Fidget Ladder

Taken from: Cowstails and Cobras by Karl Rohnke

Category: Active Initiatives

Materials Needed: Ropes course element Instructions: This can be the most frustrating and difficult element on the Ropes Course. Most elements on the course are put together so that successful (satisfying) completion is realistically possible. However, there is also a good feeling in knowing that there is something on the course that must be conscientiously and often, frustratingly, worked on before success can be expected. While attempting passage on this ladder-hammock arrangement, allow the participant to use only hands and feet contact with the ladder components. Lying on the ladder or crawling up it requires no great skill and eliminates a truly great challenge of concentration and balance. Also, disallow crawling up the ladder underneath. These easier methods might be allowed with a low achievement group where the aim is successful completion. Spotting while the student is on the upper part of the ladder is necessary but on the lower part a fall comes too quickly and the student is close to the ground. Tell the participant to hold onto the ladder and try to keep his/her head and back from hitting the ground if a fall is imminent. You will find that a few falls are generally necessary before a student "gets the feel" for staying upright. One technique is to press with alternate hands and feet; i.e., when applying pressure with the right foot or hand, also apply an equal pressure with the left foot or hand. Sometimes it's helpful if other students hold the ladder until the participant get his/her balance.