Bring High-Energy Fun to PE with Parachute Games

PE classes are always more memorable when students are fully engaged, laughing, and working together. One activity that never fails to capture their enthusiasm is parachute games. These vibrant, high-energy activities are a favorite of mine, especially for elementary-level students.

Not only do these games create excitement, but they also help kids develop teamwork, coordination, and fitness in ways they genuinely enjoy. Whether on a sunny field or inside a gym, parachute games adapt beautifully to any space and skill level.

In this blog, I’ll share some of the best games, like Shark Attack, Tidal Wave, and Cat and Mouse. I’ll also show you how to adapt them to suit your class and space and offer tips for keeping parachutes in great shape for endless fun sessions. Let’s make parachute games the highlight of your PE program!

Why Use Parachute Games in PE?

Parachute games develop basic skills through unique group play. When children lift, shake, and move the parachute together, they learn teamwork. They work in tandem to do so, and as such, their coordination skills also improve. Fitness goes a long way, and all these games involve running, jumping, and stretching to stay active.

Best of all, parachute activities appeal to students of all abilities. They are simple enough for younger kids but adaptable to challenge older or more advanced groups. The colorful parachute also provides a visual and tactile experience that catches children’s attention and keeps them wanting to participate.

Fun Parachute Games to Try

Here are a few of my go-to parachute games that kids absolutely love:

1. Shark Attack

This classic is always a hit. One student becomes the “shark” under the parachute, while others sit around it with their legs tucked underneath. The shark’s goal is to pull players under the parachute gently. Meanwhile, everyone else works together to shake the parachute and try to keep the shark from catching them.

Adaptation Tip: For younger students, have multiple sharks to increase the fun and reduce wait times.

2. Tidal Wave

This game is all about creating big, energetic movements. Students hold the edge of the parachute and work together to make waves. You can call out challenges, like “small ripples” or “giant tidal waves,” to vary the intensity.

Adaptation Tip: Add lightweight balls or foam pieces on top of the parachute and challenge the group to keep them bouncing without letting them fall off.

There are also other wave-themed games you can try with parachutes that bring just as much excitement. For example, Big and Short Waves focuses on alternating wave heights, testing students’ ability to coordinate together. Another variation is Camp, where students create a wave and then quickly “hide” under the parachute as it falls. These games are simple to adjust and offer just as much fun with slight modifications.

3. Cat and Mouse

In this game, one participant, the ‘mouse,’ crawls under the parachute while another, the ‘cat,’ chases them. The rest of the group lifts and lowers the parachute to create obstacles for the cat. The goal is for the mouse to avoid being tagged before time runs out.

Adaptation Tip: Rotate roles frequently to ensure everyone gets a turn as the cat and mouse.

Adapting Parachute Games for Your Space

Parachute games are versatile and can work in almost any setting. As a Physical Education Specialist, you can adapt these activities to fit your class size, student needs, and available space, making them an essential addition to your teaching toolkit.

For outdoor play, ensure the ground is free of hazards like rocks or uneven patches. Indoors, make sure you have enough open space and high ceilings to allow for full parachute movement.

If you’re working with a small group, adjust the games by folding the parachute to reduce its size. For larger groups, create multiple smaller teams with their own parachutes. This allows everyone to stay active and engaged without overcrowding.

Keeping Your Parachute in Great Condition

While parachutes are built to last, constant use can show its wear and tear. Consider the following tips to keep it in good condition:

• Store Properly: Always fold the parachute neatly and place it in a dry and cool location. This helps increase the durability of the parachute. 
• Inspect for Damage: Check regularly for tears or fraying edges; repair them right away in order not to prevent any further damage.
• Clean as Needed: If the parachute gets dirty, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could weaken the fabric. Most parachutes come with a manual that lists the specific chemicals to avoid—be sure to give it a quick read for best results. This small step can go a long way in keeping your parachute safe and durable for years of play.
• Limit Rough Play: Encourage the children to avoid stepping on the parachute to reduce wear and tear.

Making Parachute Games the Highlight of Your PE Class

Parachute games can add excitement to any PE class because of their fun mix of fitness and skill-building. Select interesting activities, modify them for your students, and take care of your equipment to ensure these games remain a beloved part of your program.

Try these parachute activities, and watch your students light up with laughter and teamwork. With just a bit of creativity and enthusiasm, parachute games can quickly become the highlight of your PE sessions. Let’s make every class an adventure under the parachute!