Catch and Count
What you need
- a big soft ball
How to do it
- Stand a few big steps apart on grass or in a clear room.
- Throw the ball to each other, counting each catch out loud.
- If it drops, start again from one and see how many you can get.
- Take a step back after five catches in a row.
Why it matters
Counting the catches turns throwing and catching into a game with a number to beat, and each step back makes it a little harder.
What they're learning
- Throwing and catching
- Sending the ball to you and getting hands ready for it coming back.
- Counting on
- One more number with every catch.
- Watching the ball
- Following it all the way into their hands.
What to look for
Notice them getting their hands ready before the ball arrives.
A tip
A big soft ball is easiest to catch. Throw gently and underarm, straight to their chest.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: roll the ball to each other, or stand closer
Harder: throw it with one bounce in between, or clap before catching
