Balance, of course, is essential to movement skills, whether they're used for the practical (like walking) or the artistic or athletic (like dancing or playing sports). Balances occurring in a stationary position, such as standing on one foot, are known as static balances; maintaining balance while moving (for example, walking along a balance beam) is called dynamic balance.

You can make a game of the first by placing a platform on the ground and inviting your child to imagine she's a circus acrobat. Stand on the platform facing her, holding her hands, and rise onto tiptoe. How long can you stay steady? Count out loud to find out! Then challenge her to try balancing on different body parts at both high and low levels. Can she balance on two feet on tiptoes by herself? How about on two hands and two knees? On one hand and one knee?

To offer practice with dynamic balance, place a jump rope or plank on the ground and invite your child to walk it as though he were a tightrope artist!

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