How to Teach a Cartwheel

You can practice tumbling with your children at home if you have enough space. It doesn't take much. Here are some pointers for teaching kids how to do a cartwheel.

Things You'll Need

  • Mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Have your child stand with legs just past shoulder width apart with arms extended over head like an "X." Your child should be standing sideways on the mat with his arms and legs extended fully. The arms must be straight to support your child in a cartwheel.

    • 2

      Start with your child rocking from one foot to the other like a rocking chair. This teaches him to use momentum. Count out 3 rocks before he kicks into the cartwheel.

    • 3

      Spot your child by standing or kneeling behind him. If your child is doing a right-handed cartwheel, place your left hand on his right side at the waist. Cross your right hand over your left and place it on his left side at the waist. Both of your thumbs should be towards his back, with your fingers towards the front.

    • 4

      Hold her at the waist as she begins rocking. It helps to count to 3 as she rocks back and forth. On 3, she places her right hand down followed by her left hand and kicks up to the ceiling. As she rotates, rotate your hands with her. Make sure to pull up to support her.

    • 5

      Make sure that once his hands are on the mat, his legs spread apart again like an "X." As he lands, his left leg comes down first, followed by his right leg. He finishes by bringing his arms back up to the starting point.