Jump Rope

When do kids learn how to jump rope? (I actually never figured it out. I'm extremely uncoordinated ). DD is having her 4th birthday in 2 weeks and I'm stumped. I'm thinking she might be too young. What about some big stilts (the kind with the big feet and you hold on to the rope)?

It was so easy last year. She was obsessed (to put it mildly) with the princesses. This year she frowns on anything related to princesses and it's all about bugs and dinosaurs. She claims that she wants a dump truck, too.

So moms of boys. . .what are some good gift ideas?

My 3 and a half can't (but tries) and my almost 7 can. I think she has been jump-roping for at least the last year? I can't remember! I think a 4 would have fun with a jumprope.

My 6 year old can't but my 9 year old can and has been going crazy with hers in the last month. I think it depends on their desire to learn and if they are willing to practice.

[alison]

Ropes that are marketed as jump ropes are really hard to use. You know, the kid-style plastic ones?

My dad went to a hardware store and cut off a piece of heavy duty rope that was at the right length and weight for me. They seem easier to jump with than something lightweight when you're first learning.