Objectives
Learn to control arm movement and strength. As children get older and gain confidence, they will also be able to work on their aim.
Needs
Ball, a target (i.e. a cup, bowling pin, or water bottle), hoop or something to make a circle (i.e. string, chalk, or tape), and an open space where you can throw.
Set Up
Set up a target and a hoop 5’ away to start. Move target and hoop farther as skills improve
Directions
- First, start out with just learning how to throw. Do not worry about the target. There are two types of throws:
- Overhand: bring arm up and behind your head, swing arm in a forward motion, and release the ball.
- Underhand: relax arm at your side and pull back, swing your arm forward and release the ball.
- Now, it is time to try to work on aim by using the hoop. Complete 10 overhand and 10 underhand throws with a goal of getting the ball in the hoop. For an older child, put the hoop further back than 5’. As you add more distance, work on stepping with the opposite foot to get more power.
- Next, children will be able to work on their aim while trying to throw a ball to a specific object. Start with throwing overhand 10 times and then move to throwing underhand.
Throughout this activity, feel free to adjust the distance or the type of ball. Younger children may want to use a small soft ball, while older children can use a slightly heavier ball. These skills can also be worked on with a partner, and children can work on catching and throwing in one activity. Remind your children to keep their eyes on their targets to help improve their aim.
Challenge: Set up multiple targets and make it a game to see who can throw a ball and knock down all their targets first.
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