MV T4.08Walking a Low Balance Beam
The child walks the length of a wide, low wooden beam on a mat, then narrower beams as balance improves.
Safety
- The beam top is no more than 10 cm above the floor and sits on an impact-absorbing mat.
- The beam has non-slip feet and does not rock.
- One child on the beam at a time, with an adult beside it.
Where US guidance differs
The CPSC Public Playground Safety Handbook lists balance beams as not suitable for children 6–23 months. Montessori and Pikler settings let a walking child step onto a low board or beam when they choose, without a set starting age. This work starts at 24 months to follow the CPSC age range, keeps the beam top no more than 10 cm above the floor, and places an impact-absorbing mat along both sides.
Presentation
- 1
Lay the wide beam on the mat and check that it does not rock.
- 2
Step onto one end. Walk slowly to the other end, looking at the beam a few steps ahead, arms out to the sides.
- 3
Step off at the end onto the mat. Feet staying on the beam is the point of interest.
- 4
Invite the child to try. Walk beside them and offer one hand if they ask.
- 5
When they step off partway, let them step back on and continue.
- 6
One child on the beam at a time.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Walk the beam without holding a hand
- Walk the narrower 10 cm beam
- Walk the beam sideways
- Step over a small soft object placed on the beam
Control of error
The beam: the child feels and sees a foot come off it.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Walks the full 15 cm beam without stepping off
- Walks the 10 cm beam with one hand held or alone
- Steps off at the end instead of jumping or falling