Keeping your kids active and engaged is so important, but during any time of year, kids can grow bored of their usual games and ways of playing. Even though boredom can be a challenge, it can also be a chance to incorporate mindfulness, movement, and creativity into playtime. The best part is that ordinary toys like beach balls can provide alternative screen-free activities for indoors and outdoors.
Here are some easy ways that you can use a beach ball that are sure to liven up play and learning time no matter the setting.
Get Moving
- Use the ball as a bowling ball to knock over empty plastic bottles.
- Play beach ball soccer and dribble the ball with your feet.
- Write exercises on each section of the ball – play catch and when you catch it, do the exercise that your right thumb touches.
- Keep it up! See how long you can hit the ball and keep it in the air before touching the ground.
- Secure and squeeze the ball between your legs. Then try to walk or dance while keeping the ball in place!
- Using a towel, pair children up and have them toss the ball into the air and only catch it using the towel.
- Balance the ball on different body parts. Which one works the best?
- Balance the ball on a big serving spoon while you walk. How far can you get?
Mood Booster
- Draw emojis on the ball to show different emotions. After catching the ball, identify the emotion on or near your left hand and give an example of a time you felt that way.
- Set the ball on your tummy and watch it move up and down with big belly breaths.
- Write acts of kindness on it – when you catch it, do that act that your right thumb touches.
- Write some icebreaker questions all over the ball. Then take turns tossing it back and forth with another person or group of people. When you catch the ball, answer the question that your right thumb lands on.
Use your Imagination
- Play hot potato and pass the ball as quickly as possible.
- Draw animals on the ball then toss back and forth. When you catch it, act like the animal that your right thumb touches.
- Be the sun and revolve your “planet” around your waist without dropping the beach ball. Try to do it 10 times for an extra challenge!
- Decorate the ball with words and pictures of your favorite things.
Ready for More Fun? You Might Also Like:
5 Fun and Fit Ways to Spend a Rainy Day
fit Field Day: An Inclusive Workout for Kids
8 Fun and Easy Equipment Free Activities Kids Love
