The Space Station Balloon Squeeze
Purpose
This game challenges your child to think about how their body moves in space. By pushing a balloon through a tight spot, they practice motor planning and graded force. It is also a fun way to work on using two sides of the body together. Using different body parts like elbows and feet makes them aware of their physical boundaries.
Activity Steps
Steps:
- Blow up a balloon and tie it securely.
- Place two large boxes on the floor about six inches apart.
- Tell your child the balloon is a spaceship that needs to go through the narrow space station.
- Ask them to push the balloon through the gap using only their elbows.
- Once they succeed, move the boxes slightly closer together to make it harder.
- Challenge them to push the balloon through using a slow-motion crawl.
- Next, have them try to pull the balloon back through the gap using their feet!
- This helps them learn how much pressure is needed to move the balloon.
- Repeat the maze three times and cheer for every successful mission!
Safety Tip:
Adult supervision is always required when playing with balloons. If a balloon pops, pick up the broken pieces immediately to keep your child safe.
