Practice balance by walking on a straight line or low beam. You can pretend to be the tightrope walker at the circus or a gymnast at the Olympics. You can also have a little competition to see who can stand on one foot the longest. Try weight shifting by balancing on first one foot, then the other, a precursor to hopping on one foot which is quite hard to learn. You can also try jumping straight up and landing in the same spot. Mark a spot on the floor so that you’ll know whether or not you did it. In balancing activities, show your child how to use her arms and posture to keep her balance.
Tumbling
Do some tumbling on the living room floor. Show your child how to do a forward roll, a backwards roll, and, if you can manage it, a cart-wheel. Try doing a handstand or headstand up against a wall. Be there for support to help your child learn.
Dancing is more than just a fun and enjoyable activity, although it is that as well. It’s a way to get to know your body. Young children are still learning what their bodies can do, and you can help them by encouraging playing at dance.