Sitting Balloon Soccer
- Play time:
- 5 to 10 minutes
- Setup:
- 2 minutes
- Where:
- Floor
Why it helps
Sitting Balloon Soccer is a fantastic way to build your child's core strength. By sitting on the floor and using their feet, they engage their tummy muscles. This game also improves visual motor skills as they track the slow-moving balloon. It is perfect for indoor play on a rainy day. Plus, it encourages body awareness as they learn to control the force of their kicks!
Steps
- Tape a large square on a clear wall to be the 'soccer goal.'
- Blow up a balloon and tie it securely for your child.
- Have your child sit on a rug and lean back on their hands for support.
- Challenge them to lift their feet and keep the balloon in the air.
- Ask them to kick the balloon toward the masking tape goal.
- See how many goals they can score in one minute!
Safety tip: Always supervise your child during play to prevent bumps or falls. Pick up broken balloon pieces immediately.
Make it easier
- Let your child lean back on their elbows or against a couch cushion for more support.
- Move closer to the goal and tape a bigger square.
- Toss the balloon gently to your child's feet so they only need to kick, not keep it up.
Make it harder
- Have your child lift one hand off the floor while kicking, then switch hands halfway through.
- Tape two goals and call out which one to aim for just before each kick.
- Ask your child to kick with one foot only, then switch to the other foot.
What to watch for
- Notice how your child holds their trunk while the feet are up. Leaning far back or tipping to one side can mean the tummy muscles are working hard.
- Watch the force of each kick. Soft taps keep the balloon close, while big kicks send it flying past the goal.
- If the squeaky sound or the chance of a pop worries your child, use a beach ball or a soft fabric ball instead.
Where this helps in daily life
Holding the trunk steady while the legs move is the same core control kids use to sit on a stool without slumping, pull on pants and socks while seated, and pump their legs on a swing.
Need personalized support?
While these activities are great for home practice, nothing replaces the guidance of a licensed therapist. If you are in Irvine, CA or the Orange County area and have concerns about your child's Body Awareness, we invite you to connect with us.
Contact Tumble N' Dots Therapy →These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.
