Unstable surfaces:Walking over unstable surfaces (e.g. pillows, bean bags or blankets on the floor) that make the trunk work hard to maintain an upright position.
Unstable swings and moving games including suspended climbing ladders and jungle gyms. When swings move in unexpected ways it forces the trunk muscles to work harder.
Wheelbarrow walking (the child ‘walking’ on their hands while an adult holds their legs off the floor).
Swimming: Involves the body having to work against resistance of the water, thus providing better awareness of where the body is in space.
Kneeling (with no hands touching the floor) to tap a balloon back to another person.
Hopscotch: Requires the child to switch movement patterns frequently and rapidly.
Stepping stone games with big jumps (i.e. no steps between the ‘stones’) challenge a child’s balance.
Bike and scooter: Both activities require the child to continually make postural adjustments to maintain balance.
A Few Basic Balance Activities
See how long you can stand on one foot, or try holding for 10 seconds on each side.
Walk heel to toe for 20 steps. Steady yourself with a wall if you need a little extra support.
With a beanbag on your head, walk as normally as you can in a straight line.
If you find standing on one foot very challenging at first, try this progression to improve your balance:
Hold on to a wall or sturdy chair with both hands to support yourself.
Next, hold on with only one hand.
Then support yourself with only one finger.
When you are steady on your feet, try balancing with no support at all.
Remember to maintain balance, your body must be tall with your head over shoulders, shoulders directly over hips, hips over knees, knees over ankles....just like we practice in class! :)
Over time, you can improve your balance with these exercises by:
Holding the position for a longer amount of time- Challenge yourself!
Adding movement to a pose- Think along the lines of Yoga exercises
You need strong core muscles for good balance. Many stability exercises will work your abs and other core muscles. Balance skills will also require strong legs, glutes, and back muscles.
Balance Videos
Please see more balance ideas under the Video: Balance-Yoga-Stretching tab on the left side of the page.