Question 1

What age can children learn Double Dutch?

Accepted Answer

Most children are ready to jump in from about Year 4, once they can single bounce on their own rope. In the skip-hop Skipping Awards, jumping in and bouncing 4 times is part of the Red Award (typically Years 4 to 6). Up to and including Year 4, adults should turn; from Year 5, pupils can turn with a teacher.

Question 2

How long should Double Dutch ropes be?

Accepted Answer

For school groups, two 4.5 m ropes in contrasting colours. That is long enough for two turners to stand comfortably with about a metre of each rope on the floor, and short enough for pupils to turn evenly.

Question 3

How many Double Dutch ropes does a class need?

Accepted Answer

One pair for every 4 pupils is ideal. With two pairs, run the lesson as stations so the rest of the class turns, calls and practises single bounces instead of waiting.

Question 4

What is the easiest way to get into Double Dutch?

Accepted Answer

Start inside: stand in the middle before the ropes begin and jump each rope as it comes round. Then jump in from the end, next to a turner, using the skip-hop count: one, and, two, and, step, jump.

Question 5

Which way do Double Dutch ropes turn?

Accepted Answer

Inwards. At the top of each circle the turner’s hands move in towards their middle, so the ropes take turns to tap the floor. Turning the ropes outwards is a different game, often called Double Irish.

Double Dutch Lesson Plan: Turn, Step, Jump

The Double Dutch lesson plan is free for registered schools

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