Paper Towel Roll Balancers

Child and grown-up become circus balancers carrying a paper towel roll on their head, on an open palm or on their back while walking a line, passing it back and forth without dropping it. It works balance, posture control and focus, using something every kitchen has that doesn't hurt if it falls.

How to play

1. The teacher introduces "the balancers of the big circus" and shows how to carry the roll standing up on an open palm (1 min).
2. Each pair walks around the room with the roll on a palm; if it falls, pick it up and keep going (2 min).
3. Now the roll lies on your head: walk slowly, looking ahead, along a tape line (2 min).
4. Pair challenges: the grown-up gets on hands and knees, the child sets the roll on their back and guides them so it doesn't fall; then switch (3 min).
5. Pass the roll palm to palm without grabbing it, close at first, then one step farther apart (3 min).
6. Circus bow: bow with the roll on your head and catch it with your hands as it falls (1 min).

Rules

• The roll sits on your open palm, no grabbing.
• Walk slowly, looking ahead.
• If it falls, pick it up and keep going, no getting upset.
• When my grown-up carries the roll, I guide them carefully.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child carries the roll on a knee, armrest or wheelchair tray while their grown-up pushes.
• Visual impairment: walk along a wall or holding the grown-up's hand, with a bell inside the roll so they hear if it falls.
• Less dexterity: use a wider roll (double toilet paper) or a small cushion, which is more stable.

Learning goals

• Balance an object while walking.
• Control body posture and speed.
• Help and guide another person in a shared challenge.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Paper towel rolls: 25
• Painter's tape: 2

Teacher tip

Use new or nearly full rolls: empty ones are too light and fly off. At home, a small cereal box or a flat cushion works just as well.

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