Without effective transition from basic balance and sensory integration, learning and reading development can be significantly delayed.
Although balance maturation is not generally achieved in children until the age of 12, improving balance and sensory processing skills early in life will help children to excel and those with challenges or weaknesses (such as dyslexia, Down Syndrome, ADD and ADHD) improve dramatically.
Balance is the ability to maintain control of a particular body position whilst performing a given task with minimal postural sway. This could be achieved simply by sitting at a table, standing on one leg or riding a bike. Maintaining control of body positioning requires good static and dynamic balance, reducing the energy required to perform a host of tasks and activities whilst minimising fatigue.
Static balance is the ability to maintain control of a position whilst remaining stationary - for example, balancing on one leg or holding a headstand.
Dynamic balance is the ability to maintain balance and control of the body whilst moving, such as hopping, jumping, riding a bike or snowboarding.
Fundamental motor skills are the building blocks for engagement in physical activity and aid all aspects of the learning process. If these skills are underdeveloped in childhood, a child’s ability to participate in and enjoy physical activity can be greatly diminished. In practicing gross and fine motor skills, children not only gain intellectually, but also grow in strength, develop new skills and enjoy increased confidence levels in the face of new challenges.
Balance bikes promote symmetry, particularly with the upper body being encouraged to hold the handle bars steady whilst the lower part of the body is able to move freely and evenly. Balance, postural control and symmetry all help children develop the basic skills for any future physical activity.
Balance is vital to achieving success in almost every sport or physical activity and is fundamental in the process of learning to ride a bike. Through practice with balance equipment and balance bikes, children gain the ability and confidence needed to ride a pedal bike with confidence.
Once a Quick Quote has been received, please arrange for a Purchase Order to be e-mailed to info@balanceability.com.
When your Purchase Order has been received, an invoice will be sent back to you, which also includes a delivery date.
Balanceability offers the perfect solution to this gap in skill development. I was extremely impressed when I observed the course at one of my Bike It schools, as were the teachers and parents. For many pupils, it gave them the confidence and enthusiasm to practice their cycling at home with their families. I have seen a very high level of cycle competency from Reception pupils and throughout this school when running my events here.
I have also noticed that since the Balanceability training, more pupils come to school with balance bikes rather than bikes with stabilisers, which I much prefer because balance bikes develop the children's cycling skills much quicker and are more fun to use. Parents were very supportive of the training and it has helped me get them more involved with the Bike It project which is fantastic.
