What to do with this activity?
Balloons are great fun, but it's important to keep an eye on your child when they are playing with a balloon! A collapsed balloon can become a choking hazard that blocks your child's windpipe, so always pay attention.
When used safely, balloons are wonderful! They are as light as air, so even a baby can make a balloon move if you dangle it near their fingers. Show them how to bat it away, and they will try and copy you. Have a look at this baby playing with a balloon. Like these parents, discourage your baby from biting the balloon. If the balloon pops, get rid of the bits that are left so that your baby can't put them into their mouth.
Your toddler will enjoy games with balloons like these:
Balloon tennis - using paper plates as rackets - courtesy of Playtalkread.
"Keep it in the air" - find a good space and bat a balloon between you. The aim is to keep the balloon from hitting the ground. Make up your own rules for a points system.
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Why am I doing this?
Play is one of the main ways that babies and toddlers learn about the world – it’s also one of the most effective ways they learn. When a child plays they refine learning skills that continue to develop during childhood and beyond.
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How can I do more?
As a parent, you are your child’s best playmate so try to spend time every day playing together. As your baby gets older, don’t try to teach them anything during play. They will learn best if they choose what to play and you follow their lead.
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