Here's What To Do
Find a "ball" that I can hold in one hand (like a tennis ball, rolled up socks, rolled up paper, or bean bag).
Set up a close "target" that I can aim towards. I might not be able to throw accurately or very far, but having something to aim for helps me know what to do. Example targets:
- a tower of empty cardboard boxes
- a box, bin, or towel on the floor
- you!
Model how to throw the ball toward the target.
Help me hold the ball underhand or overhand, and encourage me to throw.
- Many children learn how to throw underhand (like a bean bag toss) first, and overhand (like playing baseball) later.
- To help me throw the ball underhand, hold the top of the ball when you offer it to me. Model the underhand throwing motion.
- To help me throw the ball overhand, hold the bottom of the ball when you offer it to me. Model the overhand throwing motion.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Give me a big hug before we begin!
Engage:
- "Can you throw the ball into the box? Watch Mama, like this!"
- "Your turn! Throw the ball to me!"
Encourage:
- If I'm having a hard time balancing while throwing, try holding my hips. Or, help me throw from a seated position.
- I won't be able to throw with any kind of accuracy yet. At this age, I'm trying to learn how to release the ball from my hand in a way that moves the ball forward.
Reflect:
- Am I getting the hang of how to throw something?
Not quite ready?
Help me roll a large ball back and forth with both hands. Then, help me roll a smaller ball with one hand.
Ready for more?
Encourage me to throw a ball accurately into a box. If I am able to hit a target when throwing, try making the target farther away.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to throw a ball a short distance forward using an overhand arm motion. Their aim will likely not be accurate.