Are the physio balls a part of S.M.A.R.T.?
No, the physio balls are not a part of S.M.A.R.T. but they can be used as a S.M.A.R.T. strategy. Asking kids to balance and giving them the sensory information is an important aspect of the S.M.A.R.T. program. Physio balls can provide an opportunity to positively impact important readiness skills, however, their use could be equated to our need for the sun. Some is needed and beneficial to our wellbeing but more is not better for you. Using a ball in place of a classroom chair works great in limited situations to focus attention, provide an outlet for the wiggles, to provide sensory feedback, and develop posture or core strength. Elementary and particularly early elementary or primary age children are intermittent exercisers. Physiologically they are set up to exercise intensely in short bursts. Asking a child to sit on an exercise ball and activate their skeletal muscle system for an extended period of time may be counter-intuitive. A great way to use the exercise or physio ball is in
