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Experimenting with Balance

About this video

The child in this clip attends a mixed-age early childhood center sponsored by a public university. Playgrounds are part of the early childhood classroom, and thoughtful planning of activities for the playground environment can help children build skills and meet standards. Bringing materials outdoors can help teachers create inviting learning centers. In this clip, the teachers have created a mini-obstacle course, where children can explore balance through balance beams and tilt boards. Three- and 4-year-old children are developing their ability to balance, and they are likely to practice this gross motor skill when opportunities are presented for them to practice as part of their play.

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Transcript

There is no speech during this movie. Please see Background Information for a description of this clip.

Benchmarks and How They Were Met

BenchmarksHow They Were Met
Physical Development and Health
19.A.ECa: Engage in active play using gross- and fine-motor skills.
Alex jumped over the balance beam and balanced on tilt boards.
Physical Development and Health
19.A.ECb: Move with balance and control in a range of physical activities.
Alex was able to walk to the balance beam and jump over it twice. He rocked back and forth on the higher tilt board and was able to dismount safely. He rocked on the shorter tilt board and dismounted safely. He stood with one foot on the ground while using the other to rock the shorter tilt board. He then ran back toward the balance beam.
Physical Development and Health
19.B.ECa: Coordinate movements to perform complex tasks.
Alex coordinated movements of arms, legs, and the rest of his body to jump over the balance beam. He bent knees and ankles and shifted his weight in order to stay on both tilt boards as they rocked.

Note: This video clip was made possible by STARnet Regions I & III with funding from the Illinois State Board of Education.

About this resource

Setting(s) for which the article is intended:
  • Child Care Center
  • Preschool Program

Intended audience(s):
  • Teachers / Service providers

Age Levels (the age of the children to whom the article applies):
Related Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards:
Reviewed: 2017