Children’s Activities to Promote Balance

As a child, I loved to walk along walls. By the age of two my daughter became fascinated with the small brick ledge in our backyard. Balance is an important part of having a strong core. It can help children in sports and overall physical fitness. Here are some fun activities to promote balance.

Balance Beam

The other day, we found a new park with a curving balance beam. My daughter was used to straight lines so it was a little difficult for her. In general, any small raised surface is great for balance. A smooth two by four is a good alternative to a balance beam. As your child becomes more proficient, the height can be raised. For some kids, walking along a string may be a first activity. Teach your kids to put one foot in front of the other and use their arms for stability.

Balance Board

When I was a child, I had something called a pogo ball. It had a ball in the middle of a disc where I rested my feet. You could jump, balance or sway. Although this is technically an 80s toy, I noticed they still sell them. For younger kids, there are balance boards that help with balance and coordination.

One Legged Exercise

Standing on one foot is one exercise that promotes balance. As your child masters the one-legged stand, have him or her try jumping on one foot. Then, try reaching out the opposite arm and touching the ground. Another idea is to do a one-legged knee bend. Just make sure the child’s knee doesn’t go over their ankle. For those having difficulty with these exercises, try giving the child a chair for support.

Yoga

Yoga is a fun way to improve balance and flexibility. One simple pose is called the tree pose. The child stands on one leg and then bends the other leg so it rests near the knee. Then, extend the arms outward like tree branches. Play some calm music and encourage kids to breathe deeply.

Skateboarding

You may think that your child is too young to skateboard. However, when my daughter was two, she began gravitating towards the sport. Skateboarding, surfing and bicycle riding are excellent activities for balance. Make sure to get a helmet and pads to protect kids from injury.

These activities are great stepping stones to enhance athletic performance, core strength or just for fun.

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