GM.B.98 WALKS A 20 CM BOARD ON THE FLOOR ALTERNATING FEET, UNAIDED

This task narrows the walking base to a more mature width, requiring a more mature level of balance and co-ordination.

How to Assess

Materials: A board, 20 cm wide and 3 metres long.

Method: Place the board on a flat surface. Place your child at one end and stand at the other end, perhaps holding a favourite toy. Encourage your child to walk along the board. If she comes off the board, demonstrate walking the entire length and encourage her to try again. Score plus if your child walks the length of the board. She should place 1 foot on front of the other (alternating feet) rather than shuffling along.

How to Teach

Initially, your child may need some help to walk the board. Refer to GM.B.82 (walks a 20 cm board on the floor, aided) for ways of helping. Once she can walk the board with one hand held, steady her with a hand at her shoulder, or holding her clothing at the back, so that she grows used to walking the board with her hands free. Gradually reduce your support until your child is walking the board alone.

At the same time as you encourage independence, help your child, if necessary to alternate her feet. At first she may shuffle along the board, not putting alternate feet in front.

Include a balance board in your obstacle courses and look for suitable playground equipment, park benches and so one while you are out.