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How do I improve ball skills in my child when he/she won’t
play catch with me?
Children may avoid ball games when they have been unsuccessful
in the past. In order to increase success, the focus of ball
games may need to be changed. For example, instead of playing
catch, see how far you can each throw the ball and try to beat
your best each time (you can use chalk to mark distance on the
sidewalk or sticks to mark distance in the grass). Part of the
fun in this game is retrieving the ball (you can run really
fast, hop, bear walk, crab walk, or walk backwards, etc.) Kids
really like it when you participate in the different ways to
get to the ball with them. You can also try different ways to
throw or roll the ball (e.g. throwing while jumping, rolling
between your legs, etc.).
Another strategy is to try throwing or kicking at targets. Begin
with large targets on the ground (such as a 5 gallon bucket
or a jump rope placed in a circle) and the child not too far
away
(2-3 feet). As your child’s success increases, increase
the challenge—make the target smaller or the distance
further.
In warmer weather you can add water to ball play by either using
water balloons or splash balls. These are fun to throw at walls
or the ground. Young children or children with tactile or noise
sensitivities may initially be fearful of being splashed when
attempting to catch the “ball” so let them experiment
and follow their lead as to when they are ready to get wet.
If it is important to you and your child that he/she learn specific
ball skills such as batting, you might try starting with a balloon.
Balloons move slowly and provide a large surface area to contact.
This often increases success. Be cautious with balloons around
young children and those with auditory sensitivities.
To help entice children who may not want to play ball you might
try a variety of balls—big, small, different colors, different
textures (rough, smooth, sticky, bumpy, etc.) balls that make
sound (e.g. Giggly wiggly), balloons or different weighted balls.
You also might try other objects like beanbags or stuffed animals.
Keep ball play light and fun. Have balls around the house or
in the backyard for an impromptu game and always be open to
your child’s creativity as to how to use the balls or
make up new games.
Have Fun!!!
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