Balloon Tap and Catch Game

A balloon (any color)

A short ribbon to tie on the end (optional)

Blow up a balloon to about medium size. A slightly under-inflated balloon moves more slowly, which is perfect for toddlers.

Find an open area with no sharp furniture edges, ceiling fans, or breakable objects. Clear the space so everyone can move freely.

Tap the balloon gently upward toward your toddler. Balloons move in slow motion compared to balls, which gives little hands more time to react.

Encourage your toddler to tap it back. Say "Hit it up! Keep it in the air!" Any contact counts — a slap, a punch, a headbutt, all good.

Start counting out loud each time someone taps it: "One! Two! Three!" See how high you can count before it hits the floor.

When it hits the ground (and it will, a lot), just pick it up and start again cheerfully. No score to keep, just fun.

Try calling out body parts: "Now tap it with your elbow!" or "Use your head!" This adds a silly challenge and builds body awareness.

Tie a 12-inch ribbon to the balloon's knot. The ribbon gives your toddler something extra to grab if they can't quite tap it.

Balloons are the perfect first "ball" for toddlers because they move slowly and don't hurt when they bonk someone in the face. They're the best training tool for catching and striking skills.

Always supervise balloon play closely. Popped balloon pieces are a choking hazard. If the balloon pops, pick up every piece immediately.

A slightly under-inflated balloon floats more slowly and is easier for toddlers to hit. Over-inflated balloons pop more easily too.

For younger toddlers, just batting the balloon around is the goal. For older toddlers (2-3), you can start a simple back-and-forth volley.

Try playing this in a narrow hallway — the walls keep the balloon from floating away and your toddler gets more successful hits.