Linda Lilly's Occupational Therapy Blog

Balloon Games and Activities

Build gross motor, eye-hand coordination, and crossing over the midline with completing these balloon activities.

• Keep the balloon in the air using both hands or only one hand at a time.
• Balance the balloon on your hand or long-handled spoon while walking around the room.
• Keep the balloon in the air by hitting it with your foot, knee, elbow, or head.
• Hit the balloon up and turn in a circle before hitting it again.
• Keep the balloon in the air by blowing it up.
• Hit the balloon up. See how many times you can clap before hitting the balloon again.
• Keep two balloons in the air at the same time.

Keep it Moving and Don’t Let it Drop

Perfect for indoors for one or more children.  Keep the balloon in the air and don’t let it touch the ground.  See how long you can keep it in the air without it touching the group.  Be sure to have adequate space and free from fragile items and tripping hazards.

Balloon Tennis

Clear a large space, free from tripping hazards and breakables.  Blow up a balloon, use long-handled spoons as tennis racquets and play a game of indoor tennis.  Hit the balloon back and forth using the long-handled spoons, not letting it touch the ground.

Balloon Waddle Races

This is perfect game to play outdoors with two or more kids.  Place a balloon between their knees and race to the finish line without dropping or bursting their balloon.

Balloon and Spoon Race

This is a great game for two or more kids.  It is much like the traditional egg and spoon race, but instead use long-handled spoons and balloons.  Balance the balloon on the spoon and be the first to make it to the finish line.  If it drops to the ground or bursts, they return to the start and try again.  If playing outside, you can fill the balloon with water!