GM.B.97 STANDS ON ONE FOOT FOR 3 SECONDS

Controlled walking requires the ability to balance on 1 foot for at least 3 seconds. This skill is also useful for dressing and undressing.

How to Assess

Method: Ask your child to lift 1 foot and count to 3. Repeat for other foot. Score plus if your child balances on each foot for 3 seconds.

How to Teach

This skill requires very good hip control and very good balance. If your child finds this skill difficult, check her balance skills in the Prewalking Sequence (GM.A.), and also ensure that she can manage the exercises at the beginning of this sequence, particularly Step Standing.

Use songs about standing on 1 leg (you can always make them up).

Practise this skill at dressing time, when it has a very practical application.