Balance is an important part of movement and safety and is a requirement for every day activities. Balance can involve keeping two feet on the floor, or even standing on one foot. There are many activities that require balancing on one leg. Some of these are: running, stairs, kicking, and walking in varied directions.
Try these activities to improve your little one’s balance today:
- Popping bubbles: Have your child stand on one leg, and use the other foot to try and pop a bubble.
- Kicking a ball: Practice standing on one foot for 5-10 seconds prior to kicking the ball to your partner.
- Balance beam: Make your own balance beam by using a pool noodle. Practice walking up and back. If this gets too easy, walk backwards!
Some of our older blog posts that address balance are:
- Taking the Vision out of Balance
- Ball vs Platform Swing for Balance Reactions
- Balance Boards
- Fun way to work on balance reactions
- Balance Beam Ideas
The vestibular system is one of our key components of balance and helps individuals of all ages maintain visual stability. Children may experience deficits with their vestibular system for many reasons, and these deficits can impact their ability to actively participate in age appropriate activities and recreation. Here are some ideas for stimulating your child’s vestibular system:
- Vestibular Input Activities
- Sensory Processing: The Vestibular System
- Vestibular Activities
- 10 Calming Vestibular Activities
- Toys for Vestibular Development
- Why Kids Need Upside Down Play