|
Skillastics "Character Is Cool" is now my third Skillastics set that I've had the pleasure of owning (with the other 2 being Fitness and Speed Stacks). Why? Simply put, the product is amazing. From the quality of the product, to the ease of implementation, to the engaging activities, each any every product I have owned have been great for my students. Click on the button above to go to the Skillastics website. Watch the video below to find out more about the "Character Is Cool" product.
|
|
FlingGolf is sport that has been around for a few years. Recently I discovered it while looking around on YouTube. This is the video I saw...
After being instantly interested, I was able to obtain 2 sticks of different sizes. First off, I was very impressed with the packaging. Second, right out of the box I could see it made made very well. Sturdy, and yet, lightweight...
So, I took it out on a soccer field for a few throws with my son. After a few short throws I was able to launch the golf ball a good 125-150 yards. I'm serious when I say this...I may never play another round of golf with golf clubs again. I absolutely LOVE this thing. Below are some short instructional videos showing you how to use the Fling Stick. Click on the link above to go to their website for more information about how to order and their ever growing list of golf courses who welcome FlingGolf players.
|
|
|
|
|
|
For those who either do not have enough outdoor space, or any outdoor space at all, they also sell soft foam golf balls to use in Phys. Ed. Classes.
Finally, watch their Shark Tank segment below. Yes, I said SHARK TANK!!!
Finally, watch their Shark Tank segment below. Yes, I said SHARK TANK!!!
Back in the mid 2000's I was teaching at a K-8 school. The 7th & 8th graders were allowed to pick electives. Each elective lasted for one quarter of the school year. In thinking of some new and unique course titles, I came up with "Sport & Games From A-Z". When it came to coming up with an activity for the Letter "X", I was stumped. That was until I stumbled across the X-Zylo in a science catalog. I immediately ordered 12 of them and let the students explore throwing them out on the soccer field. Needless to say, I loved them. Click on the video below for more info, and the link above to order.
|
I'm always looking for unique and engaging activities. Especially if they can be used outside. ROLLORS is one of those games that combines a few classic games and puts them together in a fun and interesting way. Think of this game as a combination of bowling, bocce, and horseshoes.
The skill of underhand rolling is similar to underhand throwing except it is done at a low level. Utilizing the game of ROLLORS can help students to work on that skill in a fun an engaging way. SHAPE America's Grade Level Outcomes... |
|
As you can see from the picture below, the game comes with everything you need to play right out of the box. I was very impressed with the quality of the game. Solid and yet lightweight enough to carry and bring with you virtually anywhere as it all packs up into a convenient carrying case.
|
|
|
It gets better!!! An activity guide has been created with all sorts of activities that can be used in Physical Education!!! Who doesn't love that??? Below is a link to the guide you see to your right.
Lastly, using a clip from the ROLLORS YouTube channel, I made a short video on how to play. Great game. Now, go get one!!!
|
|
ACTIVE! Toss Up Dice By GOPHER
(added 3/31/21)
|
I've used dice in my classes ever since I started teaching. The randomness of a dice roll has a certain appeal. Never knowing what will come up adds excitement and engagement. Over the years I have purchased every type of dice you can think of. Large dice, small dice, math dice, letter dice, 12 sided dice, 20 sided dice, the list goes on and on. I have even used a version of what you see here. Pocket dice are not new. In fact, I have used those too. But GOPHER has made it better. How? Several ways. First, these dice are made to last. Made of durable vinyl (think gymnastics mats) these may be the last dice you ever purchase. Second, one of the issues I've had with previous pocket dice is that the cards sometimes slide out when the dice is rolled. When you slide the cards inside the GOPHER dice, they fit snuggly. Definite improvement. I love these so much I'm ordering more. Two thumbs WAAAAAAAY up!!!
|
|
After receiving a set I started making other card sets such as what you see below. I purchased some clip art and made my own cards that are 4 inch square. The possibilities are virtually endless.
|
DOT DICE
|
LOCOMOTOR DICE
|
ANIMAL WALK DICE
|
|
In my search for simple to use and affordable games I came across Playout. What is Playout? Here's a description from their website...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In the constant search for fun and engaging activities, I came across Soccer Billiards. The premise is easy. Use your feet instead of a pool cue! I'm most impressed with the quality construction. After I inflated all of them, I set them up and played a game. On a gym floor they rolled true to form. This is a great activity as a station (think 2 vs 2 like a regular billiards game) or use the balls as an addition to your foot skills unit in a variety of creative ways. Watch the video below for some more ideas...
|
|
|
Once again, Gopher has created a product to help with the ever changing world when it comes to Physical Education. Here is the description from the Gopher website:
My PE Packs were designed to promote physical activity and safety by providing every student their own equipment. Each My PE Pack can be used in any setting and by students of all ages and abilities. My PE Packs include access to FREE, easy-to-implement activities that stress physical distancing while avoiding the need to share equipment. My PE Packs are a safe, effective solution that address the challenges of equipment sanitation, physical distancing, and multiple learning environments! As you can see from the picture to the right, My P.E. Pack comes with many different types of equipment to address the many outcomes we as P.E. teachers teach to our students. In addition to the pack you see to the right, there are other equipment configurations as well... |
Here is the My P.E. Pack I have...
|
|
|
Finally, here is an unboxing and review video that explains it all...
|
I first learned about Puckleboard from one of the creators of the game. After meeting in person and trying out the game, I was convinced it was something I'd like to review. Why? Because it's fun!!! Not only fun, but it's a unique game that uses a variety of skills that could transfer to the Physical Education setting. First off, I love the fact that it's a target game. Not only that, but there are a variety of ways to play the game, making it a versatile piece of equipment. Watch the video below to learn how to play...
|
|
Also, watch the video below to see some more info and watch my son and I play the game...
The possibilities with a game like this are endless. Not only does it work on the skill of throwing (specifically the frisbee throwing motion), it also work on concepts like proper force, scoring, strategy, and cooperation. In addition, you have the ability to incorporate academic subjects such as math into the game as well. Watch this video to see how...
Well, that's about it! A great game that is super fun with a variety of different ways to play. Phys.Ed.Review tested, Phys.Ed.Review approved.
|
I love GOPHER. In being forward thinking in view of the current situation where schools are doing remote learning, GOPHER has come up with a great option for students at home...HOME PE.
These packs are designed for parents to keep kids active at home during this remote learning period. Home PE is a great way to get kids active at home while while schools are closed and many after school activities and summer camps are cancelled. All of the activities (200+) are written by expert PE teachers (Dr. Pangrazi, Aaron Beighle, Maria Corte, Chris Nichols, Jessica Shawley) and includes individual, partner and family activities. Packs include a wide variety of PE equipment that provide unique challenges to kids each week. After receiving 3 of the 6 weeks and taking a look at them, I have to say I'm EXTREMELY IMPRESSED. Not only is the equipment high quality (something I've come to expect from GOPHER), but the subscriptions are VERY AFFORDABLE. For the basic subscription it's $170. For the Deluxe subscription it's $250. Both come with FREE SHIPPING. Also, with GOPHER you have the ability to earn $10 for every subscription pack purchased. Win/Win. |
|
|
You also have the ability to add on to your subscription choice. Here are some examples...
Finally, I made an unboxing video showing what comes in 3 of the deluxe packs...
Week 2 - Jumping & Skipping Deluxe Pack
Week 3 - Throwing, Catching, & Juggling Deluxe Pack
Week 6 - Fitness Deluxe Pack
THANK YOU GOPHER for always helping our students to remain active and learning for all these years!!!
Week 2 - Jumping & Skipping Deluxe Pack
Week 3 - Throwing, Catching, & Juggling Deluxe Pack
Week 6 - Fitness Deluxe Pack
THANK YOU GOPHER for always helping our students to remain active and learning for all these years!!!
Flip Challenge Game
(added 2/17/20)
|
In my endless quest for new and innovative products, I am constantly searching for those items that are both fun to play, as well as have multiple uses. QB54 fits the bill on both accounts. That being said, I'm not 100% sure how to describe the product. It's a throwing and catching game. It's a kicking game. It's a cooperative game. It's a tag game. It's all of those at the same time!!! Watch the video, then keep reading below for some more info...
|
So, here are my thoughts...I love it. I love the fact that it's a game that works on so many different skills and outcomes. I also love the portability of the product. When you take it out of the box, it looks like this...
After you take everything out, here is what you will find.
Everything you need to play the game right out of the box.
Everything you need to play the game right out of the box.
When you put it all together (which takes less than 5 minutes) here it what it looks like...
So there you have it. Great game, great fun. There are activity guides available (created by Jessie Zimmerman) that give you a variety of simple and easy to use games. Click on the buttons for the activity guides. QB54 is definitely Phys.Ed.Review approved!!!
Flaghouse Activity Blocks
(added 11/28/19)
|
I love these things. Not only are they super affordable (A set of 50 is under $100) but they also have a ton of uses in Physical Education. Need some ideas to get you started? Flaghouse provides a FREE activity guide...
Still need more ideas? Look on the "Projector Activities" tab on this website under "Phys.Ed.School", "Choose Your Challenge", and "The Super Seven" to see a variety of skill based activities. Click on the link below to order.
|
|
Knock 'Em
(added 11/28/19)
|
I first learned of this game on Twitter. My first impression where I received it was "Wow, this is REALLY well made!!!" Super durable towers with equally durable balls and a heavy duty carrying bag. Created by a 14 year old! Click on the video below to see some game options. I know that as soon as some read this review, they will think of other creative ways to use Knock 'Em. If you do, let me know!
|
Brain Break Dice
(added 11/28/19)
|
I first saw these when looking for pocket dice on Amazon. First off, they are designed to be used in the classroom setting to get kids up and moving after sitting for a long time. But there is no reason they can't be used in Physical Education too!!! Plus, they are super cheap. Sold through Oriental Trading Company.
|
|
Air Squares
(added 8/3/19)
|
I first learned of Air Squares on Twitter. After watching some of their videos, and visiting their website, I was able to obtain a set. I have to say it is very cool. I love the fact that it's easy to set up, and breaks down into a convenient carrying case. Want to know how to play? Watch this first...
How Air Squares is played…
If the ball comes into your square, you must return the ball up through your square and into an opponent’s square or you’re out! The goal of the game is get to King/Queen square and stay there! To begin 4 Air Squares, pick one corner to be the King/Queen square. For 9 Air Squares, the King/Queen square is the middle square. The player here serves to begin play by serving to any square. When a player is out, every other player moves up one square closer (rotating counterclockwise) to the King/Queen square. The player who is out goes back to the entry square, or to the back of the queue waiting to enter the game. I was fortunate enough to meet the creator of Air Squares at the PE Institute 2019. Greg Griffin and his son Corey were there and set up a set for all to try out and play. Here is a video from that conference... |
How to set it up...
|
Stretch Armstrong
(added 6/24/19)
If you grew up in the 70's and 80's you have probably heard, if not had, a Stretch Armstrong. Put simply, he's a doll that you can stretch...a lot. When thinking about something new and fitness related that I could get my students interested in, this came to mind. After ordering one off of Amazon I showed it to my students and had it at a station one day as something they could try along with other options. Well, it was a big hit. They ALL wanted to see how far they could stretch him. GREAT upper body workout too. Check him out...
Spinnerball
(added 11/23/18)
|
I came across Spinnerball for the first time at the Eastern District SHAPE conference in Vermont in January of 2018. After seeing it again at the Massachusetts annual conference I knew I had to get a set. I was able to play it there and I was instantly impressed at how easy it was to play. The inventor (Mark) walked me through how to set it up, what the materials were made of, how to score, and where to find more info on the product. It's a game for all ages too. Go to their website to see more videos and how to order for your classes. Phys.Ed.Review approved!!!
|
Speed Stacks Skillastics
(added 11/22/18)
|
My first experience with Skillastics was when I was teaching at a K-8 school in northern New Hampshire. At the time I purchased the "Fitness Skillastics" activity kit from a Physical Education catalog. Right away I noticed the quality of the product and how easy it was to implement in my classes. Fast forward to this year when, researching Skillastics again, I was able to get the "Speed Stacks Skillastics" activity kit. Still high quality? Yes. Still easy to implement? Yes. Do I recommend it and all their other products? You better believe it. The gamification of sports like Sport Stacking, Soccer, and Tennis make this the perfect addition to your Physical Education program. In addition, academic concepts like reading, math, and nutrition are all easily implemented. Click on the link to the right to go their website for more information and how to order. Phys.Ed.Review approved!!!
|
|
Play Soccer Golf
(added 10/5/18)
|
Soccer Golf is a new and super cool game that can be played anywhere. What I like most about it is this...IT CAN BE PLAYED ANYWHERE!!! It comes in a convenient carrying case that zips up and is easy to carry around. Many applications in Physical Education. Watch the video below to see an unboxing and more info.
|
US GAMES CATCH-A-Cup
(Added 6/13/18)
Kikingrass
(Added 6/12/18)
BulziBucket
(added 3/25/18)
|
In browsing the internet one day I stumbled across this product. The best way to describe it is like this...
Cornhole meets hacky sack meets horseshoes. After obtaining a couple of sets I thought about how I could use them in Physical Education. Below you will see a video of one idea. Really, any activity that requires a target can be used with Bulzibucket. Also, they are REALLY well made and collapse into a handy backpack for easy transportation. Definitely one of my favorite new products this year. Click on the link to go to their website. |
FloormarX
(added 2/3/18)
|
It's always been said that a really good product solves a problem. Here's the problem: You want to put markers on the floor for students to stand behind for a variety of P.E. activities. So what do you use? Poly spots? They always move. Floor tape? It's a pain to lay down and it eventually peels up.
Enter FloormarX. Think of this product as a magic marker for your floor. Watch this video and then I'll be back to tell you why this is one of my all time favorite products... |
Pretty awesome. I have tested this product for the past several weeks and I have to say, I absolutely love it. Here are some pics from my floor...
|
|
|
The pack come with two colors (Blue & Green) as well as the convenient cleaning wipes for $34.95. Each marker is the equivalent of 5 rolls of floor tape. I love this product so much I'm going to purchase a pack for another P.E. teacher in my district. I met the creator Mitch and his father who are both Phys. Ed. peeps. Nicest people. Go to their website to learn more. Thank you FloormarX!!!
Kan Jam
(added 8/20/17)
|
I love frisbee. Always have. I love frisbee golf. I love ultimate frisbee. Safe to say, I love all things frisbee. So when I saw Kan Jam a few years ago, I knew I'd love it. Now I know there are many variations and companies that make Kan Jam style games but let's be honest. Nothing is like the original. Super fun and challenging and can be played virtually anywhere. Click on the link below to go to the official Kan Jam website and to watch a video on how to play.
|
|
Ramp Shot
(added 5/20/17)
|
Ramp Shot takes the best of what I like about these types of games (Easy to set up, simple to play, and wicked fun) and puts them all together in a unique indoor/outdoor game. Take a look at the following video on how to play...
|
|
So there you have it. I like to think of it as a cross between horseshoes and corn hole (Games I Love). Not only is it a cooperative game, but it also works on throwing & catching (SHAPE Grade Level Outcomes: S1:E14, S1:E16, S1:M2, S1:M3, S1:H1). Click on the link to go to their website. After that, purchase a set, then get out there and play!!! Make sure you play the "Slapback" version too!
Paddle Zlam
(added 4/30/17)
|
I first heard of Paddle Zlam after a few Phys. Ed. teachers (Justin Schleider & Nick Endlick) began talking about it on Voxer during the SHAPE Boston convention. Always up for looking at new products, I began watching the game. For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the game, watch this video...
|
|
So its basically it's a combination of volleyball & pickleball. Not only is it super fun to play, but it can be used in a relatively small space and is super portable. Very affordable at $40 for the set of 4 paddles, 1 ball, and 2 Paddle Slam cones. It can also be used to cover SHAPE America's Grade Level Outcomes for short handled striking (S1.E24, S1.M12, S1.M13, S1.M14, S1.M15, S1.M16, S1.H1). Go to the following website to find out more and to order your own set...
Oh yeah, don't forget the "Paddle Pass"!!!
And if you need a "Lead Up" game to get started, try this game I created. Keep in mind, you can have two games going on at the same time! Enjoy!
Or you can use a record player (yes, I said record player) to play the above game like this...
Gopher Smart Holder Cones
(added 12/26/16)
I first saw these cones at the Eastern District Conference in Springfield Massachusetts being used by Doug Hallberg at one of his awesome sessions. I love the way that students can read the station sign even while in a standing position. There are sold in a set of 6 rainbow colors. You can purchased Gopher's signs to go along with them but I decided to create my own reusable sign using laminated posterboard with floor tape around the endges to give it a more polished look...
|
|
I then added a dry erase pocket on one side to slide a letter size station sign. The other side (because it is laminated) will work with either wet erase or dry erase markers. The best of both worlds!!!
tchoukball net alternative
(added 8/14/15)
Have you ever played Tchoukball? If you have, you know it's a great game. For those of you who haven't, you should seriously consider playing it with your students. There's only one catch: The nets can be very expensive. The average price for 2 nets is $500-$600!!! Before you say "My budget would be all gone!" I have an alternative. Toledo Sports (See Link Below) sells what are called "Toss Back Nets" for a fraction of the price. I have used these nets and I have to say I like them better than the original Tchoukball nets. Why? Price AND there is larger surface area for the students to throw at, thus making them more successful. Ready to play?
laundry baskets
(added 5/9/15)
I never thought I would use these as much as I do. Cheap with a million uses in Physical Education. From carrying equipment to using them as targets, to having students catch with them, I use them all the time.
|
|
spikeball
|
|
Do you like playing 4 Square? How about Volleyball? If so, then the game of "Spikeball" is for you. Take the side-to-side action of 4 Square and add it to the cooperation and skill of spiking in Volleyball and you have Spikeball. A great game to develop eye-hand coordination, strategy, teamwork, and agility. Spikeball comes in a bag (See mine below) which includes the Spikeball Frame, Ball(s), and all the instructions you need to get it assembled and ready to play in minutes. Only have one Spikeball set? Use it as a station. Click on the link below to go to their website and to see video of Spikeball in action. Great fun in the gym, on the playground, or virtually anywhere!!!
the robo-tagger
(added 11/28/13)
First, get a remote controlled car. Next, take two noodles and notch them so that they fit together in the shape of an "X". Next, use small bungee cords to attach the "X" to the top of the remote controlled car. To begin the game, all students are sitting on a scooter board. The object: Try not to let the "Robo-Tagger" tag you! I control the Robo-Tagger off on one side of the gym. If a student gets tagged, they have to stop, leave their scooter board, and run two laps around the gym. My kids absolutely LOVE this game!
Variation: Have all students get a partner and have them attach their scooter boards together. Object: Have the students try to tag the Robo-Tagger. This is much more difficult when the students have to work together!
Variation: Have all students get a partner and have them attach their scooter boards together. Object: Have the students try to tag the Robo-Tagger. This is much more difficult when the students have to work together!
pinwheels
(Added 9/20/13)
I got the idea to use pinwheels in class when I was flipping through an Oriental Trading Company catalog. Here are some ideas on how to use them in Physical Education class:
-Face the pinwheel away from you and walk to make the pinwheel spin
-Repeat while hopping, skipping, galloping, jumping, side sliding
-How slowly can you move while still making the pinwheel turn?
-With the pinwheel in one hand, do arms circles trying to make it spin
-Repeat using the other arm
-Turn around in a circle making the pinwheel spin. Don't get dizzy!!!
-Use your imagination!!!
-Face the pinwheel away from you and walk to make the pinwheel spin
-Repeat while hopping, skipping, galloping, jumping, side sliding
-How slowly can you move while still making the pinwheel turn?
-With the pinwheel in one hand, do arms circles trying to make it spin
-Repeat using the other arm
-Turn around in a circle making the pinwheel spin. Don't get dizzy!!!
-Use your imagination!!!
Bendable skeletons
(Added 9/4/13)
Here's a great movement awareness activity that uses rubber bendy skeletons. First, have students get a partner. Second, give each group of two a rubber skeleton. Third, ask one partner to have the skeleton, then turn around with their back to their partner. The person with the skeleton will bend it into any shape they want. When they are finished, the partner with the skeleton tuns around and shows their partner what the skeleton looks like. The partner without the skeleton must then duplicate what the skeleton is doing. After 30 seconds, switch places. I tell my students they can make it difficult, but not impossible! I bought my skeletons at Oriental Trading Company. Click on the button below to go to their website.
toss & float parachute set
(added 7/18/13)
I love these. The paratrooper attached to the parachute is a weighted beanbag. Throw the paratrooper in the air and he floats down gently to be caught by a partner. I purchased these at Lakeshore Learning. Click the button below to go to their website.
Soft White Cartoon Hands
(added 4/25/13)
I picked these up at the party store. $10 for 2. I use these for tag type games. Super soft and safe. I used to use noodles, but kids would wack each other with those. One side has padding and the other side is just fabric. I put a small "X" on the padded side so kids would know which side to tag with.
Colored Bird Feathers
(added 2/20/13)
That's right, bird feathers!!! I picked up some at Walmart and had students practice skills like:
1. Blow the feather in the air and catch it
2. Try to keep the feather in the air by continually blowing it
3. Throw the feather in the air and catch it on various body parts
4. Keep the feather up by continually striking it from hand to hand
5. Put the feather on the floor and try to blow it from one side of the gym to the other
1. Blow the feather in the air and catch it
2. Try to keep the feather in the air by continually blowing it
3. Throw the feather in the air and catch it on various body parts
4. Keep the feather up by continually striking it from hand to hand
5. Put the feather on the floor and try to blow it from one side of the gym to the other
UNO Cards
(added 11/8/12)
I know what you're thinking. How can "UNO cards" be a piece of PE equipment? Here's how. Use these to separate into 4 teams (For example - Have 22 students in your class? - Take 5 red, 5 green, 6 yellow, 6 blue). Distribute the cards to the students face down, 4 teams created in no time. You can even use the "Wild" cards for classes with odd numbers or, for example, in a class of 22 count out 5 red, 5 green, 5 yellow, 5 blue, and 2 Wild cards. See who the 2 "Wild" students are and put them on the two teams with less skilled students.
20 Sided Foam Dice
(added 8/31/12)
Great item to have in your Phys. Ed. closet. Here is an activity that you can do with 20 sided dice:
Dribbling Counting Style (Grades K-2)
-6 relay lines behind cones
-Each line has a basketball and a 20 sided die
-Place poly spots or hula hoops on the floor in a scattered formation
-On the start signal, the first student in line rolls the die and goes out to a spot/hoop and dribbles that number of times on the spot/in the hoop
-When the student finishes, they pick up the spot/hoop and they bring it back to their team
-When the first student is done, the next in line goes
-Continue until all the spots/hoops are gone
Dribbling Counting Style (Grades K-2)
-6 relay lines behind cones
-Each line has a basketball and a 20 sided die
-Place poly spots or hula hoops on the floor in a scattered formation
-On the start signal, the first student in line rolls the die and goes out to a spot/hoop and dribbles that number of times on the spot/in the hoop
-When the student finishes, they pick up the spot/hoop and they bring it back to their team
-When the first student is done, the next in line goes
-Continue until all the spots/hoops are gone