#1-09684
PelletzBall™ Activity Guide
by Cecilia Cruse, MS, OTR/L
Introduction
Squish It! Smash It! Cuddle up in it! Our new Abilitations Creation, the
PelletzBall, was designed for multi-purpose use. The outer skin is made
of roto molded PVC that is ever so soft and pliable, while the inside is
filled with thousands of Styrofoam pellets for texture and support.
Choose from our 30% or 60% filled balls for positioning, balance, soft
play, and sensory input. Here are a few of our favorite activity ideas to
get started.
Activities for the PelletzBall™
• For wonderful deep-pressure input, have the child lie tummy down
on the floor or mat, and place the 60%-filled PelletzBall on the child’s
back. Squish the ball into the child’s back, applying deep-pressure
strokes through the top of the ball.
• Place the 30%-filled ball over a regular therapy ball for additional
support and sensory input. Have the child snuggle into the PelletzBall while on top of the regular therapy ball, and rock gently to
work on core stability, righting and equilibrium reactions.
• Practice standing balance with either size ball. Have the child get in the center of the ball and work on compressions (gently
shifting weight from left foot to right foot), or just work on maintaining balance while standing or tall kneeling. Be sure to have
an adult nearby for standby assistance.
• For strengthening, bilateral play and deep-pressure input, have two or more children hold, throw or swing the balls in pillowlike fashion for a “Pelletz fight.” Play in a large space featuring plenty of mats or cushions for safety.
• As part of a good motor obstacle course, line up two or more PelletzBalls and have the child climb or jump into the pile of balls,
then roll off to the other side.
• Use PelletzBall in a ball pit or sensory pit to support vestibular or movement work. Children can fall off a “zipline” or trapeze
into a pile of PelletzBalls below.
• Use with scooter boards … kids come down a ramp and crash into a wall of PelletzBalls!
Modifications
Use the 60%-filled PelletzBall as a replacement for a standard beanbag chair for better fit, comfort and molding around the child’s
body. Great for circle time!
For smaller children and those with more severe motor impairments, the Pelletzball serves as a great supplement for alternate
positioning. Place the child in a supported sitting position or sidelying position in the 30% or 60%-filled ball.
Care & Safety
Supervise children when using the Pelletzball in play and balance. The PelletzBall is latex free and made of a PVC plastic “skin”
filled with Styrofoam balls. Avoid sharp objects or any puncturing of the ball’s surface. Clean the PelletzBall with a mild soap and
water cloth, or a disinfectant wipe. Recommended for children ages 3 and up.