Classic
Explore tricks →Foundational throws and returns. Best for introducing measurement, cause/effect, and mindful repetition.
For educators
Standards Alignment
Every rung on the Trick Ladder and every trick category is mapped to NGSS, Common Core Math & ELA, and the CASEL SEL framework.Click any standard chip to see the exact tricks and practice sessions that demonstrate it.
NGSS
Next Generation Science Standards
CCSS Math
Common Core State Standards — Math
CCSS ELA
Common Core State Standards — ELA
SEL (CASEL)
CASEL Social-Emotional Learning
Filter
Trick Categories
Each category in the Trick Library carries a distinct teaching emphasis — from foundational physics to creative composition.
String
Explore tricks →Tricks built on a long sleeper. Prime territory for geometry, angles, and collaborative coaching.
Looping
Explore tricks →Continuous out-and-back loops. Strong fit for rhythm, rate, and cardiovascular focus.
Picture
Explore tricks →String 'pictures' like Rock the Baby and Eiffel Tower. Connects to symmetry, art, and storytelling.
Modern
Explore tricks →Contemporary string and 1A tricks. Heavy on systems thinking, modeling, and creative composition.
Ladder Rungs
The 16-rung climb is grouped into four tiers. Each rung carries its own learning targets across science, math, ELA, and SEL.
Spark
First relationship with the yo-yoLevel 1
The Clean Throw
First contact with force, gravity, and grip.
Level 2
Open trick →Sleeper (3 sec)
Time, patience, and rotational momentum.
Level 3
Open trick →Forward Pass
Direction, return, and call-and-response motion.
Spin
Picture tricks & motionLevel 4
Open trick →Walk the Dog
Friction, surface contact, and spin economy.
Level 5
Open trick →Around the World
Circular motion, arc, and spatial awareness.
Level 6
Open trick →Rock the Baby
Symmetry, pattern, and 3D string awareness.
Level 7
Open trick →The Breakaway
Side-style throws, plane awareness, and setup for string tricks.
Flow
String mounts & combosLevel 8
Open trick →Trapeze Mount
Geometry of mounts, angles, and timing.
Level 9
Open trick →Man on the Flying Trapeze
Multi-step mounts, sequencing, and proprioception.
Level 10
Open trick →Double or Nothing
Compound mounts and accumulating string wraps.
Level 11
Open trick →Brain Twister
First combo: mount, flip, dismount.
Master
Modern artistry & contributionLevel 12
Open trick →Split the Atom
Multi-stage string trick: precision, timing, and resilience.
Level 13
Open trick →Boingy Boing
Rhythm, repetition, and elastic string motion.
Level 14
Your Own Combo
Original choreography — synthesis and creative authorship.
Level 15
Teach Someone
Peer teaching: the deepest form of learning.