22mo–3y10 minOutdoorActive playSocial play
Big Ball Buddy Co-op
A rolling-and-throwing game that helps two children cooperate, take turns, and enjoy doing something together with simple shared goals.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a large soft ball (or a cushion/rolled-up blanket to roll)
- a clear floor space or patch of grass
- 2 markers (tape, cushions, or shoes) to show where to sit/stand
Nice to have
- a box or laundry basket as a target
- 3-5 plastic cups or empty containers to knock over
Movement level: mild
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneTakes turns in simple games with adult supportHeart· 20mo–3.3y· core· Steps 1, 2
- MilestoneCooperative peer playHeart· 2.7y–3.8y· stretch
- MilestoneEngages reciprocally with peersHeart· 10mo–22mo· core
- MilestoneCooperates and shares with peersHeart· 3y–5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneWaits for needs or turnsHeart· 2.5y–5y· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneShows interest in peer playHeart· 14mo–2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneJoins other children in playHeart· 2.3y–3.2y· core
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Provide resources that promote cooperation between two children such as a big ball to roll or throw to each other.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)