TinyStepper
Child leaping between floor cushions in a living room obstacle course

Balloon Volleyball

Bat a balloon back and forth without letting it touch the ground.

Activity details

2y–4y10 minshighindoorBalloonsBlankets

Instructions

Get ready
  • Inflate a balloon and tie it off securely
  • Clear the play area of fragile items
  1. Inflate a balloon and tie it off securely
  2. Clear the play area of fragile items
  3. Show your child how to bat the balloon upward with open hands
  4. Count how many times you can hit it before it touches the ground
  5. Try using different body parts: head, elbow, knee
  6. For multiple kids, stand in a circle and take turns hitting
  7. Add a 'net' by draping a blanket over two chairs
  8. Always supervise closely and discard any popped balloon pieces immediately

Parent tip

Set out balloons and blankets before inviting your toddler in so the first minute feels smooth.

Child smiling on a cushion after active play with a ball and scattered cushions nearby

What success looks like

Flushed cheeks, big smiles, and a calmer child afterwards. If they want to do it again, you’ve found a winner.

Balloons move slowly through the air, giving toddlers extra time to track, reach, and hit — something a regular ball cannot offer. This builds hand-eye coordination and visual tracking while providing a cardio workout as children leap and dive to keep the balloon aloft. Playing together introduces turn-taking, and the silliness of chasing a floating balloon keeps everyone engaged.

Why it helps

Balloons move slowly enough for toddlers to track and hit, building hand-eye coordination and visual tracking. The collaborative goal of keeping the balloon up teaches turn-taking and teamwork, while the physical activity provides a good indoor cardio workout. The EYFS framework emphasises that social skills develop best through play with others, where children can practise cooperation without the pressure of getting it right.

Variations

  • Draw a face on the balloon and give it a name for imaginative play.
  • Use paper plate 'racquets' to bat the balloon back and forth.
  • Play with multiple balloons to increase the challenge for older toddlers.

Safety tips

  • Balloons are a serious choking hazard — supervise constantly.
  • Dispose of any popped balloon fragments immediately.
  • Use a balloon cover or soft fabric ball for children who tend to put things in their mouth.

Want to try another?

Balloon Keep-Up

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