1. Seated Balance Activities
- Targets: Core strength, postural control, dynamic balance
- How to do it: Have the child straddle sit on the peanut ball (legs on each side, like riding a horse). Encourage them to reach for toys, clap, or play catch while maintaining balance.
Seated Balance
- To progress, gently rocking the ball side to side or having the child lift one foot briefly to challenge balance further.
2. Tummy Time Over the Ball
- Targets: Neck, shoulder, and trunk strength; coordination
- How to do it: Place the child on their stomach over the peanut ball with arms supported on the ball (elbows underneath shoulders. Slowly rock them forward and back, encouraging them to lift their head or reach for objects.
- To progress, roll the child forward (keeping elbows under shoulder) and their body parallel to ground and hold while they play, sing, reach for objects, etc.
3. Bridging with Feet on the Ball
- Targets: Lower body strength, core stability, motor planning
- How to do it: Have the child lie on their back with feet on the peanut ball and knees bent. Ask them to lift their hips off the ground into a bridge and hold briefly before lowering.
- To progress, roll the ball slightly or have them try with one leg at a time for single-leg bridges.
These activities can be easily modified for age or ability. Always ensure close supervision and support during exercises to maintain safety and engagement.