You may have seen people walking on a slackline in a park.
Perhaps this has caught your attention. Hasn't it provoked you to think: I could try that too...!
Slacklining is a great way to develop new skills for adults and of course for children. Here's how to set up a slackline for kids.
WHY IS A SLACKLINE BENEFICIAL FOR CHILDREN?
MOVEMENT COMPETENCE
Slacklining offers a universal solution and allows you to explore and experience the effect of gravity for yourself. Methodically correct slackline training significantly improves the learning curve and enables every student to balance on the slackline in one or two lessons. Since balancing on a slackline is a coordination skill, comparable to swimming or skiing, it can bring long-term benefits outside of school lessons.
PERSONAL COMPETENCE
The ability to walk and balance on a slackline is often considered a skill that only people with a "special talent" can master. It is therefore very good for building confidence.
REFLECTIVE COMPETENCE
Technique, concentration and posture play a key role in slacklining. Proper handling leads to immediate and noticeable success: this permanently increases the motivation for further work on methodology, concentration and mental attitude.
All this while having fun, isn't it wonderful?
IS SLACKLINE DANGEROUS FOR CHILDREN?
Of course not, it just needs to be installed correctly. It must be at the right height in relation to the children. Too often people get discouraged with slackline, not because it is difficult but because they start with a slackline that is set up incorrectly for their level (like putting a child on an adult bike).
Make your environment safe with a slackline:
- Find solid anchors, such as strong trees (don't forget to wear appropriate clothing).
- Check the environment and reception area. There should be no stones or other dangerous obstacles. A neatly mowed lawn would be best.
- Don't place your line too high (knee height for children is perfect).
- The line should not be too long and should be stretched. A 3-4 m slackline is already too long for children.
- Lock your ratchet and add a ratpad for added security.
CAN WE TRAIN BY PLAYING SLACKLINE?
Here you have a video with a game proposal. They work with a slackrack or a classic children's slackline.
HOW TO ADAPT THE DIFFICULTY FOR CHILDREN?
If walking the line is too difficult, there are several reasons. First, the line may be too long and not tight enough. This is the first thing to fix.
Then there are other ways to facilitate practice:
+ Holding the hand or both hands of an adult or another child.
+ Establish a helpline above the slackline. It must be accessible to the child with arms up.
+ Use a base that rests on the ground, such as a walking stick.
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