How it works
Skippers line up at right angles to the rope. Turned so the skippers run with it, the rope swings away from them and each one runs underneath and out the other side. Perfect for Nursery, Reception and Year 1.
skip-hop tipCheck the direction: turners point at the skippers, then move their arms down to start. That sends the rope the right way.
Coaching notes for Under the Moon
Step-by-step teaching, common faults and how to fix them, class set-up and video.
- Teaching steps, the shape check and spot the fault
- Video with slow motion
- Class set-up, tips and a printable coaching card
Coaching notes and videos are part of the All-Access Skip Pass.
Under the Moon: Yellow Award
Yellow Award: Rope Ready
Part of the Yellow Award test.
To pass, a pupil:
- Runs under a turning long rope (Under the Moon)
- Hops five times on each leg (without a rope)
- Holds the handles of their own rope and swings it over the head
- Swings, stops and jumps their own rope 5 times (not continuous skipping)
Also a related skill for the White Award.
In the scheme of work
Where this skill is taught in the skip-hop scheme of work.
- EYFSLesson 4: Under the MoonReady, Steady, Jump! · Reception
- EYFSLesson 6: Award day: White and YellowReady, Steady, Jump! · Reception
What you need
One rope of a Double Dutch pair is just right for Under the Moon. skip-hop ropes are designed specifically for the skills shown on this site.
SEND and inclusion
Make it work for everyone
Ideas for pupils with SEND, and for anyone who finds Under the Moon hard. Change one thing at a time.
What usually makes it hard: Knowing when to run.
- CommunicationThe turner says “go”, or taps the pupil’s shoulder.
- PeopleAn adult runs under with the pupil, holding hands.
- EquipmentA slower, higher turn.
Seated or no-jump version. Wheel under the turning rope. Turners stand wider apart and make a high arc.
An adapted pass is still a pass on the Skipping Awards. Use your own judgement and each pupil’s care plan. More in SEND and inclusion at skip-hop. Pupil struggling to get started? Try Lee’s tips for pupils who are struggling to skip.