DIY Balance Beam

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Age
1 - 5
Equipment
Solid wood such as a 2x4 or 2x6 (available from local hardware stores)
Optional: Screwdriver and screws
Physical Activity

Balance

 

How to Play

A balance beam is a great addition to any space. You can easily create one by purchasing some wood from a local hardware store. There are a number of different ways that you can use this piece of equipment:

  • Simply place the plank(s) of wood on the ground and have the kids walk over, jump over and balance along the beam.
  • If you are more handy, you can cut pieces of the wood in to shorter lengths to create a higher beam or shorter stepping stones

Additionally, provide many loose pieces of wood approximately 3 feet in length for the children to build their own balance obstacle course with. This will encourage imagination, creativity and play that incorporate excitement and fear. 

Change it up / Alternatives / Additional Options

If you have someone who uses a wheelchair you can build two beams and place them the width of the wheel apart, as well as having angled pieces of wood at the start and end to assist in getting on the beam.