Balloon Gymnastics

What you'll need

Baby lying on back on soft surface. Two balloons tied securely but loosely to baby's wrists with string/ribbon. Room should have enough space for baby to move arms freely. Parent positioned nearby to assist with rolling.

How it works

1. 1~30s

   Start with your child lying on their back. Gently tie one balloon to each wrist — make sure they're secure but comfortable. Now just watch for a moment as your child discovers the balloons. Does they notice them? You might see them moving their arms, looking at the colors, or trying to bring hands together. Tell me what movements you observe.

   Watch for: Baby uses arm movements intentionally while watching visual stimuli, showing developing upper body control.

2. 2~35s

   Now let's help your child roll onto their tummy. Gently guide them by supporting their hip and shoulder — roll them slowly to one side and then onto their belly. Once they's on their tummy, watch what happens. Does your child try to push up with their arms? Does they lift their head to look at the balloons? Notice how they manages this position change.

   Watch for: Baby participates in rolling transition with some body control, showing readiness for independent rolling.

3. 3~40s

   Now that your child is on their tummy, let's encourage some rocking. Gently place your hands on their hips and give a little side-to-side motion — like a gentle rock. Watch what happens. Does your child start to rock on their own? Does they lift their arms to make the balloons move while rocking? This rocking motion is great preparation for crawling and sitting.

   Watch for: Baby rocks body side-to-side while on tummy, showing core strength and balance development.

What this develops

• ◆Milestone
  Crawling Position

  Movementprimary

Visual example