Among the many creative physical games enjoyed by children and adults alike, the ‘Jeu de la Crevasse’ stands out for its simplicity, energy, and imaginative foundation. Literally translating to ‘Crevasse Game’ in English, this activity requires no equipment and can be played indoors or outdoors, making it a favorite in schools, camps, or informal gatherings. The basic concept involves pretending that the floor or designated area is a dangerous crevasse, and players must avoid ‘falling in.’ While fun is the main objective, the game also subtly encourages movement, balance, agility, and social cooperation.
Origins and General Concept
Simple but Evocative Imagination
The idea of ‘Jeu de la Crevasse’ draws from natural disaster scenarios, where a large crack in the ground opens and people must navigate across it safely. While there are no actual physical dangers, the power of imagination transforms everyday settings like a living room, gym, or park into dramatic landscapes filled with invisible perils. Children especially love this kind of narrative-based play, where simple rules combine with high-stakes storytelling.
French Cultural Roots
The name may be French, but similar versions of this game are played globally under different names such as ‘The Floor is Lava’ or ‘Don’t Touch the Ground.’ In the French-speaking world, ‘Jeu de la Crevasse’ has its own flavor and storytelling twist, often incorporating adventure and survival themes.
How to Play Jeu de la Crevasse
Basic Setup
To begin the game, players identify which areas represent safe zones and which represent the crevasse. Usually, the floor or ground is considered the crevasse, while furniture, pillows, or designated areas act as safe stepping points. The goal is to move from one end of the space to the other without touching the crevasse.
- Number of players: 2 or more
- Ideal age: 4 and up
- Materials needed: None required; optional cushions, mats, or markers
- Space: Can be played in a room, garden, playground, or gym
Rules of the Game
- Players must not step into the ‘crevasse’ zone (the floor or ground).
- Only designated objects or spaces are considered safe to step on.
- If a player touches the crevasse, they ‘fall in’ and must start over, complete a challenge, or be temporarily out of the game depending on the version.
- The game continues until everyone has crossed or until only one player remains who hasn’t fallen.
Creative Variations
Timed Challenge
Add a countdown timer to increase urgency. Players must cross the area before the time runs out. This version adds excitement and encourages fast thinking and quicker movements.
Obstacle Adventure
Set up obstacles such as chairs, ropes, or low tables as part of the course. Players must climb, crawl, or jump across these items to avoid the crevasse. This brings a physical challenge component that is both fun and fitness-friendly.
Tag Version
Designate one player as the ‘seeker’ who tries to tag others while they navigate the crevasse course. If tagged, a player becomes the new seeker. This adds a competitive edge and energizes the game even further.
Story-Based Play
Enhance the narrative by introducing a story: perhaps an earthquake hit, or players are explorers trying to cross a dangerous canyon. Add elements like treasure at the end or monster guards to bring imagination to life.
Benefits of Playing Jeu de la Crevasse
Physical Development
Though it may seem like just a game, ‘Jeu de la Crevasse’ improves motor skills, coordination, and balance. Players jump, stretch, and maneuver through different positions, giving them a subtle yet effective workout.
Cognitive and Emotional Growth
The game enhances spatial awareness and decision-making. Players must assess their environment, calculate movements, and adjust to new obstacles. It also encourages resilience if a player falls, they simply get back up and try again.
Social Skills and Teamwork
Especially when played in groups, this game promotes interaction, negotiation, and teamwork. Players may help each other across, suggest routes, or collaborate to overcome tricky paths. It teaches empathy and cooperation alongside the fun.
Safety Considerations
Childproofing the Environment
If playing indoors, ensure that the area is free from sharp corners or fragile objects. Move furniture to make space and use soft items like cushions to create stepping points.
Supervision for Younger Players
Although the game is generally safe, supervision is recommended for younger children. An adult or older player can help ensure fair play, offer guidance, and step in if someone is about to slip or fall awkwardly.
Adapting the Game for Different Ages
For Toddlers
Make the crevasse zone smaller and the safe areas bigger. Remove obstacles that may be too challenging, and focus more on encouragement and participation than winning or losing.
For Older Children
Introduce competition or puzzles. Maybe they need to collect items while crossing, solve riddles, or complete challenges before reaching the end. This stimulates their mind while keeping the physical component intact.
For Teens and Adults
Turn it into a group-building or fitness activity. Add more advanced rules, time limits, or complex routes. It can even be used in theater warm-ups or team-building workshops to spark creativity and movement.
Jeu de la Crevasse as a Learning Tool
Classroom Integration
Teachers can use the game as a physical break between lessons or integrate educational content. For example, place flashcards or questions on each stepping zone, and players must answer to proceed.
Therapeutic Uses
In child therapy or occupational therapy settings, the game helps with physical coordination and emotional regulation. It allows children to safely explore boundaries, build confidence, and express themselves through movement.
Jeu de la Crevasse is more than just a game it’s an experience driven by creativity, imagination, and movement. Whether you’re a child seeking adventure, a parent looking for a fun activity at home, or an educator wanting to energize your class, this simple yet powerful game delivers joy, connection, and healthy activity. Its flexible nature makes it suitable for almost any setting, requiring only space and a sense of play. The floor becomes danger, the cushions become stepping stones, and every jump is a victory against an imaginary world that invites players to leap, laugh, and live fully in the moment.