Fun & Simple Skipping Techniques for Early Years & Young Learners
- Mary Cox
- Apr 1
- 2 min read
Skipping is a fantastic way for young children to develop coordination, timing, and rhythm. However, learning to turn the rope and jump at the right moment can be tricky for little ones and beginners. Here are some simple, fun, and engaging ways to help early years children build these essential skills.
Step 1: Finding the Right Space
Before skipping, children should make sure they have enough room to practice safely:
Find a big space and lay the rope on the ground in a circle around you.
Sit in the middle of the circle to check that you are not too close to another person or any obstacles.
Look and check your space in front, behind, and above you.
Hold the rope handles and turn the rope over your head and back again a few times. The rope should turn freely. This will be your skipping space—stay in your space!
Step 2: Learning Rhythm & Timing
Teaching children the correct timing is key to successful skipping. The phrase "Turn, Wait, Jump" can help them remember the sequence:
Forward Skipping:
Start with hands in front and the rope behind the legs. Avoid holding hands behind the shoulders (no "chicken wings").
Turn the rope over your head in a full circle before jumping.
Say "Turn, Wait, Jump" to help children pause before jumping.
Avoid turning and jumping at the same time—jump only after the rope reaches the floor.
Backward Skipping:
Some children find it easier to skip backward, and that’s perfectly fine!
Turn the rope over the head from front to back.
Wait for the rope to reach the floor before jumping.
Encourage them to keep turning and jumping in a smooth, rhythmic pattern.
Step 3: Jumping Techniques
Once children understand the turning and timing, they can try different ways of jumping:
1. Double Bounce:
Two jumps per turn of the rope.
Jump, rest for a beat while turning the rope over, then jump again.
Keep arms moving in small circles at the side of the body.
2. Single Bounce:
One jump per turn of the rope.
Requires a slightly faster rope turn than the double bounce.
3. Running Step:
Two steps per turn of the rope, alternating right foot and left foot.
4. Speed Skip:
One step per turn of the rope, stepping from right foot to left foot with each turn.
Encouraging Confidence & Practice
Let children practice at their own pace - some may need extra time to develop coordination.
Clap or count to reinforce rhythm and help them stay on beat.
Remind them: "Turn, Wait, Jump!"
Celebrate small successes to keep them motivated!
With these steps, beginners and early years children can build confidence and master the skill of skipping in a fun and supportive way!
Ready to get your little ones skipping like pros? Shop our collection of premium skipping ropes here.
Want to make sure you’ve got the perfect rope size for your child? Learn how to choose the right length and get them started on the right foot with our handy guide here.
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