While offering a balanced diet to your little one can take up a lot of headspace when it comes to breakfast, lunch and dinner, we often over overlook supporting them to develop their physical balance. Many of us assume that their growth and development is organic and “will look after itself” but is that really the case?
Firstly, let’s have a look at what is balance? And why should we as parents, have more of an eye on it than we think…
Balance is a fundamental aspect of human development, and it plays a vital role in a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. From learning to walk or striving to improve in sports, balance is a key factor in a child’s overall well-being. Lets explore the Importance of balance in child development, what challenging balance may looks like, and how to support children who struggle with balance issues.
The Importance of Balance in Child Development
Balance is not just about not falling over (try and name me one person who has never fallen over); it is a complex skill that requires the integration of multiple sensory systems and coordination of muscles. A well-developed sense of balance is crucial for a child’s overall development in various ways.
1. Physical Development:
· Gross Motor Skills: Balance is essential for the development of gross motor skills, including crawling, walking, running, and jumping. These skills are foundational for a child’s physical development.
· Fine Motor Skills: Balance contributes to the development of fine motor skills, such as handwriting and other tasks that require precision and control.
· Muscle Strength: Achieving and maintaining balance involves the use of different muscle groups, leading to improved strength and muscle coordination.
2. Cognitive Development:
· Spatial Awareness: Balance helps children understand their spatial orientation and navigate their environment more effectively.
· Problem Solving: Balance challenges children to solve problems, such as how to keep their equilibrium while moving or performing specific activities.
· Focus and Concentration: Balancing activities demand concentration and mental focus, enhancing cognitive development.
3. Emotional Development:
· Self-confidence: Successfully achieving balance-related milestones, like learning to ride a bike, boosts a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem.
· Emotional Regulation: Balance activities can help children develop better emotional regulation, as they learn to manage frustration and fear when faced with physical challenges.
What children struggling with their balance may look like?
Falls, bumps, cuts and the odd faceplant are all part of navigating childhood so while some degree of variability in balance skills is normal in children, chronic or severe balance issues can negatively impact a child’s development and overall well-being. Here are some signs that may indicate poor balance in a child:
1. Frequent Falls: Children who often fall or stumble, even during simple activities, may have balance difficulties. This may include tripping over their own feet or struggling to maintain their balance while standing.
2. Delayed Milestones: Not reaching typical developmental milestones related to balance, such as walking, hopping, or riding a bike, may be an indication of a child struggling with their balance.
3. Poor Coordination: Difficulty coordinating movements or performing tasks that require balance, such as riding a scooter or catching a ball, may indicate balance problems.
4. Dizziness or Nausea: Experiencing dizziness or nausea during activities that involve balance, like spinning or swinging, may suggest issues with the vestibular system.
5. Reluctance to Play or Participate: Children with balance difficulties may become hesitant to engage in physical activities, leading to reduced physical fitness and social isolation.
How to Support a Child with Balance Issues
Just like a balanced diet, we (You) need to supporting a (your) childs with their balance to help them overcome challenges and thrive in their development. The best part however, is that there are tons of funs ways to do this. Here is just a few. Here are some strategies to assist children in improving their balance:
Here at Now:
· Remember when you dad used to swing your around like you were nothing, well, that’s a great starting point as rough and tumble games, many of which are innate in children already, are a great source for improving balances.
· Anything that involves pushing or pulling is also a great way developing a child’s balance. Using your body against your sibling, friend (or foe) in a safe and fun manner will expose your child to lots and lots of micro adjustments and muscle tension needed to defend one’s patch
General:
· Activities that involve proprioceptive input (sensory input from muscles and joints) and vestibular stimulation (related to balance and spatial orientation) can help improve a child’s balance. Examples include swinging, jumping on a trampoline, or balance board exercises.
· Promote physical activities that challenge balance, such as climbing, swinging, and playing on balance beams. These activities can improve a child’s balance skills in a fun and engaging way.
Future:
· If you suspect a significant balance issue, consult a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or a physical therapist. They can assess the child’s condition and provide guidance.
· For children with severe balance issues, occupational therapy can be a valuable resource. Occupational therapists can create individualized programs to address balance difficulties and associated developmental delays.
Consult a Healthcare Professional:
If you suspect a significant balance issue, consult a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or a physical therapist. They can assess the child’s condition and provide guidance.
Encourage Active Play:
Promote physical activities that challenge balance, such as climbing, swinging, and playing on balance beams. These activities can improve a child’s balance skills in a fun and engaging way.
Practice Core Strengthening Exercises:
Strong core muscles are essential for balance. Engage the child in exercises that strengthen their core, such as planks, bridges, and yoga poses.
Support Proprioception and Vestibular Systems:
Activities that involve proprioceptive input (sensory input from muscles and joints) and vestibular stimulation (related to balance and spatial orientation) can help improve a child’s balance. Examples include swinging, jumping on a trampoline, or balance board exercises.
Balance Training Tools:
Consider using balance training tools, such as wobble boards, stability balls, and balance cushions, to challenge the child’s balance in a controlled environment.
Patience and Encouragement:
Be patient with the child and provide positive reinforcement. Celebrate small achievements and offer support as they work on improving their balance.
Occupational Therapy:
For children with severe balance issues, occupational therapy can be a valuable resource. Occupational therapists can create individualized programs to address balance difficulties and associated developmental delays.
Address Fear and Anxiety:
If a child’s balance issues are causing fear or anxiety, work with them to build confidence and emotional resilience. Encourage them to face their fears gradually and with support.
Conclusion
Balance is a multifaceted aspect of child development that plays a crucial role in physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Recognizing the significance of balance and identifying balance issues in children are essential steps in helping them thrive. By providing appropriate support, encouragement, and access to resources, we can assist children in developing better balance and reaching their full potential in all aspects of their lives. Every child deserves the opportunity to balance their way to a brighter future.
