Find the Balls Running Game
Parent hides plastic balls around a room and has child run to find them while observing running coordination and throwing skills. The agent coaches the parent to notice arm-leg opposition during running and overhand throwing technique — building gross motor coordination, muscle strength, and spatial awareness through active play.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Clear, safe space for running (indoor or outdoor). 8 plastic balls (or similar soft objects). A laundry basket, net, or container for collecting balls. Child should be wearing comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for running.
How it works
- 1~45s
First, have your child close their eyes or turn around while you hide the balls around the room. Spread them out so they will need to run to different areas. As you hide them, encourage your child to count out loud with you — this adds a cognitive element to the physical activity. When you're ready, say 'Go find the balls!' and watch your child take off. Focus on their running form — do you see their arms swinging in rhythm with their legs? Tell me what you notice about their running coordination.
Watch for: Child demonstrates coordinated running with opposite arm and leg movement — right arm forward when left leg steps forward.
- 2~50s
Now let's add a throwing element. Place the collection basket in the center of the room. When your child finds a ball, have them run back and throw it into the basket. Watch how they throws — does your child use both hands and bring the ball over their head before releasing? Notice if they steps forward with the opposite foot as they throws. The combination of running and throwing really challenges their coordination.
Watch for: Child uses two-handed overhand throw technique — brings ball behind head and releases forward with coordinated body movement.
- 3~60s
Let's do one more round with a focus on running control. This time, hide the balls in more challenging spots — maybe behind furniture or in corners. Watch how your child manages their running when they needs to change direction quickly or stop suddenly. Does they maintain balance when turning? Can they control their speed as they approaches a ball? Also notice their endurance — is they getting tired, or does they maintain energy throughout the search?
Watch for: Child demonstrates controlled running with ability to change direction, stop, and start without losing balance.