Control the Ball
Here's What To Do
1
Play simple ball games with your child.
2
You can:
- Sit and roll the ball to each other.
- Stand and kick the ball to each other.
- Throw the ball gently to each other.
3
It’s ok if your child needs support catching, kicking or rolling the ball, they’re just learning!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Hold onto each other as you take turns pointing and flexing your feet; stretch your arms up and reach for the sky on your tiptoes.
E
Engage:
- “Let’s play a game together with this ball.”
- “Do you want us to roll the ball, throw the ball or kick the ball?”
E
Encourage:
- Decrease the distance between you and your child, and roll or throw the ball more gently.
- Model how to catch, kick and throw the ball. “Look at how I hold out my hands to help me catch the ball. You try.”
R
Reflect:
- “Show me how you like to play with a ball.”
Not quite ready?
Select one game to practice a few times before trying another ball game.
Ready for more?
Begin to introduce soccer by moving slowly while also trying to kick or catch the ball.
As your child masters this skill...
They will develop coordination of objects like balls while playing.