Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Movement · The activity desk
Indoor tape trail
Follow a floor-level trail and invent gentle movements along the way.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
Low-tack painter's tape suitable for the floor
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.
Set up: An adult checks the tape on an inconspicuous spot, clears a dry level floor, and presses a short winding line and two wide squares flat.
Adult's role: Stay beside the child, check that tape stays flat, and offer a hand if wanted. Let the child choose movements that feel comfortable.
Let's make it happen
- Travel slowly along the winding line in a way that works for you.
- At each square, pause and choose a movement, such as reaching up or turning your hands.
- Return along the trail and invent a new movement for the next turn.
Make it simpler: Follow the line together while seated or using a mobility aid; point to each square and choose a gesture.
Clean up: An adult removes the tape promptly according to its label and checks the floor for residue.
Keep the route away from stairs and furniture. Walk rather than race, and stop if tape lifts or the floor becomes slippery.