An inflatable ball is a plastic ball filled with air, often referred to as a beach ball. Inflatable balls come in a variety of sizes and are used mainly for recreational purposes. An inflation valve is used to pump the ball with air. Since they are filled with air, the balls are lightweight and simple to propel. Traditional inflatable balls are multicolored but some feature company logos or advertise products.
No matter how the ball is decorated, it can be used for a variety of beach and swimming pool games. People enjoy tossing beach balls to one another, floating them in the water, and other types of casual play. They are easy to handle and safe to use; therefore, they are used by people of all ages.
An inflatable ball can also be utilized for educational purposes. Some teachers take a beach ball and write math problems or basic subject questions on it with a marker. They might have a question about social studies, science, or addition. The teacher will then throw the beach ball to a particular student in the classroom.
When a student catches the ball, she must answer a question on the ball. The question she answers must be the one resting beneath her left thumb, right hand, or some predetermined spot. Using an inflatable ball as a lesson review tool is a good way to get students actively engaged in the learning process. It makes the lesson fun and involves physical activity.
Physical education teachers may use large inflatable balls for group activities. They can instruct their students to sit in a circle on the floor and roll or throw the giant beach ball within the circle in order to practice teamwork skills. Two or three students may stand or run in the center of the circle as they try to avoid getting hit by the inflatable ball.
Recreational workers in retirement homes and institutions for the mentally or physically disabled can use an inflatable ball for activities as well. One game therapists can try with their patients involves a form of volleyball. Participants sit in chairs and take turns propelling the ball around the room as they seek to keep the inflatable ball aloft. This type of activity promotes team work, problem solving, and encourages physical activity.
Parents can use a beach ball in order to interact with a baby. Sample activities include rolling the baby back and forth on the ball, helping her slide down it, allowing her to reach for it as it rolls across the floor, bouncing her on top of it, and other activities that foster gross motor skills and strengthen muscles. This inexpensive toy can help parents incorporate physical activities with their children within the home or even outside in the backyard.
