Name Ball Catch
What you need
- a big soft ball
How to do it
- Stand in a circle with the family, a few big steps apart.
- Say a person's name, then throw the ball gently to them. They catch it, say a new name and throw it on.
- When your child has the ball, help them look at the person they've chosen and call their name before they throw.
- Take a step back each time everyone catches, and a step closer after a drop.
Why it matters
A name called first gives the catcher a moment to get ready, and the ball goes round the circle so everyone gets a turn to throw and catch.
What they're learning
- Throwing and catching
- Two hands out, eyes on the ball.
- Waiting for a turn
- The ball comes round to everyone in the end.
- Calling a name
- Looking at someone and saying their name before throwing.
What to look for
Notice them holding their arms out ready before the ball is thrown.
A tip
A big soft ball is easiest to catch. Play on grass, or push the furniture back indoors.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: roll the ball along the ground instead of throwing it
Harder: say something about the person, like their favourite colour, before you throw
