Rake fallen leaves into the biggest pile you can manage, then take turns getting a running start and jumping straight in. Rebuild the pile after every jump — the raking is as much a workout as the jumping.
What you need
- a rake (child-sized if available)
How to do it
- 1Rake fallen leaves into one big pile, letting the child help even if it slows things down.
- 2"Get a running start and jump right in the middle!" Demonstrate the first jump to show it's safe.
- 3Rebuild the pile together after every jump — this is half the activity, not a chore between turns.
- 4Bury a small toy in the pile partway through for a surprise dig once jumping wears thin.
Variations
- If the child is too small to jump confidently: let them walk in and flop backward instead of a running jump.
- How it ends: one final 'explosion jump' where everyone jumps in together scatters the pile and ends it with a bang.
💡 Parent tip
Check the pile for sticks or hidden debris raked in by accident before the first jump.
What your child develops
- Whole-body coordination — a running jump combines speed, timing and landing control
- Real physical labour — raking builds genuine upper-body and core strength through repetition
- Seasonal awareness — connects the activity to a specific, noticeable time of year
Safety notes
- Clear the landing area of hard objects, roots, or rocks before jumping. Supervise closely for younger children jumping near others.
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