Fun on the balance beam (For YOunger or Less Experienced children)
Goal 7: Engage in a variety of activities that require static and dynamic balance.
Materials: A steady 2 x 4 inch balance beam with fall-absorbent mats for indoor activity or a similar balance beam surrounded by fall-absorbent material outdoors; floor tape.
Procedure: Demonstrate a walk across the balance beam at a slow, comfortable speed. Invite children to walk across the beam. If they are successful, suggest that they find another way to cross the beam. Stand nearby to support children if necessary. If they cannot think of any ways that are challenging, try some from this list: forward; backward; sliding; step side-ways, step together; forward, turn around, then go backward; forward, bend knees, collapse, stand, then move forward; forward, hop, forward. (Suggestions are in order of difficulty).
Safety: Allow only one person on the balance beam at a time. Children must be careful not to push or bump one another when they are on the balance beam.
To Simplify: Tape two lines (2-4 inches wide) on the floor and have the children walk between them with the suggested movements.
To Extend: Use a narrower balance beam or a higher one. Some extensions to easy levels are suggested in the preceding list of movements.
Materials: A steady 2 x 4 inch balance beam with fall-absorbent mats for indoor activity or a similar balance beam surrounded by fall-absorbent material outdoors; floor tape.
Procedure: Demonstrate a walk across the balance beam at a slow, comfortable speed. Invite children to walk across the beam. If they are successful, suggest that they find another way to cross the beam. Stand nearby to support children if necessary. If they cannot think of any ways that are challenging, try some from this list: forward; backward; sliding; step side-ways, step together; forward, turn around, then go backward; forward, bend knees, collapse, stand, then move forward; forward, hop, forward. (Suggestions are in order of difficulty).
Safety: Allow only one person on the balance beam at a time. Children must be careful not to push or bump one another when they are on the balance beam.
To Simplify: Tape two lines (2-4 inches wide) on the floor and have the children walk between them with the suggested movements.
To Extend: Use a narrower balance beam or a higher one. Some extensions to easy levels are suggested in the preceding list of movements.
