Back and Throw
Parent plays a throwing game with child where they walk backwards to increase distance from a target box. The agent coaches the parent to observe backward walking coordination, balance during movement, and throwing accuracy — building gross motor skills, spatial awareness, and motor planning.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Open space with soft surface (carpet, mat). Container (box, basket) placed on floor. Several soft balls or substitute objects (rolled socks, soft toys) nearby. Parent and child standing near container.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by standing right next to the box with your child. Show them how to throw a ball into the box from this close distance. Now take one small step backward together, holding hands if your child needs support. Encourage your child to walk backward with you — you can say 'Let's take a step back!' Watch how your child moves. Does they take a confident backward step, or does they need to look down or feel unsure? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Child attempts to walk backward with some coordination, either independently or with minimal support.
- 2~35s
Now let's increase the challenge. Take two more steps backward together, creating a narrow 'path' with your feet — almost like walking on a balance beam. Encourage your child to stay in line as you move back. Watch their balance. Does your child wobble or step sideways? Or does they maintain a straight backward path? Notice how they adjusts their body to stay upright while moving in this unfamiliar direction.
Watch for: Child maintains balance while walking backward along a somewhat narrow or defined path.
- 3~40s
Now you're a few steps back from the box. Hand your child a ball and encourage them to throw it toward the box. Watch the sequence: does your child remember to throw after walking back, or get distracted by the movement? Notice their throwing accuracy — does they aim with intention? Also watch if your child holds the ball securely while walking back or drops it accidentally. Tell me what you observe.
Watch for: Child completes a motor sequence: walking backward, then throwing with some accuracy, showing planning and coordination.