Balancing

Young children have an instinct to move their bodies and practise fundamental physical skills. Early childhood educators will be familiar with children who gravitate towards objects they can balance on. Balancing is challenging and fun!

Balancing is a gross motor skill that involves maintaining a controlled body position while performing a task. There are two types of balance: static and dynamic.

Children use static balance when they are still, like sitting on a chair or freezing like a statue. They use dynamic balance when they are moving, like running or climbing.

The educational benefits of balancing include gross motor development.

EYLF learning outcomes

Balancing aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework as it supports physical learning (3.2).

Learning experiences

Balance in different ways

Children can try balancing in different ways. Balance using equipment: balance beams, wobble boards, stepping stones, tightropes or stilts.

Balance by yourself or with a partner: stand on one leg or try a yoga pose.

Integrate balancing into games

Educators can integrate balancing into well-known games. Organise an obstacle course where children are required to balance. Freeze on one leg during musical statues, or play Twister.