Skill: Body Awareness

The sense and understanding of the location of the different body parts, as well as how they move.

The Balloon Body Bop

The Balloon Body Bop

Steps:

  • Blow up a balloon and tie it securely.
  • Tap the balloon into the air to show your child how it floats.
  • Call out a body part like Hand and help them tap it.
  • Try a harder part like Knee or Head to keep the balloon up.
  • See how many times they can tap it before it hits the floor.

Safety Tip:
Adult supervision is always required when playing with balloons. Balloons and broken pieces are a serious choking hazard. Dispose of any popped pieces immediately to keep your child safe.

The Tape Rescue Mission

The Tape Rescue Mission

Steps:

  • Cut several small strips of masking tape.
  • Press one strip gently onto your child’s knee.
  • Ask your child to find the tape on their body.
  • Encourage them to peel the tape off using their fingers.
  • Try placing tape on their elbow, foot, or hand next.
  • Cheer for them as they name each body part!

Safety Tip:
Choking Hazard. This activity involves masking tape which can be torn into small pieces. Always supervise your child to ensure they do not put tape in their mouth.

The Foil Mirror Portrait

The Foil Mirror Portrait

Steps:

  • Glue a flat piece of aluminum foil to a sturdy cardboard sheet.
  • Make sure the foil is as smooth as possible to create a mirror effect.
  • Ask your child to look at their reflection and point to their eyes.
  • Have them use a marker to draw their eyes right on the shiny foil.
  • Encourage them to add their nose, mouth, and hair to finish the portrait.
  • Use different colors to make the portrait bright and fun!

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during the activity. Ensure they handle the cardboard and foil safely. Tuck the foil edges behind the cardboard to prevent scratches.

Sitting Balloon Soccer

Sitting Balloon Soccer

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.

The Nosey Ball Maze

The Nosey Ball Maze

Steps:

  • Use your masking tape to create a winding path on a smooth floor or rug.
  • Make sure the path has a clear start and finish line.
  • Have your child get down on their hands and knees at the start.
  • Place a small ball, like a ping pong ball, right in front of their face.
  • Challenge your child to push the ball through the maze using only their nose!
  • They must keep their hands on the floor to stay steady as they move.
  • Encourage them to stay inside the tape lines until they reach the end.

Safety Tip:
Always supervise your child during floor play to ensure they do not bump their head on nearby furniture.