Balance Beams for Kids: the Ultimate Buyers Guide

Maybe you’ve been seeing cute wooden balance beams for kids on Instagram or have a child who would like to explore gymnastics. Either way, balance beams are a great addition to any play area and can be a great tool for fostering independent play!

Balance beams are not just an apparatus for gymnasts. They’re a fun and engaging way for children to develop essential physical and cognitive skills. I often use a balance beam and other gross motor toys, such as an indoor slide, in my preschool classroom to give kids a space to move inside.

The benefits of balance beams for kids are numerous, from enhancing coordination to boosting confidence.

In this post, I’ll delve into balance beams for kids, compare Montessori-inspired beams with those used in gymnastics, and offer insights to help you choose the perfect beam for your little one.

In this post:

• Benefits of Balance Beams for Kids
• Montessori-Inspired vs. Gymnastics Balance Beams
• Best Montessori Balance Beams for Kids
• Best Gymnastics Balance Beams for Kids
• Buying Considerations
• FAQs

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Benefits of Balance Beams for Kids

There are so many amazing benefits of balance beams. These include:

1. Motor Skill Development: Walking on a balance beam requires coordination and control, which are crucial for developing fine and gross motor skills. Kids build balance and coordination as they play on the balance beam.
2. Concentration and Focus: Maintaining balance necessitates concentration and helps children improve their focus.
3. Confidence and Self-esteem: As children master balancing, their confidence and self-esteem naturally soar. Kids love building new skills and are willing to try again and again.
4. Physical Fitness: Balance beams encourage kids to be active, promoting overall physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Kids need indoor spaces where they can move their bodies!
5. Joy: Playing on a balance beam can be lots of fun for kids! Joy should never be minimized in favor of more concrete skills. It is essential for mental health and happiness.

Montessori-Inspired vs. Gymnastics Balance Beams

When looking for a balance beam, you’ll come across wooden Montessori-inspired balance beams, and padded gymnastics balance beams. Both have benefits and what you pick will be determined by your needs.

Montessori-Inspired Balance Beams

Montessori-inspired balance beams are designed based on the principles of the Montessori method, which emphasizes independence, respect, and a natural developmental pace.

These beams are typically:

• Made of natural materials like wood.
• Closer to the ground to minimize the risk of injury.
• Designed for daily use in various activities, not just balancing.

They’re excellent for encouraging self-directed and experiential learning.

Gymnastics Balance Beams

Gymnastics balance beams, on the other hand, are geared more toward athletic training and skill development in the sport of gymnastics.

They’re:

• Raised higher off the ground.
• Padded and covered with leather or synthetic material for safety.
• Designed to meet specific standards for competition.

While they offer a professional experience for aspiring gymnasts, they may not be suitable for casual use or very young children due to their height and rigidity.

• Looking for additional ways to get kids moving inside? Check out my favorite foldable pikler triangles and dinosaur slides!

Best Montessori Balance Beams for Kids

The Wild Kids Wood Balance Beam is the quintessential playtime accessory that blends learning with boundless fun. Crafted from high-quality Baltic birch wood, this Montessori-inspired toy gives kids a space indoors to foster coordination and gross motor skills.

Each piece of the set has a smooth, finely sanded finish, ensuring the safety of tender feet during play. The edges are rounded, and the surfaces are sealed with child-safe natural oil, highlighting the wood’s inherent beauty and ensuring durability through countless hours of play.

You can create the ideal set for your space with the option to buy 2 to 10 planks. Kids can configure their own courses, promoting creativity and problem-solving skills while they hop, step, and balance their way along the beams. This provides endless opportunities for imaginative play and physical activity.

The set’s eco-friendly design resonates with the conscious parent, assuring you that your child’s playtime is enriching and kind to the planet. Each beam’s natural wood grain is unique, making your set one-of-a-kind.

The “Little Gymnast” by Lily & River is a simple balance beam for kids known for its quality. It’s fashioned from the finest birch hardwood and promises not just hours of fun but a foundation for skill development that will benefit your child for years to come.

The “Little Gymnast” balance beam is engineered to foster self-confidence, enhance gross motor skills, promote muscle growth, and refine balance control. The beam is low to the ground and stable, making it perfect for children aged 18 months to 8 years.

Each beam is finished with a baby-friendly sealant, ensuring your child’s play environment is free from harmful substances. Furniture-grade anti-slip pads provide extra peace of mind. These pads secure the beam firmly in place whether your child is engaging in indoor gymnastics or exploring balance in the garden.

The lightweight design makes it portable, transforming any space into a playful gymnasium. When playtime is over, the beam’s clever design allows for flat storage, ensuring your space remains uncluttered.

While it can be used outside, the beam must be brought back inside at the end of each day.

Specifications:

• Height: 6 inches
• Width: 4 inches
• Length: 58 inches
• Recommended Age: 18 months to 8 years

Introduce your little explorer to balance and imaginative play with the Montessori Toddler Wooden Balance Beam 6 Pcs Set. Each piece is made from high-quality birch plywood and beech wood, ensuring durability and safety for your child’s everyday adventures.

The set comes with 6 balancers that can be stacked, offering a variety of ways to set up and play. Whether it’s a straight path, a curvy trail, or a challenging zigzag, your child can configure the beams to their liking, enhancing their spatial awareness and motor skills.

Safety is paramount; this set reflects that with its use of non-toxic, water-based varnish and paints. The edges are smoothly rounded to prevent any minor scrapes or bumps during playtime. Designed for children aged 1 to 6 years, the balance beam set supports a wide range of developmental stages, making it a long-lasting addition to your child’s play area.

Not only does the set promote physical activities like balancing, jumping, and stepping, but it also encourages creativity. Your child can use these beams as a stage for their toys, a track for their cars, or even as imaginary crocodile-infested waters. The play possibilities are endless!

The set comes in two color options and is easy to assemble.

Specifications:

• Height: 4.82 inches
• Width: 5.5 inches
• Recommended Age: 1 to 6 year olds
• Weight Limit: 60 kg

Best Gymnastics Balance Beams for Kids

Kids can enhance their gymnastic skills at home with the FBSPORT 10ft Balance Beam. This professional-grade training tool is designed for aspiring gymnasts and seasoned athletes alike, offering a perfect combination of stability, durability, and safety.

The beam comes in 3 lengths (8, 9, or 10 feet), providing ample space for practicing complex routines and perfecting techniques. The beam’s core is constructed from high-density EVA foam, offering a firm yet cushioned surface that promotes confidence with every step, leap, and landing.

The balance beam is covered in a premium synthetic suede material, providing a competition-like feel and superior grip to prevent slips and ensure a secure footing during training sessions. The bottom of the beam is covered in non-slip rubber.

FBSPORT Balance Beam is lightweight and portable, and it folds in half for easy transportation and storage. Its low-profile design makes it ideal for home gyms, ensuring safety without compromising the quality of your practice.

Specifications:

• Height: 2.2 inches
• Width: 4 inches
• Length: 8, 9, or 10 feet
• Weight: 5 pounds

The FBSPORT 8 ft Adjustable Balance Beam offers the perfect combination of durability, flexibility, and professional-grade design. This top-of-the-line balance beam is crafted to meet the needs of both budding gymnasts and seasoned professionals, making it an indispensable addition to your child’s training setup.

The beam’s robust wooden core promises unwavering stability and long-lasting performance. Its surface is covered with a suede-like material, offering a soft yet grippy texture that mimics the feel of professional beams. This ensures kids’ feet stay securely in place with every pivot, leap, and landing.

The standout feature of this beam is its adjustable height. With a simple adjustment mechanism, you can tailor the beam’s height to your specific training needs – lower it for foundational practice and basic routines or elevate it for a more challenging workout as your skills advance. This versatility makes the beam suitable for gymnasts at any stage of their journey.

The 8-foot-long beam has a 4-inch-wide balancing surface, offering ample space for a range of gymnastic maneuvers. The base is fitted with non-slip rubber pads, ensuring it stays firmly in place on any indoor surface.

This beam is heavy and can not be folded up for storage, so it is best suited for those looking to set up a dedicated training space.

Specifications:

• Height Settings: 6.9, 15.2, 18.3, 20.5, 21.9 inches
• Width: 4 inches
• Length: 8 feet
• Weight: 44 pounds

Buying Considerations

Here are some things to consider as you pick the best balance beam for your kids:

• Safety: Safety is paramount. Look for beams with a non-slip base and rounded edges. The beam’s height and stability are also critical, especially for younger children.
• Material: Durability is key. Wooden beams are sturdy and offer a natural aesthetic, while foam beams provide cushioning and are lightweight.
• Age Appropriateness: Ensure the beam suits your child’s age and skill level. Montessori beams are generally more suitable for younger children, while gymnastics beams cater to older kids.
• Space: Consider the available space. Some beams are foldable or modular, offering flexibility and easy storage.
• Price: Balance beams come in a range of prices. Determine your budget, but remember that quality and safety should not be compromised for the sake of cost.

FAQS

1. At what age can my child start using a balance beam?

Children as young as 18 months can begin using a low, Montessori-inspired balance beam under supervision. However, gymnastics beams are typically recommended for kids aged 4 and up.

Allow babies and toddlers to explore the beam however they would like and to try balancing when they feel comfortable. They are building their skills as they climb over, scoot along, and explore the beam.

2. How long should a balance beam be for home use?

Home balance beams generally range from 4 to 8 feet in length. When choosing, consider your available space and the child’s skill level. Many sizes are available.

3. Can balance beams be used outdoors?

While some balance beams are designed for indoor and outdoor use, it is generally best to bring them back inside at the end of each play session. This extends the life of the balance beam by keeping it out of the elements.

If you wish to use your balance beam outside often, look for lightweight designs that are easy to move.

4. How do I maintain and clean a balance beam?

Wipe wooden beams with a dry cloth to remove dust. For padded beams, use a mild cleaner and a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals to preserve the material.

5. Where should I place the balance beam in my home?

Place the balance beam in a clear, open area with plenty of space around it. The surface should be flat and stable. Avoid areas near furniture or sharp objects to minimize the risk of injury if a fall occurs.

6. Can balance beams be adjusted for height?

Some balance beams are adjustable, allowing the height to be increased as your child grows and improves their skills. Adjustable beams are great for longevity and can accommodate various skill levels.

Before use, ensure that any adjustable mechanism is secure and that the beam is stable at all heights.

7. What is the recommended width for a balance beam for kids?

A balance beam width of 4 to 6 inches is typically recommended for home use and younger children. This width provides a safe platform for children to walk on while still presenting a challenge for balance.

Competition beams used in gymnastics are usually 4 inches wide.

8. How can I ensure the balance beam is stable and won’t tip over?

Look for balance beams with a sturdy base and anti-slip pads or rubber feet. These features help to keep the beam stable during use. Additionally, placing the beam on a non-slip surface or exercise mat can provide extra stability and safety.

9. What safety precautions should I take when my child uses a balance beam?

Always supervise your child, especially if they are young or new to using a balance beam. Provide a safe environment by placing the beam on a flat, stable surface and ensuring adequate padding or a soft landing area around the beam.

10. Can I make my own DIY balance beam for my kids?

Yes! If you’re feeling handy, you can make your own DIY balance beam. This is an excellent option if you’re looking to add a balance beam to your backyard space. Charleston Crafted has a simple DIY balance beam tutorial if you want guidance.

You can even just give kids loose parts like old tires and planks and let them configure their own balance beams!

• Looking for more Montessori-inspired ideas? Check out my guide to Montessori floor beds!

Final Thoughts

Incorporating a balance beam into your child’s playtime isn’t just about fostering future gymnasts; it’s about crafting an environment that nurtures holistic development.

Whether you choose a Montessori-inspired beam for young kids or a gymnastics beam for athletic training, your child’s growth and development benefits are boundless.

Remember to consider safety, material, age appropriateness, space, and price when making your purchase, and you’ll be well on your way to providing an enriching and enjoyable experience for your little one.