Game version
Try “Balloon Tennis” slow like a turtle, then quick like a bunny, then slow again. Giggles are part of the game.
Balloon Tennis
Tap a balloon up with a short racket or a paper-plate paddle. The balloon is slow, so a young child has time to watch and move.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Blow up a balloon (a grown-up ties it).
- Ages
- 4 to 6
- Time
- 3 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Balloon, short racket or paper-plate paddle
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Forehand
The steps
How it works
- Blow up a balloon (a grown-up ties it).
- Your child holds a short racket or paddle.
- They tap the balloon up and keep it in the air.
- Count the taps. Then tap it gently to you and back.
Coaching point
Praise the try: “You watched the balloon all the way!”
Safety: The tool stays low, and everyone else stands back, clear of the swing. A grown-up ties the balloon and picks up every piece if it pops (a choking risk).
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Story
You are on a space trip, and “Balloon Tennis” is how you move on the moon.
Practice makes progress
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