Players start behind the start line and traverse from start to finish by stepping only on designated “safe” objects: Lava Rocks™ and Precision Sticks™. If a player touches the floor (“the lava”), they reset to the start or have a simple “buy in” such as 5 jumping jacks to get back in the game. Run the game in a continuous flow or in timed waves; after each successful crossing, students loop back to the start.

• Place (or have students place) multiple Precision Sticks™ and Lava Rocks™  randomly to create at least two viable routes for different abilities.

• Mark a clear start and finish – use floor lines or cones.

• Space objects so most students can cross with balanced, quiet steps; add a few slightly longer gaps for challenge.

• Optional: include a Zee Rail™ or monobeam™ segment for parallel-foot balance.

1. Objective: Cross from start to finish using only safe objects—no floor touches.
2. Fault/Reset: Any floor contact = return to start and try again. 
3. (Optional) Reset Task: Students must complete a Reset Task such as “5 Jumping Jacks” 
4. Flow & Rotation: Keep students moving in lanes or timed waves to avoid pileups; after finishing, rejoin the line.
5. Progression: Make it harder by increasing distances, removing pieces, or requiring fewer total steps per crossing.

To enhance engagement and imagination, incorporate themes like:

• River Crossing: Students are crossing a river, running over alligators and turtles to get to the __________ (name a fantasy place)

• Color Filter: Only use one color of obstacle this round.

• Shape Filter: Only triangles (or only circles) count as safe.

• Attrition Mode: After each round, remove one piece (students choose).

• Challenge – Increase gaps slightly between objects.
• Challenge – Limit total steps (e.g., “finish in 8 or fewer”).
• Challenge – Silent round: aim for quiet landings throughout.
• Support – Move objects closer together.
• Support – Allow one or two free touches per attempt.
• Support – Cluster several objects as a mid-course “island” to reset balance.

Encourage partners to give concise, positive cues: Encourage quick, specific cues: “ball of foot,” “soft knees,” “reset and try,” “eyes up—plan two steps ahead.” Celebrate smooth, quiet landings and deliberate route choices.

• Add larger targets or tactile markers for students who benefit from clearer foot placements.

• Offer a hand/forearm assist on first attempts, then fade support.

• Keep lanes spaced for safe step-offs and clean restarts.

• Reverse the course – “Obstacles are lava” – works for students in wheelchairs

• Emphasize control over speed

• Normalize stepping off as a safe reset—falls are expected when learning balance

• Always start with low/flat obstacles and work up to keep risk appropriate and allow for early success

Precision Sticks™ and Lava Rocks™

Optional: Zee Rail™ or monobeam™