Balloon Keep-Up Challenge

What you need

• Balloon, 1, latex-free if needed

How to do it

Grown-up prep: Blow up and tie one balloon yourself, then clear a small open space away from sharp corners and breakables. Choking warning: balloons and broken balloon pieces are a choking hazard. Keep the balloon in your care, never let kids put it in their mouths, and if it pops, pick up every piece and throw them away right away. Latex warning: most balloons are latex, so skip this game or use a latex-free balloon if anyone playing has a latex allergy.

1. A grown-up blows up the balloon, ties it tight, and checks it. A grown-up does this
2. Find an open spot and stretch your arms wide. Nothing to bump!
3. Toss the balloon up and catch it a few times.
4. Tap the balloon up with your hands. Count each tap out loud.
5. New rule from Ollie: elbows only! Keep tapping and counting.
   Ask: Is it easier or harder with your elbows? What do you have to do differently?
6. Next rule: head only! Gently bop the balloon up and keep counting.
7. Compare your scores. Which round got the most taps?
   Ask: Which body part was the trickiest, and why do you think so?
8. If the balloon pops, freeze while a grown-up picks up every piece. A grown-up does this
9. Now play again, or invite a friend! How many taps can you reach together?
   Ask: What silly new rule will you add next time?

Play it again

• Body part boss: call out a new body part every five taps, like hands, elbows, head or knees.
• Team tap: take turns tapping with a friend and count one big number together.
• Beat the beeper: a grown-up sets a timer and you try to keep the balloon up until it beeps.