Balance is a game of dexterity and flexibility. Pairs attempt to move their partners off their center of gravity, causing individuals to take a step forward or back in order to regain their balance. The activity is played with partners facing each other, hand-to-hand, and involves gentle pushes and retreats. The only measure of success is how much fun participants are having!

In the following course you will learn how to properly set-up and facilitate the activity and then if you wish, move students through an academic and/or social skills development reflection experience.

*This activity has been adapted from the Ice Breakers & Openers CD-ROM of The Inspire! Youth Series from LearningChange, LLC.

Age
Balance is a perfect for 4th grade and above. Remember, this activity requires physical movement so it important that you guide your students in instruction and safety precautions.

Group Size
Any even numbered group size works for Balance. Since this activity requires pairs make sure no student is left out of the activity.

Setting
Any open, obstacle-free setting is appropriate for this activity.

Duration
This activity should take about 10 minutes to complete with your group. Budget more time if you wish to go into depth by using any of the extension activities or questions.

General

In Balance, group memebers will:

• Be energized through play and laughter.
• Develop a confidence in their partner.
• Keep physically moving for 10-15 minutes.
  
• Think about strategy and confidence, characteristics that can be taken into any higher-order activity.
  

Academic Standards & Asset Development

For specific academic and social development lessons for this activity, see the Academic Extensions and Social Extensions sections in this module.