Grip the edges of a bedsheet or blanket with at least one other person and lay a lightweight ball or soft toy in the middle. Snap the sheet up together to launch it into the air and catch it again — timing and teamwork determine how high it goes.
What you need
- a bedsheet or large blanket
- a lightweight ball or soft toy
How to do it
- 1Lay the sheet flat and have each person grip an edge or corner firmly.
- 2Place a soft ball or toy in the centre.
- 3"On three, snap it up together and see how high it goes!" Count down before each launch.
- 4Try to catch it back in the sheet, and see how many launches in a row you can manage without dropping it.
Variations
- If only two people are available: a smaller towel works for a mini version of the same toss.
- How it ends: one final 'highest launch of the day' attempt gives a clear, fun climax.
💡 Parent tip
This works surprisingly well with just one adult and one child — it doesn't need a big group to be fun.
What your child develops
- Group coordination — a good toss only works if everyone snaps at the same moment
- Timing and rhythm — counting down together builds shared timing skills
- Cooperative goal-setting — the challenge (height, catches) is shared, not competitive between players
Safety notes
- Use a soft, lightweight object only — never anything hard or breakable. Watch for nearby furniture or lights overhead.
More for “Stuck inside”
See allThe World Record Attempts
Five at-home world record challenges. The child attempts each, records the result, and tries to beat it.
Ages 6–1060–90 min
Balloon Belly Pop
Squeeze a lightly inflated balloon between your knees and pop it with a hug — loud, safe, and over in a second.
Ages 2–65–15 minHousehold items
The Temperature Relay
Carry a sponge from a bowl of ice water to a bowl of warm water and back, racing the drip.
Ages 5–1010–25 min