My Own Basketballs
Parent and child create paper basketballs by coloring and rolling paper, then practice throwing them into a bucket or hoop. The agent coaches the parent to observe fine motor skills in crayon grip, paper rolling coordination, and overhand throwing technique — building hand strength and coordination through creative play.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Sitting area with table or floor space for coloring. Standing area with bucket or basket placed 3-4 feet away. Paper and crayons within reach. Parent and child positioned facing each other for modeling.
How it works
- 1~45s
Start by inviting your child to choose a crayon to color with, and ask them to choose one for you too. As your child begins coloring the paper, watch how they holds the crayon. Is they using a tripod grip with thumb and two fingers, like holding a pencil? Or is they using a fist grip? Notice the position of their wrist and how they controls the coloring motion. Tell me what you observe about their grip.
Watch for: Child holds crayon with mature tripod grip (thumb and two fingers) with wrist extended, showing developing pencil control.
- 2~50s
Now show your child how to roll the colored paper between your hands to make a ball. Use both hands together with a circular motion, applying gentle pressure. Watch as your child tries to do the same. Does they coordinate both hands together? Can they maintain the circular rolling motion to form a tight ball, or does the paper stay loose? Notice how their hands work together and the amount of pressure they applies.
Watch for: Child coordinates both hands to roll paper into a ball using circular motions and appropriate pressure.
- 3~40s
Now for the basketball part! Place your bucket or basket a few feet away. Show your child how to throw the paper ball overhand — bringing both hands back behind the head and then forward together. Watch as your child attempts to throw. Does they use both hands together over their head? Does they step forward with one foot for balance? Notice the coordination between their arms, torso, and legs during the throw.
Watch for: Child throws ball overhand using both hands together with some body coordination.