My Own Basketballs III
Parent and child create paper basketballs by coloring and rolling paper, then practice throwing them into a bucket or makeshift hoop. The agent coaches the parent to observe fine motor skills in ball-rolling and whole-body coordination during throwing — building hand strength, bilateral coordination, and motor planning.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Open floor space for throwing. Paper and crayons available. Bucket, laundry basket, or box placed 3-5 feet away. Parent and child seated or standing at a table or on the floor.
How it works
- 1~45s
Start by inviting your child to choose a crayon for themself and one for you. Say 'Let's make our own basketballs!' As your child begins coloring the paper, notice how they holds the crayon. Is they using a writing grip — fingers near the tip, thumb and index finger working together? Then, show your child how to roll the colored paper between your palms to make a ball. Watch closely as your child tries to roll their own paper ball. Does they use both hands together in a coordinated way? Tell me what you see.
Watch for: Child uses both hands to roll paper into a ball, demonstrating coordinated palm and finger movements.
- 2~40s
Now it's time to play basketball! Place your bucket or hoop a few feet away. Show your child how to throw your paper ball — step forward, swing your arm, and release. Watch as your child throws. Does they use their whole body to aim? Look for weight shifting from back foot to front, arm movement across the body, and follow-through. Even if they misses, notice the coordination. What do you observe?
Watch for: Child uses coordinated body movements when throwing — shifts weight, rotates torso, and moves arm with intention toward target.
- 3~50s
Let's keep playing, but this time encourage your child to adjust their approach. If they missed, ask 'How can we get it in?' Maybe take a step closer or try a different arm angle. Notice if your child problem-solves — does they change their stance, throw softer, or aim differently? Also, watch their hands during ball retrieval — does they use a precise pincer grip to pick up small paper balls? We're looking for adaptive motor skills and refined hand control.
Watch for: Child uses both hands cooperatively in complex tasks — stabilizing with one hand while manipulating with the other, or adjusting grip based on task.