.
4. Running jump: combine a short run with a one-foot take-off over or onto a target.
5. Rhythm and combinations: link several jumps in a row, such as hops, leaps and broad jumps.

Before you start

Suits toddlers and preschoolers, roughly from the age when children can run steadily and jump off the ground with both feet.

Common mistakes

• Jumping without an arm swing: the jump stays short.
• Landing with straight legs: hard landings and loss of balance.
• Taking off from one foot when two feet are asked: the child twists in the air.
• Targets set too far: children stop trying or land unsafely.

Coaching cues

• Swing your arms
• Push with both feet
• Soft knees
• Freeze like a statue

All 55 steps

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Frequently asked questions

At what age can children do a broad jump?

Many children begin jumping forward with two feet as toddlers, but control and distance develop over the preschool years. Every child develops at their own pace, so adjust targets to the child.

How do I make jumping fun for preschoolers?

Use stories, animals, colored targets and small challenges. Let children choose between easy and harder distances so everyone succeeds, stays motivated and keeps trying again.

How do I keep running jumps safe?

Use soft landing surfaces, a clear running lane, enough space between children and targets they can reach. Keep the run-up short at first and lengthen it only when landings stay controlled.

Related series

• Preschool Jumping
• Jumping High and Low
• Preschool Physical Activity Games