The game of hopscotch is a staple sidewalk and playground game that has endured for centuries to become one of the most widely played court games in the world today. Equal parts throwing accuracy and physical prowess, what on paper is an incredibly simple game is in reality a demanding test of stamina and skill. It is perhaps because of its deceptive simplicity that hopscotch remains such a popular children’s game. In fact, its uniquely shaped court, which can actually vary depending on where it’s played and the preferences of the players, is instantly recognizable as such.
In some places, permanent hopscotch courts exist, virtually etched into stone and concrete to provide an out-of-the-box game or three to any group of kids who wish to take advantage of it. Other times, children or their elders take a piece of street chalk and draw a court on the sidewalk or in the playground. Often this approach produces uneven hopscotch courts that rapidly deteriorate as excited boys and girls stomp their lines. Since it really isn’t worth anyone’s time to turn a sidewalk into a permanent court, there is an acceptable halfway point: paint the court onto the pavement with a hopscotch stencil. Just as stencils in general make it easy to paint smooth, crisp, professional-looking lines, a hopscotch stencil ensures that the court you create looks stylish enough for even adults to stop and consider playing.
Hopscotch stencil designs range from the standard schoolyard court to novelty styles that have alternating squares in a checkered pattern, or courts that are shaped like animals, such as fish. Whichever design you select is really a matter of personal preference. If you’re a purist, choose the traditional hopscotch arrangement. However, if you want to demonstrate a bit of variant creativity, the hopscotch court that has an alligator design may be a more satisfying purchase. In all cases, make sure your stencil is made of good quality plastic, so that it will allow you, your children, and your playmates an indefinite number of hours of fun through repeated use.
To properly paint a hopscotch stencil, first choose a flat, straight section of sidewalk pavement, taking care to minimize any cracks or lines that could disturb the integrity of the court. Once you’ve found a suitable area, begin sweeping the area, clearing it of dirt, rocks, and other debris. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself painting on dust and rocks. Then, roll out the hopscotch template and secure it to the pavement with masking tape or a similar adhesive. Next, spray or brush the paver paint over the stencil, taking care to apply the paint coat evenly. Lastly, find something else to do for an hour or so, like taking the kids for ice cream or going to the corner store for some goodies. When you return, the paint will be dry and your kids can literally jump right into the action when you remove the stencil.
A good hopscotch template is a great way to bring fun and excitement to a boring sidewalk. It would be wise to keep one on hand to encourage your children to seek out outdoor play.
